Sample Collection Apparatus with Integrated Preservative Reservoir
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological sample collection devices require users to manually add preservatives, which can lead to user error, safety risks, and complexity, especially in home-use and point-of-care applications, and are not compatible with automated processing systems.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection apparatus with a container and cap design that automatically combines a biological sample with a preservative reagent by piercing a membrane when the cap is twisted on, ensuring aseptic addition and compatibility with automated systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users manually add preservative separately using dose ampules, then the preservative can be added to the sample, but user error and safety risks increase due to handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the preservative container and the sample collection device into a single integrated unit. The preservative is stored in a reservoir within the same device that collects the biological sample, eliminating the need for separate handling of dose ampules and reducing user error through automated preservative addition upon cap engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs the preservative addition function automatically when the cap is engaged with the container. The system self-regulates the preservative release through mechanical engagement of the cap, eliminating the need for user intervention in the preservative addition process and ensuring consistent, error-free operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate preservative containers are used, then the system can function, but device complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into a single integrated device structure. The container, preservative reservoir, piercing mechanism, and cap are merged into one cohesive unit, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single structure: sample collection, preservative storage, automated preservative addition, and sample preservation. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate devices for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If manual preservative handling is required, then the process can be completed, but automation compatibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically performs the preservative addition function through mechanical engagement of the cap with the container. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual intervention and creates an automated process that can be integrated into high-throughput sample processing systems, significantly improving productivity and automation compatibility.
4Reliability
If chemical-based preservatives are used in separate containers, then preservation can be achieved, but safety risks increase for home-use applications
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the preservative reservoir within the sealed container structure, the invention eliminates the need for users to handle separate chemical preservative containers. The preservative remains enclosed until automated release upon cap engagement, significantly reducing safety risks associated with chemical handling in home-use settings while maintaining preservation effectiveness.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An apparatus for collecting and combining a sample, and in particular, a biological sample, with a reagent, and uses thereof. The apparatus comprises a sample collection container and a complementary sealing cap. A sealed reagent reservoir containing a reagent, such as a preservative reagent, is provided in a lower portion of the collection container. A piercing insert is nested within the collection container, above the seal of the reagent reservoir. Following the collection of the sample into the collection container, the action of sealing the collection container with the cap causes the piercing insert to engage with and disrupt the seal on the reagent reservoir, thereby exposing the collected sample to the reagent.