Sample Collection Device with Retaining Space for POCT
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample collection methods for point of care testing (POCT) face challenges such as the need for technical expertise, instability in quantitative precision due to fluctuating sample flow and viscosity, and the risk of contamination and coagulation of samples, especially when using capillaries or precision balances.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device comprising a sample collection unit with a contact surface that presses against the skin to collect a sample, a retaining space that holds a predetermined amount of sample due to surface tension, and a grip for easy handling, which allows for efficient and precise collection of samples without the need for specialized techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a capillary is used to collect sample, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to breakage risk and difficulty in controlling sample amount
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the sample collection function into two separate components: a puncture unit for creating the puncture and a collection unit with a specified volume chamber for collecting the sample. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the collection unit providing precise volume control through its designed chamber capacity rather than relying on operator skill with capillaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a disposable puncture unit that is discarded after single use, eliminating the need for complex sterilization and handling procedures associated with reusable capillaries. This disposable approach maintains ease of operation while ensuring reliable, consistent sample collection without the breakage risks of glass capillaries.
2Manufacturing precision
If a precision balance is used to measure sample amount, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to sensitivity to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical precision balance system with a volumetric collection chamber that relies on surface tension and capillary action to collect a precise sample amount. This substitution eliminates the need for environmental stability required by precision balances, as the collection process is based on physical principles (surface tension, capillary action) that are less sensitive to vibrations, temperature, and humidity variations.
3Manufacturing precision
If three separate steps (pressing, collecting, processing) are performed to collect and process sample, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to extended time causing sample coagulation
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the pressing and collecting steps into a single integrated action. The collection unit is positioned to contact the puncture site directly, allowing sample to be collected immediately upon puncture without requiring a separate pressing step. This integration maintains precise sample collection while significantly reducing the time required, preventing sample coagulation and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection unit is pre-configured with a specified volume chamber designed to automatically collect the required sample amount through capillary action and surface tension. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual measurement and processing steps, as the device is already configured to collect the precise amount needed for analysis, thereby speeding up the overall process while maintaining precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enables easy, precise, and cost-effective collection of a predetermined sample amount, reducing the risk of contamination and coagulation, and improving quantitative precision, thus facilitating prompt and accurate analysis in POCT settings.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining space having an opening on the contact surface, and configured to retain in the retaining space a predetermined amount of sample due to surface tension of the sample
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection device includes a sample collection unit. The sample collection unit has a contact surface, a retaining space, and an outer surface. The contact surface is capable of being in contact with a surface having a sample outflow hole of a subject. The retaining space has an opening on the contact surface. In the sample collection device, the retaining space stores a predetermined amount of the sample due to the surface tension of the sample, the predetermined amount of the sample being obtained from the sample flowing out of the sample outflow hole when the contact surface is pressed on the surface around the sample outflow hole.