Integrated Sample Preparation Device with Dynamic Valve Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation techniques are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to contamination due to reliance on human error and single-direction fluid flow filters, which are not suitable for efficient processing and concentration of samples for bio-assays, especially in point-of-care settings.
Innovation Solution
A sample preparation device with distinct passages and valves allowing unidirectional fluid flow, integrated with a syringe for both intake and output motions, and equipped with filters and retention members to reduce concomitant components and enrich desired sample components, ensuring safe injection into microfluidic devices without excessive pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple filters are used in sequence for sample preparation, then sample purification and concentration improve, but device complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple filtration functions into a single integrated device body with multiple internal passages. Each passage contains its own filter and valve system, allowing sequential filtration through different pore sizes without requiring multiple separate filters or manual reconfiguration. This merging approach maintains high purification capability while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device body is segmented into multiple independent passages, each handling a specific filtration stage. The first passage handles initial filtration with larger pore size, while the second passage performs final filtration with smaller pore size. This segmentation allows parallel preparation of multiple sample streams simultaneously, reducing total processing time and operational steps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling and filter changes are performed, then sample preparation flexibility improves, but contamination risk and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs automatic valve actuation based on syringe plunger position. When the plunger reaches predetermined positions during its stroke, the valves automatically open or close to direct fluid flow through appropriate passages and filters. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual filter changes and reduces contamination risk from human handling, while maintaining flexible sample preparation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses the mechanical feedback from syringe plunger position to control valve operation. As the plunger moves during sample aspiration and injection, it triggers valve transitions that automatically switch between different filtration passages. This feedback-based control ensures proper sequential filtration without manual intervention, reducing contamination while maintaining adaptability.
3Productivity
If single-direction fluid flow filters are used, then simple filter design is maintained, but sample processing efficiency and concentration capability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The device transforms static single-direction filtration into a dynamic multi-directional system. Valves automatically switch the flow direction between aspiration (intake) and injection (output) phases based on syringe plunger position. During aspiration, fluid flows through the first passage for initial filtration; during injection, fluid flows through the second passage for final filtration and delivery. This dynamic switching enables efficient sample concentration and processing without overwhelming microfluidic devices with excessive pressure.
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 simplifies sample preparation, reduces contamination risk, and enhances sample concentration, enabling efficient processing and enrichment of samples while maintaining integrity, even in non-technical hands, and is compatible with standard syringes and biomedical waste disposal.
Implementation Method 1
one or more of the passages can filter the sample
Implementation Method 2
A fluid retention member is disposed along at least one of the first and second passages. The fluid retention member is configured to retain fluid that passes along the first and second passage so that the amount of fluid that exits the passage is less than the amount of fluid that entered the passage.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample preparation device for reducing a concentration of one or more concomitant components of a sample and/or increasing a concentration of one or more desired sample components is described.