Liquid Sample Processing Apparatus Compression Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sample collection and processing methods are manual, time-consuming, and prone to spillage and contamination, lacking efficiency and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for processing liquid samples that involves opening a closed container, separating the liquid sample collection member from the handle, inserting a plunger body with a liquid pathway into the container, and compressing the liquid sample collection member to expel the sample through the plunger body, while resecuring the container closure to maintain a sealed environment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual processing steps are used for sample collection and processing, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but processing time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidprocessing system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple manual processing steps (opening container, separating collection member, compressing sample, filtering, and recapping) into a single integrated apparatus. The compression mechanism simultaneously performs sample expulsion through the filter while maintaining container sealing, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and reducing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single device: the container serves as both the sample holder and compression chamber, the plunger body performs both compression and filtration, and the closure mechanism provides both sealing and structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate tools needed and streamlines the processing workflow.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If manual compression and filtration steps are performed, then control over the process is maintained, but the risk of spillage and contamination increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespillage and contamination controlVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element acts as an intermediary between the compressed sample and the external environment, preventing contamination while allowing sample expulsion. The sealed container closure serves as another intermediary barrier, maintaining a controlled environment throughout the compression process and preventing spillage during transfer to the filtration stage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The container is pre-sealed with a closure that maintains a closed environment throughout the compression process. This pre-established sealing prevents contamination and spillage before they can occur, eliminating the need for complex containment measures during the compression and filtration steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Productivity

If multiple separate processing steps are used, then thoroughness of processing is ensured, but processing time and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidtotal processing time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The collection member is pre-positioned within the container before compression begins. The filter element is pre-installed in the plunger body, and the container is pre-sealed with the closure mechanism. These preliminary preparations eliminate the need for intermediate setup steps during processing, allowing immediate compression and sample expulsion upon actuation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If the container remains closed during compression, then sample containment is maintained, but the collection member cannot be effectively compressed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample containmentVSAvoidcompression force application

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The closure mechanism is segmented into a fixed portion (closure body) and a movable portion (plunger body). This segmentation allows the plunger to move downward for compression while the closure body remains fixed to maintain sealing. The handle connects these segments, transmitting compression force through the plunger while preserving the closed containment environment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This method enhances processing speed, reduces manual effort, minimizes spillage and contamination risks, and improves overall efficiency compared to traditional manual processing techniques.

Implementation Method 1

The plunger body is pushed downward to compress the liquid sample collection member such that the liquid sample collection member expels at least some of the liquid sample

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS20250035518A1Sample processing apparatus, systems, and methods

Publication Date: 2025.01.30 POREX CORP

AI summary

A liquid sample processing method includes opening a closed container by removing a closure of the container from an opening of the container to access a liquid sample collector including a liquid sample collection member and an elongated handle. Before removing the closure, the container may be secured with a holder. After separating the liquid sample collection member, a plunger with a liquid pathway extending through it is pushed downward to compress the liquid sample collection member such that at least some of the liquid sample flows through the liquid pathway.