Self-Collection Device with Telescoping Sheath and Honeycomb Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for self-collection of biological samples are cumbersome, invasive, and inefficient, often requiring medical facility visits and causing discomfort to users.
Innovation Solution
A universal single-handed device with a sheath and actuator that transitions between open and closed configurations, allowing for ergonomic self-insertion and collection of biological samples, including a collection head with a honeycomb pattern for optimal sample engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional medical facility collection methods are used, then sample collection can be performed with professional assistance, but it requires travel time, wait time, and causes physical discomfort and embarrassment to subjects
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables subjects to self-collect biological samples at home without requiring travel to medical facilities or assistance from medical professionals. The self-collection capability eliminates travel time, wait time, and the embarrassment of having body portions viewed and accessed by others, while maintaining sample collection reliability through proper device design
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes a collection head with engagement features that are pre-configured to maximize sample collection efficiency. The sheath is pre-formed with specific geometric shapes and flexibility characteristics that enable proper positioning and sample adhesion before the actual collection process begins
2Ease of operation
If existing self-collection devices are used, then subjects can collect samples at home, but the devices have bulky designs that are intimidating and uncomfortable to insert
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is constructed from flexible materials that allow the device to conform to anatomical structures during insertion. The flexibility reduces insertion difficulty and physical discomfort, making the device less intimidating and more comfortable for subjects to use independently at home
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath features a rounded distal end with smooth curved surfaces that facilitate easy insertion into body cavities. The curved geometry eliminates sharp edges and corners that could cause trauma, while the streamlined shape reduces resistance during insertion, enhancing comfort and ease of use
3Productivity
If existing self-collection devices are used, then sample collection can be performed independently, but the devices do not optimize collection efficiency or prevent sample loss
Solution Approach 1:
The collection head features localized engagement structures with specific surface properties optimized for adhering to biological samples. The distal end of the sheath has differentiated zones with varying flexibility and surface characteristics that maximize sample collection efficiency at the collection site while preventing sample loss during withdrawal
Solution Approach 2:
The collection head is nested within the sheath in a telescoping arrangement that protects the collected sample during withdrawal from the body. The nested structure prevents sample loss by containing the sample within the sheath cavity, while allowing full deployment of the collection head during the collection process
Data Source
AI summary
A universal single-handed device for self-collection of a biological sample is described herein. The single-handed device may comprise a sheath comprising a distal end for insertion into a portion of a user's body, a shaft at least partially within the sheath, having a collection head for collecting the biological sample positioned at the distal end thereof, and an actuator coupled to the shaft to transition the distal end between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The collection head is covered by the distal end in the closed configuration and is exposed when the distal end is in the open configuration.