Biological Separation Tube With Pressure-Regulating Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for isolating target biological materials from blood samples are inefficient and stressful due to the need for multiple processing steps and lack of controlled pressure regulation, which can damage cells during separation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a centrifuge tube, a separation tube with an open bottom, and a cap that regulates air pressure, allowing for controlled release and analysis of isolated materials by using a plug to seal and evacuate the separation tube, and a needle apparatus for drawing samples while preventing clotting with an anticoagulant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If density separation medium is used to separate white blood cells from red blood cells by centrifugation, then separation efficiency is improved, but additional stress is applied to living cells
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes red blood cells from the blood sample before the density separation step. By using a filter vessel with a filter at the lower end, red blood cells are physically separated and removed, leaving primarily white blood cells and plasma. This extraction approach eliminates the need for density separation medium and reduces stress on white blood cells during the separation process.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple washing steps are used to remove red blood cells after centrifugation, then purity of white blood cells is improved, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs the removal of red blood cells as a preliminary action before the density separation step. By filtering out red blood cells first, the subsequent separation process works with a pre-enriched sample containing primarily white blood cells, eliminating the need for multiple washing steps and reducing overall processing time.
3Reliability
If the separation tube is sealed during centrifugation, then sample containment is improved, but pressure regulation becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a capillary channel as an intermediary element that connects the sealed separation tube to the external environment. This narrow channel allows pressure equalization between the sealed interior of the separation tube and the external atmosphere, enabling the tube to remain sealed during centrifugation while avoiding pressure buildup problems.
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 system minimizes processing steps and reduces stress on target materials by enabling efficient separation and controlled release of biological materials, improving the isolation process while maintaining sample integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The separation tube and the centrifuge tube are configured to sealingly and releasably couple to the cap. During centrifugation, the separation tube is submersed in the separation medium.
Implementation Method 2
The cap is configured to facilitate and/or regulate air- or gas-flow between an area outside of the cap and an interior of the separation tube.
Implementation Method 3
a needle apparatus for drawing samples while preventing clotting with an anticoagulant
Data Source
AI summary
A system for collecting and separating biological material includes a centrifuge tube, a separation tube having an open bottom, a cap, a plug for temporarily sealing the open bottom of the separation tube, and a separation medium disposable within the centrifuge tube. The centrifuge tube and the separation tube sealingly and releasably couple to the cap, such that, when coupled, the separation tube is positioned within the centrifuge tube. The cap is configured to facilitate and/or regulate the introduction of air, gas, or other matter into the separation tube. When fully sealed, the separation tube may be placed under a vacuum condition, whereby a needle apparatus is used to facilitate introduction of matter into the separation tube. When the separation tube is positioned within the centrifuge tube, the bottom portion of the separation tube is submersed in the separation medium.