One-Handed Specimen Container Closure with Segmented Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fecal specimen collection devices are cumbersome to handle, often requiring both hands and can expose technicians to odors and specimens due to leaky closures and cumbersome designs, especially when wearing protective gloves.
Innovation Solution
A specimen collection and transport system featuring a container with a flip-top or toggle-type closure that can be opened with one hand, a sample collection member with a scoop for easy specimen handling, and a filter for liquid preparation, allowing for efficient and safe handling of specimens and reagents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw-type lid or traditional closure is used to seal the container, then a leak-free seal is achieved, but the closure becomes cumbersome to handle and requires both hands to manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is divided into a base portion that remains attached to the container and a removable cap that can be easily detached and reattached. This segmentation allows the sealing function to be maintained while simplifying the manipulation process, as users only need to handle the small cap rather than the entire closure assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure transitions from a static screw-type mechanism to a dynamic snap-fit system with movable components. The cap can be quickly opened and closed through simple pressing motions, and the closure includes a resilient portion that provides automatic engagement and disengagement, making it adaptable to one-handed operation while maintaining sealing reliability.
2Reliability
If a traditional closure design is used, then sealing is achieved, but it becomes unwieldy to manipulate when wearing protective gloves
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the closure into a fixed base and a removable cap, the operational portion becomes small and easy to grasp even with gloved hands. The cap's reduced size and simplified geometry make it accessible to gloved fingers, while the base remains securely attached to maintain the seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure incorporates a resilient portion that automatically engages the cap with the base through spring-like force, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment. This self-engaging mechanism works effectively even when users are wearing protective gloves, as the resilient portion compensates for reduced dexterity.
3Ease of operation
If the closure is designed for easy one-handed operation, then ease of use is improved, but the seal may become less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The closure uses a dynamic snap-fit mechanism with resilient portions that automatically adjust to ensure proper sealing. When the cap is pressed onto the base, the resilient portion deforms and then rebounds to create a secure, leak-free connection, maintaining seal integrity while enabling simple one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure combines multiple sealing functions into a single integrated assembly. The base portion provides structural support and initial sealing, while the removable cap adds a secondary sealing layer. Together, they create a redundant sealing system that maintains reliability even with simplified operation mechanisms.
4Productivity
If fecal matter and chemicals are contained in the same container, then specimen preparation is facilitated, but technicians are exposed to objectionable odors
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the specimen collection container from the processing environment through a secure closure mechanism. The tightly sealing cap and base assembly prevents odor escape during transport and handling, allowing technicians to work with specimens in a controlled manner without continuous odor exposure, while still enabling efficient preparation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure assembly acts as an intermediary barrier between the odorous specimen contents and the technician. By providing a reliable seal that can be quickly opened and closed, it mediates between the need for efficient specimen access and the need for odor protection, allowing controlled interaction with the specimen.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for collecting, transporting and preparing a fecal specimen for examination includes a container, a closure selectively secured over an open end of the container, and a sample collection member coupled to the closure and extending into the container when the closure is secured thereto. In one embodiment, the closure includes a base and a cap that are hingedly coupled together. The cap is selectively moveable between a closed position that seals an aperture in the base, and an open position wherein the aperture is exposed to permit expelling contents of the container through the aperture. In another embodiment, the closure comprises a base having a spout and an aperture, and a cap coupled to the base for axial movement along the spout between open and closed positions. The system may further include a deodorant to mask or absorb odors.