Single-Dose Staining Receptacle with Permeable Basket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for staining biological samples for microscopy are inefficient, particularly in operating room settings, due to the risk of spillage and complexity of handling large volumes of staining agent solutions, which can pose risks to patients and users.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle system comprising a container and a basket, designed for single-dose use, that allows for efficient submersion and retrieval of tissue samples in a controlled manner, with a permeable sample holding element and a sample submersion retention element, reducing the risk of spillage and simplifying the staining process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large bottles of staining agent solution are decanted into smaller containers, then economical shipment and storage is achieved, but spillage risk and operational complexity increase in operating rooms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large volume staining agent solution into multiple single-dose receptacles, each containing a predetermined smaller volume (5-750 mL). This segmentation eliminates the need for decanting operations in the operating room, reducing spillage risk while maintaining economical distribution of the staining agent.
Solution Approach 2:
The staining agent solution is pre-measured and pre-filled into single-dose receptacles before leaving the preparation area. This preliminary action ensures that the exact required volume is ready for use in the operating room, eliminating on-site decanting operations that could lead to spillage.
2Productivity
If samples are manually handled and transferred between containers, then staining process can be completed, but preparation time and risk of error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample holder, staining chamber, and rinsing chamber into a single integrated receptacle system. The sample remains in the same container throughout the staining and rinsing processes, eliminating the need for manual transfer between separate containers and reducing preparation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-dose receptacle serves multiple functions: it holds the sample, contains the staining agent solution, provides a controlled staining environment, and facilitates rinsing. This multi-functionality streamlines the workflow and reduces the number of steps required in the staining process.
3Reliability
If permeable sample holding elements are used, then adequate staining is achieved, but structural complexity of the receptacle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a permeable sample holding element made of porous material that allows the staining agent solution to penetrate through and adequately stain the sample. The porosity of the material enables reliable staining while maintaining a relatively simple overall receptacle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The permeability property is localized to specific regions of the sample holder where contact with the staining agent is required, while other portions of the receptacle maintain structural integrity and simplicity. This localized application of permeability achieves effective staining without requiring the entire receptacle to be complex.
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 receptacle system enables safe and efficient staining and rinsing of tissue samples, reducing preparation time and minimizing risks in operating room settings, while ensuring adequate staining without overflowing, thus facilitating rapid imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a permeable sample holding element that is permeable to fluid in a container
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Disclosed herein are receptacles for use in staining and/or rinsing samples. In some embodiments, a receptacle includes a container and a container top. A container may be sized and shaped to contain fluid and a sample submerged in the fluid. The fluid may be, for example, staining agent solution or rinsing solution. In some embodiments, a kit is provided that includes a first receptacle that includes a container partially filled with staining agent solution and a second receptacle that includes a container partially filled with rinsing solution. In some embodiments, a receptacle includes a container and a basket that is positionable in the container. A basket may include a permeable sample holding element that is permeable to fluid in a container so that samples can be sufficiently stained or rinsed. In some embodiments, a receptacle is a single-dose receptacle that is used intraoperatively (e.g., in an operating room).