Sterile Swab and Buffer Kit for Immunoassay Sample Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing biological samples, such as blood and urine, require complex assays and handling procedures that can lead to contamination and inefficiencies in sample preparation for immunoassay devices.
Innovation Solution
A kit and method that includes a sterile swab with a sorbent end and a dropper bottle assembly containing a buffer solution, allowing for sample collection and mixing with the buffer before dispensing into an immunoassay device, which includes a hinged cap to prevent contamination and a weakened stick for easy breaking, facilitating the preparation of samples for both single and dual path immunoassay devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex assay procedures are used for testing biological samples, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The assay device is divided into distinct functional zones: a sample application zone, a buffer application zone, and a test zone with test lines. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assay procedure while maintaining precision through specialized functional areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Buffer solution is applied to the buffer application zone before sample application, pre-establishing the chemical environment needed for the assay. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex timing sequences and reduces operational complexity while ensuring accurate test results.
2Measurement precision
If complex handling procedures are used for sample preparation, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates sample handling into distinct steps: applying sample to the sample application zone, then applying buffer to the buffer application zone. This segmentation simplifies the handling procedure by breaking it into manageable, sequential actions rather than requiring complex mixed procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The device design allows the sample and buffer to automatically migrate to the test zone through capillary action or wicking, eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation. The system serves itself by using the applied liquids' own properties to achieve proper distribution and mixing.
3Productivity
If buffer is applied before sample, then sample preparation efficiency is improved, but risk of contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides physically separate application zones for buffer and sample, with distinct application openings or areas. This spatial segmentation prevents cross-contamination while allowing buffer to be applied first, maintaining efficiency by enabling sequential application without contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer application zone acts as an intermediary region that receives buffer solution first, allowing it to prepare the test environment before the sample is introduced. This intermediary zone prevents direct contact between external contaminants and the sample path, reducing contamination risk while maintaining efficient preparation.
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 solution effectively prepares biological samples for testing by preventing contamination and ensuring accurate sample handling, achieving comparable results to FDA-approved tests with improved ease of use and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The casing houses an interior permeable material, e.g., glass fiber, capable of transporting an aqueous solution by capillary action, wicking, or simple wetting.
Implementation Method 2
The reservoir volume is disposed in a section of the test cell spaced apart from the inlet, and preferably is filled with sorbent material. The reservoir acts to receive liquid transported along a flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A kit and a method are disclosed for collecting and preparing a biological sample for testing where the sample is to be mixed with a buffer prior to being tested.