Sweat Collection System with Segmented Receptacles for Time-Resolved Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sweat collection methods provide only a single, representative sample over an entire experimental period, losing time-resolution and utility of analyte concentration changes during the experiment.
Innovation Solution
A sweat collection system comprising a device with a concave sweat-collecting surface and connected tubing, allowing discrete samples to be collected at intervals and stored in separate receptacles for analysis, enabling time series sampling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single bulk sweat sample is collected over the entire experimental period, then the collection process is simple and the sample volume is sufficient for analysis, but the time-resolution of analyte concentration changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The sweat collection system is segmented into multiple discrete receptacles (first receptacle, second receptacle, third receptacle) that can be sequentially attached to the sweat collection device. Each receptacle collects sweat during a specific time interval, allowing time-resolved analysis of analyte concentrations while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Loss of information
If multiple receptacles are used for time series sampling, then the time-resolution and utility of analyte analysis are improved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple empty receptacles are prepared in advance before the sweat collection experiment begins. This preliminary preparation allows the researcher to sequentially attach pre-prepared receptacles to collect sweat at different time intervals without needing to make decisions or perform complex operations during the actual collection process, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining time-resolution.
3Measurement precision
If discrete time interval samples are collected, then changes in analyte concentrations over time can be elucidated, but the collection system requires more components and configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The closure component serves multiple functions: it seals the receptacle, provides an attachment interface to the sweat collection device, and can be reused across multiple receptacles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each time interval, thereby managing device complexity while enabling time-resolved sampling.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for collecting sweat for analytical evaluation over a period of time is disclosed. The system is configured so that discrete samples of sweat obtained during certain time intervals during the period of time can be segregated for analysis. The system includes a sweat collecting device that has a main body and a length of sweat collecting tubing that extends outward from a bore in the main body. A receptacle for collecting sweat, which may be in the form of a microfuge tube having a lid, is removably joined to the free end of the sweat collector tubing. The method includes attaching the sweat collection device over an area of a person's skin and collecting sweat from the person's skin using the sweat collection device. The sweat travels into the sweat collector tubing and then into the receptacle. During the period of time, when the desired sample has been collected, the receptacle can be removed and replaced with additional receptacles for collecting additional samples.