Tissue Holder Cap Latch Assembly for Secure Sample Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biopsy systems lack effective and efficient methods for storing tissue samples after imaging, particularly for transporting them to pathology labs while retaining each sample in its respective slot of the tissue holder.
Innovation Solution
A tissue holder cap with a cover and latches that securely fasten onto a tissue holder, ensuring each tissue sample remains in its compartment during transport, using protrusions and latches that align with the holder's features for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tissue samples are stored in open tissue holder after imaging, then samples can be easily accessed, but samples may migrate or become contaminated during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The tissue holder is divided into multiple compartments, each capable of holding a separate tissue sample. The cap is also segmented with corresponding compartments that align with the holder compartments. This segmentation allows each sample to be independently retained while maintaining overall holder integrity during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is designed to nest over the tissue holder, with the cap's internal structure containing compartments that receive and secure the tissue samples already positioned in the holder. This nested configuration provides secure sample retention without requiring a completely different storage mechanism.
2Reliability
If tissue samples are transported without secure retention mechanism, then device complexity is minimized, but sample migration occurs during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is segmented into multiple compartments within the cap, each corresponding to a tissue sample location. This allows independent retention of each sample while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that attaches to the existing holder.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap compartments are designed to automatically retain samples through their geometric configuration and fit with the holder compartments, without requiring additional active retention mechanisms such as clamps or locks for each sample.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tissue samples are stored in separate compartments, then sample organization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder and cap are both segmented into multiple compartments arranged to accommodate multiple tissue samples. This segmentation provides clear organization for multiple samples while using a modular design that can be manufactured as standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented compartment structure serves multiple functions: it organizes multiple samples, provides individual retention for each sample, and maintains a compact overall form factor. The same basic compartment design can accommodate different sample types and sizes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tissue holder cap for covering a tissue holder includes a cover having a perimeter, the cover having an outer surface and an inner surface opposite from the outer surface. The cover includes a central portion having an opening configured for receiving a central post of the tissue holder, a first latch extending from the perimeter of the cover, and a second latch extending from the perimeter of the cover, circumferentially spaced apart from the first latch. The cover also includes a first protrusion configured to engage the post of the tissue holder. When the first protrusion engages with the post, each of the first latch and the second latch automatically aligns with one or more of a plurality of tabs on located on a circumferential sidewall of the tissue holder to thereby securely fasten the tissue holder cap onto the tissue holder.