Urine Collection Kit Sterile Barrier Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenges of obtaining biological samples for diagnostic testing during pandemics, especially in exurban locations, include the risk of spreading infections and the lack of facilities for rapid and safe testing, necessitating the development of efficient and safe diagnostic testing systems.
Innovation Solution
A urine collection kit comprising a clip, collector device, stopper, and cap, designed for easy urine collection and sealing, which can be used with a centrifuge to minimize handling risks and facilitate efficient testing, including a foil packet for temperature resistance and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sample collection methods are used during pandemics, then diagnostic testing can be performed, but the risk of spreading infection increases and safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is divided into separate sterile and non-sterile portions. The sterile portion (collector device with sponge) remains sealed in a sterile barrier until use, while the non-sterile portion (cap with receipt) handles external interactions. This segmentation maintains sterility and reduces infection risk during sample collection.
Solution Approach 2:
A sterile barrier acts as an intermediary between the sterile collector device and the external environment. The barrier includes a sterile adhesive label with receipt portion that allows information exchange without compromising sterility, enabling safe sample collection during pandemics.
2Productivity
If rapid diagnostic testing is implemented in exurban locations, then testing efficiency improves, but the lack of facilities compromises safety and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device enables patients to perform self-collection of urine samples at home without requiring clinical facilities or trained personnel. The device includes all necessary components (collector, sponge, sterile barrier, cap) for independent sample collection, improving accessibility in exurban areas while maintaining safety through sterile design.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection device serves multiple functions: it collects urine samples, maintains sterility, provides a receipt for tracking, and enables centrifugation. This multi-functionality allows rapid diagnostic testing to be performed in various settings including home environments without specialized facilities.
3Reliability
If a sterile collection device is used, then sample integrity and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sterile barrier is integrated with the collector device by adhering it to the exterior surface, combining the sterile containment function with the collection structure. The cap also integrates multiple functions including sealing the tube and providing a receipt portion, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sterile barrier is implemented as a thin flexible film that conforms to the exterior surface of the collector device. This thin-film approach provides sterile protection without adding significant structural complexity or bulk to the device design.
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 kit enables safe and efficient collection of urine samples for diagnostic testing, reducing the risk of infection spread and improving testing efficiency in isolated populations by using a user-friendly and safe method.
Implementation Method 1
a collector device (195)
Implementation Method 2
when the tube is spun in a centrifuge, urine is collected at the bottom surface of the tube
Data Source
AI summary
A kit for urine collection is disclosed. The kit comprises a clip; a collector device comprising a connector portion configured for receiving the clip, a holder portion configured for receiving a sponge; and a stopper portion; a tube configured to receive the collector device; and a cap configured to be inserted onto an open end of the tube and seal the tube and simultaneously receive an end of the collector device into a recess disposed inside the cap.