Vessel Holder Cap Assembly Sealing for Sample Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for biological analysis involve multiple transfers of samples, leading to loss and contamination due to the need for sequential processing steps in different containers, which are not effectively addressed.
Innovation Solution
A vessel holder assembly with a cap assembly that allows for all processing steps to be performed within a single container, utilizing focused acoustic treatment for lysis, sterilization, and analysis, while maintaining a sealed environment to prevent sample loss and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple transfers of sample between different containers are performed for sequential processing steps, then each processing step can be carried out in a separate container, but sample loss and contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing steps (lysis, centrifugation, sterilization) into a single container system. The vessel holder assembly integrates a vessel for sample containment with a cap assembly that provides both sealing and functional components for processing, eliminating the need to transfer samples between different containers and thus preventing sample loss and contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it seals the vessel to prevent contamination, provides attachment to the vessel holder, and incorporates functional elements for processing steps. This multi-functional design allows all processing operations to occur within the same container, resolving the contradiction between ease of processing and sample loss.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple transfers of sample between different containers are performed for sequential processing steps, then each processing step can be carried out in a separate container, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all processing steps into a single sealed vessel holder assembly, the patent eliminates exposure to external environments during transfers. The sealed container maintains a closed system throughout lysis, centrifugation, and sterilization steps, thereby preventing contamination while preserving processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealed vessel holder creates a protected, inert environment for the sample. The cap assembly provides a secure seal that isolates the sample from external contaminants throughout the processing steps, effectively establishing a contamination-free zone within the vessel.
3Loss of substance
If a sealed vessel holder assembly is used to perform all processing steps in one container, then sample loss and contamination are minimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vessel holder assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a vessel for sample containment, a cap assembly for sealing and attachment, and a vessel holder base for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The attachment members are divided into complementary pairs that enable secure connection without complex mechanisms.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a sealed vessel holder assembly is used to perform all processing steps in one container, then contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into a cap assembly with integrated sealing elements and a complementary vessel holder base. This segmentation allows the sealing function to be achieved through simple geometric complementarity rather than complex mechanisms, maintaining contamination prevention while minimizing device complexity.
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
This approach minimizes sample loss and contamination by enabling all necessary processing steps to be conducted within a single sealed vessel, ensuring efficient and contamination-free sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the sample material may be subject to focused acoustic treatment, resulting in cellular lysis, fragmentation and/or sterilization
Data Source
AI summary
A vessel holder assembly is provided. A vessel holder, for receiving one or more vessels, includes a first set of attachment features. A cap assembly, for covering the vessel(s) includes a second set of attachment features. Respective attachment features of the vessel holder and the cap assembly may be complementary, such that engagement between complementary attachment members results in an attachment between the cap assembly and the vessel holder. Such an attachment may be manually removable, or may be locked so as to require a tool, or other suitable method, for detaching the cap assembly from the vessel holder.