Double bottom test tube kit and method therefore
Inventors
Assignees
US Environmental Protection Agency
Publication Number
US-11090647-B2
Publication Date
2021-08-17
Expiration Date
2038-01-25
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Abstract
A double bottom test tube has a first tubular section having an open end and a rounded closed end. A second tubular section has an open end and a rounded closed end. The open end of the first tubular section is couplable to the open end of the second tubular section.
Core Innovation
The invention disclosed is a double bottom test tube that comprises two tubular sections, each having an open end and a rounded closed end. These sections are couplable at their open ends to form a sealed container. The design allows a collection device to be placed within one of the rounded closed ends, while the other rounded closed end serves as a collection end for a centrifuged specimen.
The problem addressed by this invention arises in conventional test tubes where, prior to centrifugation, the collection device must be repositioned to allow the specimen to collect in the bottom section and prevent reabsorption by the collection device. This repositioning is a potential source of contamination, adds unnecessary work, and increases personnel time in processing specimens.
The double bottom test tube overcomes this by having two connected sections that allow the collection device to remain in place in one section while the centrifuged specimen collects in the opposite section. The open ends are secured by a removable connector that forms a seal preventing leakage, enabling centrifugation without repositioning the collection device and hence reducing contamination risk and processing time.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes two independent claims covering the structural features and components of the double bottom test tube system and its method of use. There are four main inventive features described in these claims.
Double bottom test tube construction with removable connector
The double bottom test tube comprises two tubular sections each with an open end and a rounded closed end, having lip members around the open ends. These two sections are secured together with a removable connector, specifically a flange seal with interior channels that hold the lip members and allow fluid flow between the open ends to either of the rounded closed ends. The connector is removable enabling separation of the sections.
Collection device design and placement
A collection device sized to fit within the double bottom test tube includes an absorbent section and a non-porous, non-absorbent handle extending through the open ends of both tubular sections. The absorbent section is positioned in one rounded closed end while the handle rests in the opposite rounded closed end. This arrangement allows the opposite rounded closed end to serve as the collection end during centrifugation.
Cap for sealing uncoupled tubular section
A cap is coupled to the open end of either tubular section when that section is uncoupled from the other and is configured as the collection end. The cap may be a flat top cap and prevents leakage and contamination of the specimen after centrifugation when one section is separated.
Symmetry and materials of the test tube sections
The first and second tubular sections may be symmetrical in size and shape. Both sections are formed of materials strong enough to withstand centrifugation and cryogenic conditions, such as glass or clear plastic. The absorbent section of the collection device is a sponge or similar material fitting within one section, and the handle is non-porous and non-absorbent.
The claims collectively cover a double bottom test tube with two connected tubular sections secured by a removable flange seal connector, a collection device positioned within one section with a non-absorbent handle extending through both, and a cap for sealing the collection end when separated. The invention is characterized by specific structural features that facilitate specimen collection and centrifugation without repositioning the collection device.
Stated Advantages
Reduces the possibility of contamination during centrifugation by eliminating the need to reposition the collection device.
Prevents reabsorption of the specimen after centrifuging by allowing the specimen to collect in the opposite end from the collection device.
Simplifies the centrifugation process and reduces personnel time burden in specimen processing.
Documented Applications
Holding and culturing collected biological or environmental specimens within the test tube.
Collecting specimens using a collection device that is placed within the double bottom test tube for subsequent centrifugation.
Centrifuging specimens in the double bottom test tube to separate samples without repositioning the collection device.
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