Sample collection and dispensing device
Inventors
MENDOZA, Estevan • Warner, Eric
Assignees
Publication Number
US-12168225-B2
Publication Date
2024-12-17
Expiration Date
2039-08-21
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Abstract
Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are directed to sample collecting and dispensing methods and apparatuses. An example apparatus includes a capillary sampler disposed on a device first end, wherein the capillary sampler is configured to collect a fluid sample via an opening and a capillary body. The apparatus further includes a reagents chamber in fluid communication with the capillary sampler, and a barrier assembly disposed between the capillary sampler and the reagents chamber, wherein the barrier assembly is configured to separate fluid in the reagents chamber from the capillary sampler. A plunger assembly disposed on a device second end opposite the device first end, may modify the barrier assembly to dispense the fluid from the reagents chamber to the capillary sampler responsive to application of a force in the direction of the device first end.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to a sample collecting and dispensing apparatus particularly suited for biological fluids such as blood. The apparatus is designed as a handheld device with a capillary sampler at one end, which collects a fluid sample through an opening and a capillary body. A reagents chamber is in fluid communication with the capillary sampler, separated by a barrier assembly, and a plunger assembly is disposed at the end opposite the capillary sampler, capable of modifying the barrier assembly to dispense fluid from the reagents chamber to the capillary sampler when force is applied.
The core problem addressed is the need for reliable and efficient mixing of a biological sample with a reagent without multiple handling steps, which are commonly required in point-of-care sample analysis. Conventional methods involve extra steps such as transferring the sample to different receptacles and subsequent mixing and loading for testing, often resulting in loss of sample, increased error rates, and longer processing times. The invention seeks to streamline the collection, mixing, and dispensing process.
The device features a venting barrier within the capillary sampler to limit sample volume and permit passage of air but substantially block liquid. A flow barrier, such as a deformable ball or frangible membrane, prevents the flow of reagent from the chamber under normal conditions and is dislodged or ruptured when pressure is applied by the plunger. The device can mix a pre-measured sample with a defined amount of reagent and then dispense the mixture directly into an analysis or testing device, potentially reducing sample handling errors and processing steps.
Claims Coverage
There are three independent claims, each describing a core inventive feature relating to a sample collecting and dispensing apparatus and its method of operation.
Sample collecting and dispensing apparatus with capillary sampler and barrier assembly
An apparatus including: - A capillary sampler on a first end configured to collect fluid via an opening and capillary body. - A reagents chamber in fluid communication with the capillary sampler. - A barrier assembly between the capillary sampler and reagents chamber to separate fluid in the chamber from the sampler. - A plunger assembly at the second end that can modify the barrier to dispense reagent upon force application. - A venting barrier in the capillary body, and - A liquid barrier formed by a deformable ball which is displaced by increased pressure in the reagents chamber, with the venting barrier preventing the ball from blocking fluid flow into the sampler.
Sample collecting and dispensing apparatus with threaded plunger assembly and mating features
An apparatus comprising: - A capillary sampler for collecting and dispensing a fluid sample via an opening and capillary body. - A reagent chamber storing a specific fluid reagent, attached distally to the capillary sampler and proximally to a plunger assembly. - A liquid barrier at the distal end of the reagent chamber preventing passage of reagent under atmospheric pressure. - A plunger assembly including a handle and plunger rod, connected to the reagent chamber via mated threads, allowing the plunger to move distally and reduce reagent chamber volume to release fluid reagent. - The reagent chamber having external mating features for translation along corresponding mated threads inside the handle.
Method of sample collection and dispensing with barrier modification
A method comprising: 1. Collecting a fluid sample by capillary force through an opening in a capillary sampler, with sample volume limited by an internal barrier assembly. 2. Coupling the apparatus to a receiving port of a test device. 3. Applying force on a plunger at the opposite end to modify the barrier assembly, dispensing reagent from the chamber and the fluid sample from the sampler opening. 4. Modifying the barrier assembly includes increasing chamber pressure and dislodging a deformable ball located proximal to the capillary sampler.
The independent claims collectively cover a sample collecting and dispensing apparatus with integrated sample and reagent handling, actuator-triggered barrier modification for controlled reagent/sample dispensing, and a method for efficient and reliable sample collection, mixing, and delivery using these integrated features.
Stated Advantages
Eliminates additional handling and processing steps, reducing the time required and amount of error in processing samples.
Allows a biological sample to be taken up and mixed with a pre-measured amount of reagent, minimizing loss of sample.
Reduces the likelihood of inaccurate test results during processing, especially when handling multiple samples.
Documented Applications
Handheld and portable device for collecting and dispensing biological samples such as blood, saliva, and urine for subsequent testing.
Mixing collected biological samples with reagents prior to analysis in point-of-care systems.
Applying non-biological samples to corresponding test devices, such as for illegal substance testing.
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