Sample collection and transport devices, methods, and kits
Inventors
Chen, Fon-Chiu Mia • Fadul, Melanie • Law, Hong • Lee, Edward • Nanale, Ann Marie • White, Jeffery
Assignees
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Publication Number
US-9297724-B2
Publication Date
2016-03-29
Expiration Date
Abstract
Disclosed are collection devices, kits, and methods for collecting and transporting one or more samples. A collection device of the present invention includes a central panel including a detachable sample strip. The sample strip has a sampling area for applying a sample on each side of the sample strip. The collection device includes two flaps, each capable of covering a portion of the sample strip that includes a sampling area. Consequently, a user is not exposed to a first sample when applying a second sample. Additionally, the sample strip can be detached without uncovering the sample strip.
Core Innovation
The collection device comprises a central panel with a detachable sample strip and sampling areas on opposite faces of a substantially planar surface. First and second flaps cover the respective sampling areas, allowing the first sample to be covered while a second sample is received. Tabs and slits can retain the flaps without adhesive, and the strip can be detached by its handle while the device remains closed.
The disclosure describes the device and related sample-collection and sample-strip separation methods, as well as solvent-based sample recovery and kits. Detaching the strip while the device remains closed reduces sample exposure, aerosolization, and contamination risk. The background section is omitted, so the problem stated in that section is not explicitly described in patent.
Claims Coverage
The claims disclose three inventive features directed to a collection device, a sample collection method, and a sample strip separation method.
Collection device with sampling areas on opposite faces
Claim 1 covers a central panel comprising a sample strip with first and second sampling areas on opposite faces of a substantially planar surface. The device has first and second flaps, and the first flap can cover the first sample while the second sample is received on the second sampling area.
Method for collecting samples with a covering flap
Claim 19 covers a method using the claimed arrangement of a central panel, sample strip, opposite-side sampling areas, and two flaps. The first sample is applied to the first sampling area and is covered by the first flap.
Method for separating the sample strip
Claim 22 covers a method concerning a sample strip containing a first sample covered by the first flap, and the separation of that strip from the central panel.
The three independent claims cover the device structure, sample collection using a covering flap, and separation of the sample strip from the central panel.
Stated Advantages
The device can remain closed while the sample strip is detached, reducing sample exposure, aerosolization, and contamination risk.
Tabs and slits can retain the flaps without adhesive.
Documented Applications
Collection and transport of one or more biological or non-biological samples.
Sample-strip separation and solvent-based sample recovery.
A collection kit including the collection device, applicators, instructions, packaging, and a mailing envelope.
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