Patent ID: 8365617
Filing Date: 2013-02-05
Classification: B01L,G01N

Abstract:
1. A sampling device for capturing a sample of a material of interest, said device comprising: a hollow outer tube having a proximal end thereof secured to an actuator assembly; a reciprocative sample capture element located within said outer tube and in communication with an actuator of said actuator assembly, said actuator for causing an extension and retraction of said sample capture element; and a sample capture pocket located near a distal end of said sample capture element, said sample capture pocket adapted to capture a volume of material, said sample capture pocket having a port for receiving material therein and a port for expelling material therefrom, said ports in communication with corresponding channels in said sample capture element when said sample capture element is in a retracted position; wherein activation of said actuator causes a portion of said sample capture element to extend from said outer tube, thereby exposing said sample capture pocket and allowing a sample of material to be captured therein, said sample of material trapped in said sample capture pocket upon retraction of said sample capture element by said actuator.