Patent ID: 8261622
Filing Date: 2012-09-11
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A sampling device for sampling a fluid, the device comprising: a retention tube comprising a wall defining an interior space with a first cross-sectional area, the retention tube having an upper end and a lower end and an opening at the lower end to receive a sample of said fluid; a control member having a proximal end and a distal end, the control member being at least partially positioned within the interior space of the retention tube, the proximal and distal ends of the control member extending through and past the respective upper and lower ends of the retention tube; and a plug coupled to the distal end of the control member, the plug being movable to a position adjacent to the retention tube and above the lower end of the retention tube to facilitate flow of said fluid into the retention tube during insertion of the retention tube into said fluid, the plug comprising a portion having a second cross-sectional area larger than the first cross-sectional area of the interior space of the retention tube, the plug being configured to sealably engage the opening of the retention tube so that a sample of said fluid is retained within the interior space of the retention tube, wherein the plug comprises a top, a flange, and a middle portion coupled between the top and the flange, the top being configured to self-center into the opening of the retention tube, the middle portion having a cylindrical body having a cross-sectional area sized to fit within the opening of the retention tube, the plug comprising a removable gasket having an aperture sized to slidably engage the middle portion of the plug, the removable gasket comprising a material having a lower durometer than a material of the top, the flange, and the middle portion of the plug.