Biological sample collection system with twist-activated valve for sample release

A biological sample collection system, the system comprising:

• a containment vessel comprising:
• a first open end for receiving a biological sample,
• a second end comprising a sample storage chamber, and
• a connection member disposed at the first open end;
• a sample collection assembly configured to be connected to the first open end of the containment vessel when the biological sample is being collected, the sample collection assembly comprising:
• a sample collector comprising:
• a proximal open end for receiving a biological sample;
• a distal open end in fluid communication with the proximal open end;
• a valve stem comprising:
• a first stem end extending from an inner portion of the sample collector, the inner portion being disposed proximal to the distal open end of the sample collector, and
• an opposing second stem end comprising a valve face,
• the valve stem extending along a longitudinal axis of the sample collector and in a direction away from the proximal open end of the sample collector;
• and
• a threaded connection member disposed at the distal open end of the sample collector;
• and
• a sample collection vessel configured to be in fluid communication with the sample collector when the biological sample is being collected, the sample collection vessel comprising:
• a proximal open end for receiving the biological sample from the sample collector;
• a distal open end configured to be in fluid communication with the proximal open end;
• one or more walls defining a sample receiving area and a valve seat, wherein the valve seat is complementary to the valve face of the sample collector;
• a threaded connection member disposed at the proximal open end, wherein the threaded connection member is complementary to and configured to be engaged with the threaded connection member of the sample collector;
• and
• a connection member disposed at the distal open end, wherein the connection member is complementary to and configured to be engaged with the connection member of the containment vessel;
• wherein the valve stem and the valve seat form a valve comprising:
• a closed configuration wherein the threaded connection members of the sample collector and the sample collection vessel are fully engaged, wherein when the valve is in the closed configuration the valve face forms a sealing engagement with the valve seat;
• and
• an open configuration wherein the threaded connection members of the sample collector and the sample collection vessel are less than fully engaged, wherein when the valve is in the open configuration the valve face is spaced apart from the valve seat such that the containment vessel, the sample collection vessel, and the sample collector are in fluid communication with one another.