Molecular interaction sample preparation system
The molecular interaction sample preparation system, which integrates eight-channel and single-channel pipetting modules, solves the complexity of sample preparation and concentration formulation in high-throughput experiments, achieves automated and efficient sample processing, and improves the accuracy and consistency of experimental results.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PEKING UNIV
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
In high-throughput molecular interaction experiments, existing technologies rely on automated pipetting workstations that are complex to operate and have high programming barriers, making it difficult to meet diverse sample preparation and concentration requirements, resulting in low efficiency and large errors.
A molecular interaction sample preparation system was designed, which integrates eight-channel and single-channel pipetting modules, is equipped with a composite moving device, and supports surface plasmon resonance, biolayer interferometry and micro-thermophoresis, to realize automated sample preparation and concentration preparation and reduce human operation error.
It improves experimental efficiency, ensures the accuracy and repeatability of experimental results, meets the diverse needs of high-throughput experiments, and simplifies the operation process.
Smart Images
Figure CN224152136U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of sample preparation technology, and in particular to a molecular interaction sample preparation system. Background Technology
[0002] Molecular interaction techniques, as an indispensable research tool in innovative drug development, are widely used in all stages of drug development. These applications include, but are not limited to, drug target discovery and identification, drug screening, lead compound activity optimization, discovery of active ingredients in natural drugs, drug mechanism studies, binding characterization, epitope pairing, and immunogenicity detection. The main instruments relied upon for this technique include surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biofilm interferometry (BLI), and microthermophoresis (MST).
[0003] With the development of molecular interaction techniques and their widespread application in scientific research, new challenges are constantly emerging, such as the need for high-throughput experiments, the efficient use of precious samples and reagents, and the demand for rapid and accurate sample processing. Especially when facing high-throughput experiments, traditional manual or semi-automatic sample preparation methods are inefficient and cannot meet the ever-increasing experimental requirements.
[0004] While automated pipetting workstations currently on the market can alleviate these problems to some extent, they generally suffer from complex operation, high programming barriers, and limited functionality, making it difficult to fully meet the diverse sample preparation and concentration formulation needs in molecular interaction experiments. Utility Model Content
[0005] This invention provides a molecular interaction sample preparation system to support sample preparation and concentration formulation for molecular interaction instruments such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometer (BLI), and micro thermophoresis (MST). It provides researchers with a more efficient, flexible, and reliable solution for conducting molecular interaction experiments, not only improving experimental efficiency but also significantly reducing errors introduced by human operation, and ensuring the accuracy and repeatability of experimental results.
[0006] This invention provides a molecular interaction sample preparation system for sample preparation and concentration formulation of a molecular interaction instrument, comprising: a base for supporting a sample tray for placing the sample container of the molecular interaction instrument; a composite pipetting device disposed above the base, the composite pipetting device comprising: an eight-channel pipetting module for performing simultaneous pipetting operations on multiple samples, suitable for batch sample processing and gradient dilution; a single-channel pipetting module for transferring and dispensing small-volume samples, suitable for micro-sample processing; and a composite moving device for driving the eight-channel pipetting module and the single-channel pipetting module to move horizontally and vertically.
[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a lateral translation device is provided between the base and the sample tray. The lateral translation device includes: a slide rail disposed on the base, the bottom of the sample tray being slidably engaged with the slide rail; and a first driver disposed on the base and acting on the sample tray to drive the sample tray to move along the slide rail.
[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the composite moving device includes: a longitudinal lead screw pair for driving the eight-channel pipetting module and the single-channel pipetting module to move in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the slide rail.
[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the eight-channel pipetting module includes a multi-channel pipette tip holder for mounting pipette tips; the composite moving device includes a first vertical actuator for driving the multi-channel pipette tip holder to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the single-channel pipetting module includes a single-channel pipette tip holder for mounting pipette tips; the composite moving device includes a second vertical actuator for driving the single-channel pipette tip holder to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes: a vertical support, the bottom end of which is fixed to the base; a horizontal support arm, which is disposed at the top of the vertical support, and the composite moving device is disposed on the horizontal support arm.
[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes: a display screen, disposed on the horizontal support arm, serving as a human-computer interaction port for the molecular interaction sample preparation system.
[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sample tray is provided with: a pipette tip holder for storing the pipette tips to be assembled in an array; and multiple universal sample positions for placing the same or different types of sample containers.
[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sample container includes one or more of the following: a well plate, a storage tank, a centrifuge tube, and a PCR tube.
[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the universal sample position is equipped with: a first sample holder for compatible configuration of the well plate or the liquid storage tank; and a second sample holder for compatible configuration of the centrifuge tube or the PCR tube.
[0016] This invention provides a molecular interaction sample preparation system that overcomes the shortcomings of existing technologies by integrating a base, a composite pipetting device, and a composite moving device. Specifically, the system is equipped with an eight-channel pipetting module and a single-channel pipetting module. The former can perform simultaneous pipetting of multiple samples, suitable for batch sample processing and gradient dilution, thus significantly improving experimental efficiency and simplifying the operation process. The latter is specifically designed for transferring and distributing small-volume samples, meeting the needs of micro-thermophoresis instruments for small-volume, high-precision experiments, ensuring the accuracy of micro-sample processing. Furthermore, the composite moving device can drive the two pipetting modules to move freely in both horizontal and vertical directions, offering high flexibility and applicability, making the entire sample preparation process more automated and reducing human intervention, effectively minimizing operational errors. Therefore, this system not only supports sample preparation and concentration formulation for molecular interaction instruments such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometry (BLI), and micro-thermophoresis (MST), but also provides researchers with a more efficient, flexible, and reliable solution, significantly improving experimental efficiency and the accuracy and reproducibility of results. Attached Figure Description
[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the molecular interaction sample preparation system provided by this utility model.
[0019] Figure label:
[0020] 10. Base; 11. Sample tray; 12. Pipette tip holder; 13. Universal sample position; 21. Eight-channel pipetting module; 22. Single-channel pipetting module; 23. First vertical actuator; 24. Second vertical actuator; 25. Vertical support; 26. Horizontal support arm; 27. Display screen. Detailed Implementation
[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.
[0022] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. It should also be noted that in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.
[0023] This invention provides a fully automated molecular interaction sample preparation system designed to support the sample preparation and concentration formulation needs of molecular interaction instruments such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometer (BLI), and micro-thermophoresis (MST). The system features automated gradient dispensing, enabling precise preparation of sample volumes ranging from a few microliters to hundreds of microliters. It integrates an eight-channel medium-range pipetting module and a single-channel small-range pipetting module, ensuring accuracy and efficiency when processing samples of varying volumes. Furthermore, these modules endow the system with high-throughput processing capabilities and a high degree of automation, making sample preparation simpler, faster, and more reliable. This system provides researchers with more efficient and flexible support for conducting molecular interaction experiments, while ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of experimental results.
[0024] The following is combined with Figure 1 This invention describes the specific implementation of the molecular interaction sample preparation system.
[0025] This invention provides a molecular interaction sample preparation system for sample preparation and concentration formulation of a molecular interaction instrument, comprising: a base 10 for supporting a sample tray 11, the sample tray 11 for placing the sample container of the molecular interaction instrument; a composite pipetting device disposed above the base 10, the composite pipetting device comprising: an eight-channel pipetting module 21 for performing simultaneous pipetting operations on multiple samples, suitable for batch sample processing and gradient dilution; a single-channel pipetting module 22 for transferring and dispensing small-volume samples, suitable for micro-sample processing; and a composite moving device for driving the eight-channel pipetting module 21 and the single-channel pipetting module 22 to move horizontally and vertically.
[0026] Specifically, the system includes a base 10, a composite pipetting device, and a composite moving device. The base 10 supports a sample tray 11, which is equipped with sample containers suitable for various molecular interaction instruments. The composite pipetting device, located above the base 10, comprises an eight-channel pipetting module 21 and a single-channel pipetting module 22. The eight-channel pipetting module 21 can perform simultaneous pipetting of multiple samples, making it ideal for batch sample processing and gradient dilution, greatly improving experimental efficiency and simplifying the operation process. The single-channel pipetting module 22 is specifically designed for small-volume samples, meeting the high-precision experimental requirements of instruments such as micro-thermophoresis, and ensuring the accuracy of micro-sample processing.
[0027] Furthermore, the design of the composite moving device allows the eight-channel pipetting module 21 and the single-channel pipetting module 22 to move freely in both horizontal and vertical directions, giving the entire system a high degree of flexibility and a wide range of applications. This not only achieves a high degree of automation in the sample preparation process but also reduces human intervention, effectively minimizing operational errors. Therefore, this system not only supports the sample preparation and concentration formulation needs of molecular interaction instruments such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometer (BLI), and microthermophoresis (MST), but also provides researchers with a more efficient, flexible, and reliable solution, significantly improving experimental efficiency and the accuracy and reproducibility of results.
[0028] Furthermore, this system can be customized for different molecular interaction instruments, such as SPR, BLI, and MST. For example, SPR comes with an eight-channel gradient dilution function and solvent-corrected sample preparation function by default, and can select well plates or centrifuge tubes as consumables as needed; BLI also has an eight-channel gradient dilution function, and the consumable options also include well plates or centrifuge tubes; while MST provides a single-channel dilution function by default, and the optional consumables include PCR tubes and PCR 8-tube bundles. In addition, the system can also provide plate transfer function and a variety of practical tools, such as concentration conversion calculators and molar concentration calculators. Preferably, it also has a built-in process traceability system to meet diverse experimental needs and provide strong technical support for molecular interaction research.
[0029] According to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this utility model, a lateral translation device is provided between the base 10 and the sample tray 11. The lateral translation device includes: a slide rail, disposed on the base 10, with the bottom of the sample tray 11 slidably engaged with the slide rail; and a first driver, disposed on the base 10 and acting on the sample tray 11, to drive the sample tray 11 to move along the slide rail. Specifically, the sample tray 11 can achieve automatic lateral movement on the base 10, enabling sample containers at different positions to quickly and accurately reach the designated working position without manual adjustment of the sample tray 11. Furthermore, since the entire movement process is precisely controlled by the first driver, errors that may be caused by human operation are avoided, thereby ensuring the consistency and accuracy of sample processing. The first driver can be a stepper motor, servo motor, or linear driver used in conjunction with the slide rail.
[0030] According to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the composite moving device includes a longitudinal lead screw pair for driving an eight-channel pipetting module 21 and a single-channel pipetting module 22 to move in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the slide rail. Specifically, the longitudinal lead screw pair typically consists of a high-precision lead screw and a mating nut. When the lead screw rotates, the nut moves along the axial direction of the lead screw, thereby driving the pipetting modules mounted thereon to perform precise horizontal displacement. To drive the lead screw rotation, a high-precision drive device such as a stepper motor or servo motor is typically used to provide precise angular displacement control, which is then converted into linear displacement of the lead screw and nut, ensuring that each pipetting module can accurately stop at a designated position and perform the corresponding operation. In addition, the system can also be equipped with a position feedback sensor, such as an encoder, to monitor the position of the pipetting modules in real time, further improving the positioning accuracy.
[0031] According to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the eight-channel pipetting module 21 includes a multi-channel pipette tip holder for mounting pipette tips; the composite movement device includes a first vertical actuator 23 for driving the multi-channel pipette tip holder to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Efficient and accurate pipetting operations are achieved by precisely controlling the vertical movement of the multi-channel pipette tip holder. Specifically, the first vertical actuator 23 preferably consists of a high-precision motor (such as a stepper motor or servo motor) and a corresponding transmission device, such as a lead screw and nut mechanism or a linear guide rail. When the motor receives a command from the control system, it drives the lead screw to rotate, thereby causing the mating nut to move the multi-channel pipette tip holder up and down.
[0032] On the other hand, according to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the single-channel pipetting module 22 preferably also includes a single-channel pipette tip holder for mounting the pipette tip; the composite movement device includes a second vertical actuator 24 for driving the single-channel pipette tip holder to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Similar to the eight-channel pipetting module 21, the second vertical actuator 24 also preferably employs a high-precision motor (e.g., a stepper motor or a servo motor) and a corresponding transmission device (e.g., a lead screw and nut device or a linear guide). When it is necessary to operate on a small amount of sample, the control system will issue a command to the second vertical actuator 24, causing it to drive the single-channel pipette tip holder to make precise vertical movements. Both the single-channel pipetting module 22 and the eight-channel pipetting module 21 are equipped with independent vertical actuators, allowing the system to flexibly switch between different types of pipetting modules according to experimental needs, enhancing the system's versatility and adaptability.
[0033] According to the present invention, a molecular interaction sample preparation system further includes: a vertical support 25, the bottom of which is fixed to a base 10; a horizontal support arm 26, which is disposed at the top of the vertical support 25, and a composite moving device disposed on the horizontal support arm 26. The combination of the vertical support 25 and the horizontal support arm 26 provides a stable and flexible working platform for the composite moving device.
[0034] The vertical support 25 not only provides physical support, ensuring the stability of the entire system, but also allows for efficient spatial arrangement of the composite moving device and the pipetting module it carries. The vertical support 25 is typically made of robust and durable materials, such as aluminum alloy or stainless steel, to ensure sufficient strength and stability while minimizing impact on the experimental environment. In a preferred embodiment, electrical control components such as the controller of the molecular interaction sample preparation system can also be integrated inside the vertical support 25. A horizontal arm 26 is mounted at the top of the vertical support 25, providing additional lateral extension capability, allowing the composite moving device to move freely within a larger working area. The horizontal arm 26 is preferably equipped with guide rails or other guiding devices to ensure that the composite moving device can move smoothly and accurately along a predetermined path.
[0035] The composite movement device is mounted on the horizontal support arm 26, utilizing the vertical space provided by the vertical support 25 and the lateral space provided by the horizontal support arm 26 to achieve multi-dimensional precise control. The eight-channel pipetting module 21 and the single-channel pipetting module 22 can be finely adjusted in the vertical direction by the first vertical actuator 23 and the second vertical actuator 24, while the longitudinal lead screw is responsible for positioning in the horizontal direction in conjunction with the lateral translation device of the sample tray 11. This three-dimensional movement mechanism allows the system to flexibly handle various sample configurations and experimental requirements.
[0036] According to the present invention, a molecular interaction sample preparation system further includes a display screen 27, mounted on a horizontal support arm 26, serving as the human-machine interface for the molecular interaction sample preparation system. The display screen 27 is designed to provide an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, enabling users to conveniently control and monitor the various functions of the molecular interaction sample preparation system. By directly integrating the display screen 27 onto the horizontal support arm 26, not only is space saved on the laboratory workbench, but it also ensures that users can easily access all necessary control options and information feedback during experiments, without needing to find or connect external display devices.
[0037] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, the preferred instrument setup and operation process of the molecular interaction sample preparation system includes: the instrument startup interface is the user login interface; after logging in, the user enters the function selection interface, selects the sample dilution function, and selects the molecular interaction technology tag; then, the user enters the sample preparation setting interface, where the user can select the consumable type, plate position, and channel used, and fill in the dilution times, volume, and concentration information, while checking functions such as wall adhesion, pipetting and mixing, and changing pipette tips, and then confirming; after confirmation, the instrument will pop up a window prompting the user about the pipette tip placement method, consumable placement method, and relevant information about sample preparation; after preparation, the instrument will start automatically preparing the sample; after preparation, the instrument displays the concentration information of each well and allows the user to export detailed preparation methods for subsequent analysis and recording.
[0038] According to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the sample tray 11 is equipped with: a pipette tip holder 12 for arraying and storing pipette tips to be assembled; and multiple universal sample slots 13 for placing sample containers of the same or different types. The pipette tip holders 12 are typically arranged at standard intervals to facilitate precise gripping and installation of pipette tips during automatic or manual operation, ensuring quick and convenient replacement and use during experiments. This layout not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces time wasted searching for or manually installing pipette tips. The multiple universal sample slots 13 can hold sample containers of the same or different types according to the specific requirements of the experiment. Each universal sample slot 13 can accommodate various sizes of standard laboratory glassware, such as well plates (96-well plates, 384-well plates, etc.), centrifuge tubes, PCR tubes, and PCR 8-tube sets. This allows researchers to process multiple types of samples in the same experiment without frequently changing the sample tray 11 or adjusting equipment settings.
[0039] Furthermore, a consumables database is preferably included in the control module of the molecular interaction sample preparation system. This database stores the well coordinates and adhesion distances of different consumable types on each plate, enabling the instrument to automatically access this data during operation. This design ensures the system can accurately identify and adapt to various types of consumables, eliminating the need for users to manually input parameters each time, thus improving operational efficiency and accuracy. In addition, the system allows users to add new consumable information to the database according to their actual needs, greatly enhancing the system's flexibility and scalability. In this way, whether it's a standard 96-well plate, a 384-well plate, or a special centrifuge tube or PCR tube, the system can efficiently identify and process them, meeting diverse experimental requirements.
[0040] To further enhance the functionality of the molecular interaction sample preparation system and ensure efficient and accurate identification and processing of various types of consumables, a visual recognition or barcode scanning device can be added to the system. This device can be positioned on the horizontal support arm 26, the vertical bracket 25, or directly integrated into the composite moving device. It automatically identifies the type of consumable placed on the sample tray 11 and its specific parameters (such as well position coordinates and wall contact distance), thereby achieving rapid and accurate consumable configuration and automated operation. Through this design, the system can not only automatically access data from the consumable database but also dynamically update the database to adapt to new consumable types, greatly improving the system's flexibility and efficiency while reducing errors caused by human operation.
[0041] According to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the sample containers mentioned above preferably include one or more of the following: well plates, storage tanks, centrifuge tubes, PCR tubes, and 8-tube PCR tubes. Well plates (such as 96-well plates and 384-well plates) are typically used for high-throughput screening and serial dilution experiments; storage tanks are suitable for storing large quantities of liquid reagents, facilitating dispensing to other containers; centrifuge tubes are suitable for storing and processing small-volume samples; and PCR tubes and their 8-tube sets are commonly used in reaction systems with trace amounts of samples. By supporting these different types of sample containers, the system can flexibly handle various complex experimental designs without requiring equipment changes or cumbersome adjustments.
[0042] Furthermore, according to the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention, the universal sample position 13 is preferably equipped with: a first sample holder for compatible configuration of well plates or reservoirs; and a second sample holder for compatible configuration of centrifuge tubes or PCR tubes. The first sample holder preferably has an adjustable clamp or adapter, which can be adjusted according to the specific dimensions of the well plate or reservoir to ensure stable placement and accurate positioning during operation. For well plates, the sample holder can precisely align with the position of each well so that the pipetting module can accurately aspirate or release liquid; while for reservoirs, it provides sufficient space to accommodate large volumes of reagents and ensures that pipette tips can smoothly enter the reservoir for liquid dispensing. The second sample holder is also preferably equipped with a corresponding clamp or adapter to firmly fix centrifuge tubes and PCR tubes of various sizes, preventing movement or tipping during pipetting. It is understood that multiple types of sample holders can be pre-configured according to usage requirements. Through this multi-sample holder design, the molecular interaction sample preparation system of this invention not only enhances its support capability for various types of sample containers but also simplifies experimental preparation, improving the system's flexibility and applicability.
[0043] The molecular interaction sample preparation system according to a preferred embodiment of this utility model is designed to provide efficient, flexible, and precise sample processing capabilities. The display screen 27 is directly connected to the horizontal support arm 26, facilitating user operation and monitoring of the entire system's operating status. The support arm is connected to the eight-channel pipetting module 21 and the single-channel pipetting module 22 via lead screws, enabling precise movement of these two modules in the longitudinal and vertical directions. The base 10 is connected to the sample tray 11 via a slide rail, allowing the sample tray 11 to move freely in the lateral direction, thus achieving rapid positioning of sample containers at different locations. The sample tray 11 is equipped with a pipette tip holder 12 and three universal sample positions 13. These sample positions are compatible with standard consumables such as 96-well plates, 384-well plates, and storage tanks, and can be adapted to other types of containers such as centrifuge tubes, PCR tubes, and their 8-tube sets by changing the base 10. The system employs air displacement pipetting technology to ensure high precision and accuracy during the pipetting process.
[0044] Ideally, both the eight-channel pipetting module 21 and the single-channel pipetting module 22 achieve an accuracy of less than 3% error. Specifically, the eight-channel module has an accuracy of no more than 2%, while the single-channel module maintains an error of less than 3% when handling 10 μL of liquid and no more than 2% when handling 50 μL of liquid. It is understood that the error control of the pipetting modules can be further improved in practical applications based on specific needs. Regarding volume range, the eight-channel module is preferably capable of handling liquid transfers from trace amounts to up to 300 μL, while the single-channel module preferably covers a wide range of needs from 1 μL to 100 μL. Tip specifications can be flexibly selected according to experimental requirements; for example, the eight-channel module is compatible with 200 μL and 1000 μL tips, while the single-channel module can use 50 μL and 200 μL tips. Furthermore, the sample tray 11 is preferably designed with four universal sample positions in a 2x2 layout, which can efficiently handle various types of experimental consumables, including but not limited to SBS standard microplates (e.g., 96-well plates, 384-well plates), EP tubes (capacities of 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2 mL, respectively), PCR tubes and their 8-tube sets, and storage tanks. The system has a compact design, with overall dimensions not exceeding 460 mm x 380 mm x 500 mm (length x width x height), requiring a minimum operating space of 700 mm. The preferred power supply is a 220V AC input, with a frequency range of 50 to 60 Hz, and the system can operate stably in ambient temperatures between 10°C and 30°C, meeting the routine requirements of modern laboratories.
[0045] This molecular interaction sample preparation system ideally encompasses sample preparation, plate transfer, and a variety of practical tools. The sample preparation function supports various molecular interaction instruments, including surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometry (BLI), and microthermophoresis (MST), while also allowing for user-defined settings. Specifically, the SPR experiment includes an eight-channel gradient dilution function and a solvent-corrected sample preparation function by default. Gradient dilution can be performed using well plates or centrifuge tubes; while solvent correction uses a reservoir for liquid preparation before transfer to well plates or centrifuge tubes. The BLI experiment also features an eight-channel gradient dilution function, with consumable options including well plates or centrifuge tubes. The MST experiment primarily uses a single-channel dilution function, suitable for small containers such as PCR tubes and PCR 8-tube sets. Furthermore, the system ideally provides plate transfer functionality from 96-well to 384-well plates and is equipped with a series of tools such as a concentration conversion calculator and a molar concentration calculator, greatly facilitating experimental preparation and data analysis.
[0046] In actual operation, the system's instrument settings and operation are displayed on screen 27, with a clear and straightforward workflow. The startup interface serves as the user login screen. After logging in, users enter the function selection interface, where they can choose the sample dilution function and select the corresponding molecular interaction technology tag. Next, in the sample preparation settings interface, users can select the appropriate consumable type, plate position, and channel, and fill in relevant information such as dilution times, volume, and concentration. Users can also select functions such as adherence, pipetting, and tip replacement to optimize the experimental process. After confirming the settings, the system will display a prompt window guiding the user on how to place the pipette tip and consumables and prepare the sample. Once preparation is complete, the system will automatically begin the sample preparation process. After preparation, the system will not only display the concentration information for each well but also export detailed preparation methods for convenient subsequent experimental recording and analysis.
[0047] This invention provides a highly automated and multifunctional molecular interaction sample preparation platform. Whether it's high-throughput screening or micro-sample processing, both can be completed efficiently within this system, significantly improving experimental efficiency and the accuracy of results, meeting the high standards required for modern scientific research.
[0048] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "method," "specific method," or "some methods," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or method is included in at least one embodiment or method of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or method. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or methods. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or methods described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or methods.
[0049] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and not to limit it. Although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.
Claims
1. A molecular interaction sample preparation system for sample preparation and concentration preparation work for a molecular interaction instrument, characterized by, include: A base (10) is used to support a sample tray (11), which is used to place the sample container of the molecular interaction instrument. A composite pipetting device is disposed above the base (10), the composite pipetting device comprising: The eight-channel pipetting module (21) is used to perform simultaneous pipetting operations on multiple samples, and is suitable for batch sample processing and gradient dilution. A single-channel pipetting module (22) is used to transfer and dispense small-volume samples, suitable for micro-sample processing; A composite moving device is used to drive the eight-channel pipetting module (21) and the single-channel pipetting module (22) to move in the horizontal and vertical directions.
2. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 1, wherein, A lateral translation device is provided between the base (10) and the sample tray (11), the lateral translation device comprising: A slide rail is provided on the base (10), and the bottom of the sample tray (11) is slidably fitted onto the slide rail; A first driver is disposed on the base (10) and acts on the sample tray (11) to drive the sample tray (11) to move along the slide rail.
3. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 2, wherein, The composite mobility device includes: A longitudinal lead screw pair is used to drive the eight-channel pipetting module (21) and the single-channel pipetting module (22) to move in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the slide rail.
4. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 3, wherein, The eight-channel pipetting module (21) includes a multi-channel pipette tip holder for mounting pipette tips; The composite moving device includes a first vertical driver (23) for driving the multi-channel gun head base to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
5. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 3, wherein, The single-channel pipetting module (22) includes a single-channel tip holder for mounting pipetting tips; The composite moving device includes a second vertical actuator (24) for driving the single-channel gun head seat to move in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
6. The molecular interaction sample preparation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein Also includes: A vertical support (25) is fixed at its bottom end to the base (10); A horizontal support arm (26) is disposed at the top of the vertical support (25), and the composite moving device is disposed on the horizontal support arm (26).
7. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 6, wherein, Also includes: The display screen (27), located on the horizontal support arm (26), serves as the human-computer interaction port for the molecular interaction sample preparation system.
8. The molecular interaction sample preparation system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein The sample tray (11) is provided with: Pipette tip holder (12) is used to store the pipette tips to be assembled in an array; Multiple universal sample positions (13) are used to place the same or different types of sample containers.
9. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 8, wherein, The sample container includes one or more of the following: well plate, storage tank, centrifuge tube, and PCR tube.
10. The molecular interaction sample preparation system of claim 9, wherein, The universal sample position (13) is equipped with: A first sample holder is used to be compatible with the orifice plate or the liquid storage tank. The second sample holder is used to accommodate the centrifuge tube or the PCR tube.