Systems and methods for detecting dispensed volume(s) based on reflected energy measurements

Abstract

A method is disclosed for monitoring a dispense-path channel to detect the presence of dispensed volumes of a substance. The method involves measuring the quantity of reflected energy from matter within the dispense-path channel. The measured quantity of reflected energy is then compared to a predefined threshold. Based on this comparison, a control signal is generated to indicate the presence of one or more dispensed volumes that have passed through the dispense- path channel. This method provides an efficient and reliable means of detecting dispensed volumes, allowing for accurate monitoring and control of substance dispensing processes.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING DISPENSED VOLUME(S) BASED ON REFLECTED ENERGY MEASUREMENTSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[1] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 622,237 filed January 18, 2024. The contents of the foregoing application are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein in its entirety.FIELD[2] This disclosure relates to sensors and detection systems, particularly, systems and methods for monitoring and determining if one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel.BACKGROUND[3] Various methods and systems have been developed for detecting if a volume of a substance has been dispensed. These methods typically require knowing certain substance properties, and / or dispense parameters, as well as obtaining sensor measurements to determine if the volume(s) was dispensed. However, these existing approaches have limitations and drawbacks that have hindered their effectiveness and accuracy.[4] Previous approaches for monitoring substance dispensing have typically relied on visual inspection or simple mechanical sensors. Visual inspection involves visual or optical observation to detect any dispensed volume(s), which is time-consuming and prone to human error (or expensive due to the need for automated visual recognition software, for example). Mechanical sensors, such as pressure sensors or flow meters, have been used to detect the presence of dispensed volumes based on changes in pressure or flow rate. However, these sensors are often limited intheir sensitivity and accuracy, and may not be able to detect small (e.g. nano or micro scale) or low-flow dispensed volumes.[5] Another approach involves using optical sensors to detect if a volume of a substance has been dispensed based on how much light is blocked (e.g., absorbed and refracted) by the substance as it is dispensed. These sensors emit light and measure the amount of light that is ultimately received by a receiver, and based on the difference, determine if a volume(s) was / were dispensed. However, this approach is often limited by the sensitivity of the optical sensors and / or the properties of the substance being observed (e.g., chemical properties influencing how much light is absorbed or refracted by a substance), which can lead to inaccurate results if these factors are not taken into consideration and known. Another significant limitation of this approach is that it must be tuned for either high sensitivity (e.g., the ability to detect smaller drops) or range (e.g., the ability to observe a relatively larger field or space). A larger emitter / receiver area or space allows for detection of a range of dispensed volumes; however, a larger emitter / receive area or space effectively lowers the percentage of light that can be blocked by the presence of small volume drop(s) and, therefore, decreases sensitivity. Conversely, a smaller emitter / receiver area or space allows for detection of relatively smaller volume drop(s); however, a smaller emitter / receiver area or space means that a drop(s) shifting slightly along the dispense path and outside the emitter / receiver area or space may not be detected[6] Another approach involves using pressure sensors to detect the movement of dispensed volumes through a dispense path. These sensors measure the pressure changes caused by the displacement of the substance as it travels. By analyzing the pressure data, it is possible to infer if a volume(s) was / were dispensed. However, this approach is often limited by: the need for precise calibration of the pressure sensors, and the potential for false positives or negatives due to variations in the substance's viscosity or other substance properties.[7] Another approach relies on the use of mechanical sensors or probes that physically interact with a dispensed volume(s) to detect movement and to infer if the substance was dispensed.These sensors may include contact-based mechanisms or devices that rely on changes in electrical conductivity or other physical properties. These approaches also can be cumbersome, prone to wear and tear, and may require frequent maintenance or calibration.[8] As such, none of the existing approaches have provided a comprehensive solution that combines the features described in this disclosure.SUMMARY[9] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance, the method including: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; comparing the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold; and sending a control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of determining if one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel, the method including: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel, including: if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than a predefined threshold, indicating that the one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel; or if the measured quantity of reflected energy is equal to or below the predefined threshold, indicating that no dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of detecting one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, the method including: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of asubstance in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes of the substance traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance, the system including: a dispense-path channel positioned to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel; and one or more receiver channels each having one or more electromagnetic receivers; wherein each of the one or more receiver channels is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into at least one receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels, and wherein the one or more electro-magnetic receivers are configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Many aspects of the present disclosure will be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. It should be recognized that these implementations and embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure. Therefore, in the drawings:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of an example method of monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes of a substance, according to the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of an example method for determining if one or more dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel, according to the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an example method of detecting one or more dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, according to the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an illustration of an example system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, according to the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 is an exploded, plan view of an illustration of an example head portion of a removable dispense sensor, according to the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure having a dispense-path channel, according to the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure, according to the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure, according to the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an illustration of an example system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, and showing an example of diffuse light from one transmitter to the other, according to the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an illustration of a theoretical structure for blocking point-source or diffuse electromagnetic energy from a receiver(s), according to the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device having a system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The presently disclosed subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The presently disclosed subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0026] Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms “comprise,” “comprises”, and “comprising” are used in a non-exclusive sense, except where the context requires otherwise. Likewise, the term “includes” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.I. Example Use Case Scenario

[0027] The systems and methods for monitoring, determining, and detecting according to the present disclosure present a novel approach, and one or more technical steps and / or solutions, to addressing the challenges and deficiencies in the prior art.

[0028] For example, in one aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure provide for monitoring and determining if one or more intentionally or unintentionally dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel.

[0029] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure are based, at least in part, on reflected electromagnetic energy measurements.

[0030] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure facilitate confirming that a dispensed volume(s) left a dispense nozzle and was set on a dispense path or trajectory.

[0031] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure help avoid waste and prevent unnecessary work or rework.

[0032] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure yield data that is important for functional or tracking purposes. The same data also is helpful, in another aspect, for purposes of optimizing dispense parameters and / or verifying aspects of the dispense event.

[0033] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure leverage electromagnetic energy, for example, visible light or ultraviolet light or infrared light, that is reflected off of the surface of a dispensed volume(s).

[0034] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure leverage diffused light (e.g. in contrast to point-source light).

[0035] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure have no need for specific information about the substance(s) being dispensed, e.g., have no need for information about the substance's viscosity or other substance properties.

[0036] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure can monitor, determine, and / or detect substance dispensing regardless of the type of substance being dispensed.

[0037] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure therelative strength of the reflected energy signal is used to estimate the relative dispensed volume.

[0038] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure have automation features, e.g., automatic substance class settings / dispense parameters for different detected substance viscosities, for example. In another aspect, the automation features are for monitoring, determining, and detecting dispense conditions / parameters at the dispense nozzle, for example.

[0039] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure include one or more detection channels and, in another aspect, any number of emitters and / or receivers are components of the detection channel(s).

[0040] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure include two or more detection channels that monitor the same area or space, for attempting to avoid environmental noise or artifact signals.

[0041] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure include two or more detection channels that are distinguished by the electromagnetic wavelengths of interest or based on the embedded frequencies in the same wavelength range.

[0042] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure include a detection channel(s) comprising a transmitter channel and / or a receiver channel.

[0043] In another aspect, systems and methods according to the present disclosure include a detection channel(s) comprising one or more transmitter channel(s) (for example, a transmitter channel across from a corresponding transmitter channel on the other side of the dispense-path channel; but not necessarily always situated on the same plan) and / or one or more receiver channel(s) (for example, one or more receiver channel situated longitudinally or laterally in a grouping at about the same location or region).II. Systems and Methods

[0044] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of detecting one or more dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, the method including: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the method also includes determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0045] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method further including providing a system for contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance.

[0046] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing includes the dispense-path channel.

[0047] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including providing a removable dispense sensor configured to be engaged to the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing, the removable dispense sensor including the dispense-path channel.

[0048] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including bolting the removable dispense sensor to a dispense arm of the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing.

[0049] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance using the system.

[0050] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, wherein performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance is unintentional.

[0051] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, wherein the measuring of the quantity of reflected energy occurs during a period of time when dispensing of the substance is not intended.

[0052] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, wherein the detecting canbe performed even if substance properties or dispense parameters are not known.

[0053] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including: positioning the dispense-path channel to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the method also includes the measuring step occurring in one or more receiver channels, each of the one or more receiver channels situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into a receiver channel.

[0054] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, wherein the determining is based on the measured quantity of reflected energy received by an electro-magnetic receiver. In another aspect, the measuring step to obtain the measured quantity includes measuring the quantity of reflected energy off of the liquid surface of a liquid droplet of a substance.

[0055] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including channeling electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength via a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

[0056] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including channeling electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength via a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

[0057] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, further including: situating a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the first receiver channel. In another aspect, the method also includes situating a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the second receiver channel.

[0058] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for monitoring a dispense- path channel for one or more dispensed volumes of a substance, the system including: a dispense- path channel positioned to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the system also includes one or more receiver channels each having one or more electro-magnetic receivers. In another aspect, the system also includes the one or more receiver channels situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into at least one receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels. In another aspect, the system also includes the one or more electro-magnetic receivers being configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy.

[0059] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for contactless or noncontact dispensing of the substance.

[0060] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing includes the dispense-path channel.

[0061] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein the system for monitoring is configured as a removable dispense sensor. In another aspect, the system also includes the removable dispense sensor being configured to be engaged to the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing. In another aspect, the system also includes the removable dispense sensor having the dispense-path channel.

[0062] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance includes a dispense arm. In another aspect, the system also includes the removable dispense sensor being configured to bolt on to the dispense arm.

[0063] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, further including acontroller communicatively coupled to the one or more electro-magnetic receivers and configured to: compare the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold. In another aspect, the controller also is configured to send a control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the control signal is based, at least in part, on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

[0064] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein the controller is further configured to send the control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than the predefined threshold.

[0065] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein the one or more transmitter channels each have one or more electro-magnetic transmitters.

[0066] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength. In another aspect, the first wavelength of electromagnetic energy is emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters.

[0067] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength. In another aspect, the second wavelength of electromagnetic energy is emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters of the second transmitter channel.

[0068] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels. In another aspect,the present disclosure provides a system, wherein a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels

[0069] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, wherein at least one electromagnetic receiver of the one or more electro-magnetic receivers is configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy of one or more embedded frequencies in electromagnetic energy of one or more wavelengths.III. With Reference to the Figures

[0070] The term “dispense path” is used herein for convenience, and is used to refer to the path traveled by a volume of a substance when dispensed, for example, from an outlet, nozzle, or pipette. In one aspect, a discrete packet / droplet of a liquid substance falling or ejected in a laboratory setting, area, or space (into, for example, laboratory plates, wells, or other lab ware) follows a dispense path. In another aspect, at least a portion of a dispense path may traverse structures and system, and / or components thereof, according to the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of an example method of monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes of a substance according to the present disclosure, the method 100 including the following.

[0072] At step 110, the method 100 includes measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel. In one aspect, a dispense-path channel is a structure through which at least a portion of a dispense path travels, or a structure alongside at least a portion of a dispense path. In another aspect, a dispense path channel defines a cylindrical space, and at least a portion of the dispense path is set through the cylindrical space. In another aspect, the dispense path channel defines any shaped space.

[0073] Moreover, in one aspect, although there is always matter in the dispense-path channel (e.g., during and in between intentional and unintentional dispensing events), the reflected energy measurement device and, specifically the reflected energy receivers, are situated such that only dispensed volumes traveling through the dispense path channel would result in a meaningful reflected energy measurement.

[0074] Returning generally to the method of FIG. 1, and at step 120, the method 100 also includes comparing the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold.

[0075] Next, at step 130, the method 100 also includes sending a control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

[0076] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of an example method for determining if one or more dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel, the method 200 including the following:

[0077] At step 210, the method 200 includes measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel.

[0078] Next, at step 220, the method 200 includes determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel. In one aspect, the determining step includes, if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than a predefined threshold, indicating that the one or more dispensed volumes of a substance(s) traveled through the dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the determining step includes, if the measured quantity of reflected energy is equal to or below the predefined threshold, indicating that no dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0079] Moreover, in another aspect, the determining step includes, if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than or equal to a predefined threshold, indicating that the one ormore dispensed volumes of a substance(s) traveled through the dispense-path channel. In another aspect, the determining step includes, if the measured quantity of reflected energy is below the predefined threshold, indicating that no dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0080] Furthermore, in another aspect, the predefined threshold is based at least in part on an average measured quantity of reflected energy during non-dispense events or inactivity or baseline / background. In another aspect, the predefined threshold is based at least in part on the measure quantity of reflected energy of two or more measurements devices, structures, or detection channels. In another aspect, the predefined threshold is remotely collected and / or store and / or accessed.

[0081] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an example method of detecting one or more dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, the method 300 including the following.

[0082] At step 310, the method 300 includes measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of a substance in a dispense-path channel.

[0083] Next, at step 320, the method 300 includes determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes of the substance traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0084] Other methods will be described herein, and will be discernible from the following detailed description of systems and components according to the present disclosure.

[0085] Turning now to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an illustration of an example system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, according to the present disclosure. In particular, in one aspect, the system 400 is configured as a bolt on, clip on, or snap on removable dispense sensor 401 for a dispensing device such as, for example, a non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device (best seen in FIG. 11).

[0086] In particular, in another aspect, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the removable dispense sensor 401 includes a base portion 410 having an electric contact(s) 412 for communication with any corresponding dispensing device such as, for example, a non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device (best seen in FIG. 11). Moreover, in another aspect, the removable dispense sensor 401 also includes a head portion 420 having a cover 422, a sensor board 430, and a sensor structure 440, altogether with the base portion 410, defining a dispense-path channel 450 therethrough.

[0087] Turning now to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 is an exploded, plan view of an illustration of an example head portion of a removable dispense sensor, according to the present disclosure. In one aspect, the head portion 520 includes a sensor board 530 and a sensor structure 540. Electronic devices for the sensor functionalities described herein are operatively embedded into the sensor board 530, and the sensor structure 540 has corresponding structures and features that facilitate the sensor functionalities. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the sensor board 530 includes a visible light receiver 531 (e.g. visible photo sensor in the illustrated example), an infra-red receiver 532 (e.g. an IR photo sensor in the illustrated example), a pair of infra-red transmitters 533 (e.g. IR LED in the illustrated example), and a pair of visible light transmitters 534 (e.g. White / Green LED in the illustrated example) electric contact(s) 556 for communication with any corresponding base portion of the removable dispense sensor. In another aspect, each of the transmitters is within a corresponding transmitter channel, and each of the receivers is within a corresponding receiver channels.

[0088] As such, in one aspect, the dispense-path channel 550 is positioned to intersect with the one or more transmitter channels 542, and each of the one or more transmitter channels 542 is configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening 546 defined by a substrate wall 545, and across the dispense-path channel 550. In another aspect, the dispense-path channel 550 is positioned to intersect with the one or more receiver channels 544. Moreover, in anotheraspect, each of the one or more transmitter channels 542 has one or more transmitters 533, 534. Furthermore, in another aspect, each of the one or more receiver channels 544 has one or more receivers 531, 532. Furthermore, in another aspect, at least one transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels 542 is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength (e.g., IR wavelength emitted by a IR LED). In another aspect, at least one transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels 542 is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength (e.g., Visible wavelength emitted by a White / Green LED).

[0089] In another aspect, as illustrated in FIG. 5, a first receiver channel 547 corresponding to the first wavelength (e.g., corresponding to the visible light receiver 531) is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of matter (best seen in FIG. 11 as the drop falls through the dispense-path channel 1150) in the dispense-path channel 550 are reflected into the corresponding receiver channel(s) 542 (e.g., corresponding to the visible light transmitters 534), and wherein a second receiver channel 548 corresponding to the second wavelength (e.g. corresponding to the infra-red receiver 532) is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel 550 are reflected into the corresponding receiver channel(s) (e.g., corresponding to the infra-red transmitters 533).

[0090] Turning to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure having a dispense-path channel, according to the present disclosure. In particular, in one aspect, the sensor structure 640 is similar to the sensor structure 540 of FIG. 5 except for the following differences.

[0091] In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the sensor structure 640 only has a receiver channel arrangement 648 (including a pair of transmitter channels 642 and a receiver channel 644) that is similar to the one shown for the sensor structure 540 of FIG. 5. In another aspect, the sensor structure 640 does not have a second receiver channel arrangement (unlike the sensor structure 540 of FIG. 5 which has two). In another aspect, the sensor structure defines a dispense-pathchannel 650.

[0092] Turning to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure, according to the present disclosure. In particular, in one aspect, the sensor structure 740 is similar to the sensor structure 740 of FIG. 5 except for the following differences.

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the pair of transmitter channels 742 are separated and each situated opposite the other across the dispense-path channel 750. In another aspect, the pair of transmitter channels 742 and the receiver channel 744 form a T formation in the cross-sectional plane. In another aspect, the sensor structure 740 has a receiver channel arrangement 748 (including the pair of transmitter channels 742 and the receiver channel 744) that is similar to the one shown for the sensor structure 540 of FIG. 5.

[0094] Turning to FIG. 8, FIG. 8 is a top, plan view of an illustration of an example sensor structure, according to the present disclosure. In particular, in one aspect, the sensor structure 840 is similar to the sensor structure 540 of FIG. 5 except for the following differences.

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the pair of transmitter channels 842 are separated and each situated opposite the other across the dispense-path channel 850. In another aspect, the pair of transmitter channels 842 and the receiver channel 844 form an M formation in the cross-sectional plane. The M formation, in one aspect, allows for the channeling of diffuse electromagnetic energy across the dispense-path channel 850 (e.g., the drop area) such that very little to no diffuse electromagnetic energy is likely to be reflected towards the receiver channel unless a dispensed volume is traveling through the dispense-path channel and the cross-sectional plane (best seen in FIGS. 9 and 10; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an illustration of an example system 900 for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, and showing an example of diffuse light from one transmitter to the other; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an illustration of a theoretical structure 1000 for blocking point-source or diffuse electromagnetic energy from a receiver(s)). In another aspect, the sensor structure 840 has a receiver channel arrangement 848(including the pair of transmitter channels 842 and the receiver channel 844).

[0096] Turning to FIG. 11, FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device having a system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes, according to the present disclosure. In particular, in one aspect, the contactless droplet dispensing device 1 includes a bolt on removable dispense sensor 1101 and fluidic chip 10 for dispensing a volume through the dispense-path channel 1150 of the removable dispense sensor 1101 and into the receptacle 1180.

[0097] In particular, in another aspect, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the removable dispense sensor 1101 includes a base portion 1110 having an electric contact(s) for communication with the non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device 1. Moreover, in another aspect, the removable dispense sensor 1101 also includes a head portion 1120 having a cover 1122.

[0098] In another aspect, the removable dispense sensor 1101 includes at least one receiver channel corresponding to a first wavelength. Moreover, in another aspect, the receiver channel(s) is / are situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength are reflected off of any dispensed volumes (e.g., drops from the fluidic chip 10 of the non-contact or contactless droplet dispensing device 1) fall through the dispense-path channel 1150, and are reflected into the corresponding receiver channel(s).IV. Embodiments

[0099] Certain implementations of systems and methods consistent with the present disclosure are provided as claim clauses that are identical to the claims but with the word “clause(s)” replacing “claim(s).

[0100] Clause 1. A method of monitoring a dispense-path channel, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; comparing the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold; and sending a control signalindicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

[0101] Clause 2. A method of determining if one or more dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel, comprising: if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than a predefined threshold, indicating that the one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel; or if the measure quantity of reflected energy is equal to or below the predefined threshold, indicating that no dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0102] Clause 3. A method of detecting one or more dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of a substance in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes of the substance traveled through the dispense-path channel.

[0103] Clause 4. The method of clause 3, further comprising providing a system for contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance.

[0104] Clause 5. The method of clause 4, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing comprises the dispense-path channel.

[0105] Clause 6. The method of clause 4, further comprising providing a removable dispense sensor, the removable dispense sensor configured to be engaged to the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing, the removable dispense sensor comprising the dispense- path channel.

[0106] Clause 7. The method of clause 6, further comprising bolting the removabledispense sensor to a dispense arm of the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing.

[0107] Clause 8. The method of clause 4, further comprising performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance using the system.

[0108] Clause 9. The method of clause 8, wherein performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance is unintentional.

[0109] Clause 10. The method of clause 3, wherein the measuring of the quantity of reflected energy occurs during a period of time when dispensing of the substance is not intended.[HO] Clause 11. The method of clause 3, wherein the detecting can be performed even if substance properties or dispense parameters are not known.[Hl] Clause 12. The method of clause 3, further comprising: positioning the dispense- path channel to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel; wherein the measuring occurs in one or more receiver channels, each of the one or more receiver channels situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into a receiver channel.

[0112] Clause 13. The method of clause 12, wherein the determining is based on the measured quantity of reflected energy received by an electro-magnetic receiver.

[0113] Clause 14. The method of clause 12, further comprising channeling electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength via a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

[0114] Clause 15. The method of clause 14, further comprising channeling electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength via a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

[0115] Clause 16. The method of clause 15, further comprising: situating a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the first receiver channel; and situating a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the second receiver channel.

[0116] Clause 17. A system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes of a substance, the system comprising: a dispense-path channel positioned to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel; and one or more receiver channels each having one or more electro-magnetic receivers; wherein each of the one or more receiver channels is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into at least one receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels, and wherein the one or more electro-magnetic receivers are configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy.

[0117] Clause 18. The system of clause 17, wherein the system for monitoring is configured as a removable dispense sensor, wherein the removable dispense sensor is configured to be engaged to a system for contactless or non-contact dispensing, and wherein the removable dispense sensor comprises the dispense-path channel.

[0118] Clause 19. The system of clause 18, wherein the system for contactless or noncontact dispensing of the substance comprises a dispense arm, and wherein the removable dispense sensor is configured to bolt on to the dispense arm.

[0119] Clause 20. The system of clause 17, further comprising a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more electro-magnetic receivers and configured to: compare the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold; and send a controlsignal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

[0120] Clause 21. The system of clause 20, wherein the controller is further configured to send the control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than the predefined threshold.

[0121] Clause 22. The system of clause 20, wherein the one or more transmitter channels each have one or more electro-magnetic transmitters.

[0122] Clause 23. The system of clause 22, wherein a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength, the first wavelength of electromagnetic energy emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters.

[0123] Clause 24. The system of clause 23, wherein a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength, the second wavelength of electromagnetic energy emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters of the second transmitter channel.

[0124] Clause 25. The system of clause 24, wherein a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels, and wherein a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels.

[0125] Clause 26. The system of clause 20, wherein at least one electro-magnetic receiver of the one or more electro-magnetic receivers is configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy of one or more embedded frequencies in electromagnetic energy of one or more wavelengths.

[0126] It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the abovedescribed embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSTherefore, the following is claimed:

1. A method of monitoring a dispense-path channel, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; comparing the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold; and sending a control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

2. A method of determining if one or more dispensed volumes of a substance traveled through a dispense-path channel, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of matter in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel, comprising: if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than a predefined threshold, indicating that the one or more dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel; or if the measure quantity of reflected energy is equal to or below the predefined threshold, indicating that no dispensed volumes traveled through the dispense-path channel.

3. A method of detecting one or more dispensed volumes of a substance based on reflected energy measurements, the method comprising: measuring a quantity of reflected energy off of a substance in a dispense-path channel; and determining, based on the measured quantity of reflected energy, if one or more dispensed volumes of the substance traveled through the dispense-path channel.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising providing a system for contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing comprises the dispense-path channel.

6. The method of claim 4, further comprising providing a removable dispense sensor, the removable dispense sensor configured to be engaged to the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing, the removable dispense sensor comprising the dispense-path channel.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising bolting the removable dispense sensor to a dispense arm of the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing.

8. The method of claim 4, further comprising performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance using the system.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein performing contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance is unintentional.

10. The method of claim 3, wherein the measuring of the quantity of reflected energy occurs during a period of time when dispensing of the substance is not intended.

11. The method of claim 3, wherein the detecting can be performed even if substance properties or dispense parameters are not known.

12. The method of claim 3, further comprising: positioning the dispense-path channel to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel; wherein the measuring occurs in one or more receiver channels, each of the one or more receiver channels situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into a receiver channel.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the determining is based on the measured quantity of reflected energy received by an electro-magnetic receiver.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising channeling electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength via a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising channeling electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength via a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: situating a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the first receiver channel; and situating a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of the one or more dispensed volumes are reflected into the second receiver channel.

17. A system for monitoring a dispense-path channel for one or more dispensed volumes of a substance, the system comprising: a dispense-path channel positioned to intersect with one or more transmitter channels, each of the one or more transmitter channels configured to channel electromagnetic energy to and out of an opening defined by a substrate wall, and across the dispense-path channel; and one or more receiver channels each having one or more electro-magnetic receivers; wherein each of the one or more receiver channels is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into at least one receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels, and wherein the one or more electro-magnetic receivers are configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the system for monitoring is configured as a removable dispense sensor, wherein the removable dispense sensor is configured to be engaged to a system for contactless or non-contact dispensing, and wherein the removable dispense sensor comprises the dispense-path channel.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the system for contactless or non-contact dispensing of the substance comprises a dispense arm, and wherein the removable dispense sensor is configured to bolt on to the dispense arm.

20. The system of claim 17, further comprising a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more electro-magnetic receivers and configured to: compare the measured quantity of reflected energy to a predefined threshold; and send a control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel based on the comparison of the measured quantity of reflected energy to the predefined threshold.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to send the control signal indicative of one or more dispensed volumes having traveled through the dispense-path channel if the measured quantity of reflected energy is greater than the predefined threshold.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the one or more transmitter channels each have one or more electro-magnetic transmitters.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein a first transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a first wavelength, the first wavelength of electromagnetic energy emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein a second transmitter channel of the one or more transmitter channels is configured to channel electromagnetic energy of a second wavelength, the second wavelength of electromagnetic energy emitted by at least one of the one or more transmitters of the second transmitter channel.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein a first receiver channel corresponding to the first transmitter channel is situated such that quanta of electromagnetic energy of the first wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense-path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels, and wherein a second receiver channel corresponding to the second transmitter channel is situated such that quanta ofelectromagnetic energy of the second wavelength reflected off of matter in the dispense- path channel are reflected into the first receiver channel of the one or more receiver channels.

26. The system of claim 20, wherein at least one electro-magnetic receiver of the one or more electro-magnetic receivers is configured to measure the quantity of reflected energy of one or more embedded frequencies in electromagnetic energy of one or more wavelengths.

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