Acoustic-Ejection Sample Containers for Uniform Droplet Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample containers are not adapted for efficient acoustic ejection and analysis, leading to challenges in handling, preservation, and miniaturization of biological samples, particularly due to non-uniform acoustic paths, scattering, and degradation issues.
Innovation Solution
Design of sample containers with integrated inlets and outlets for acoustic ejection, using acoustic coupling materials and movable transducers to facilitate uniform acoustic propagation and droplet transfer, along with internal structures like floats for component separation and preservation additives to maintain sample integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional sample containers are used for acoustic ejection, then sample transfer can be performed, but acoustic energy propagation is non-uniform and scattering occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with a specific geometric shape (e.g., cylindrical with flat bottom) and acoustic coupling members positioned at particular locations to create uniform acoustic paths. The acoustic coupling material is applied selectively at the bottom surface where acoustic energy enters, ensuring localized optimization of acoustic transmission without affecting other container functions.
Solution Approach 2:
An acoustic coupling member or acoustic coupling material is introduced as an intermediary between the acoustic transducer and the sample container. This intermediary component facilitates uniform acoustic energy transmission from the transducer through the container bottom to the sample, reducing scattering and improving acoustic path uniformity.
2Ease of operation
If manual pipetting is used for sample transfer, then sample handling is simple, but labor intensity is high and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical pipetting operations are replaced with an acoustic field-based droplet ejection system. The acoustic transducer generates acoustic waves that directly eject droplets from the sample container, eliminating the need for mechanical contact with pipettes or tips while maintaining simple operation through automated acoustic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample container is designed to work with the acoustic ejection system, where the container itself facilitates droplet ejection through its acoustic coupling properties. The container structure and acoustic coupling members enable the sample to be transferred automatically through acoustic fields without requiring external mechanical intervention.
3Quantity of substance
If sample volume is reduced for miniaturization, then reagent consumption decreases, but transfer precision becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic ejection system applies controlled acoustic energy to eject only the required portion of the sample as discrete droplets. By using partial action (ejecting specific droplet volumes rather than transferring entire samples), the system achieves precise transfer of small volumes while maintaining control over transfer accuracy through acoustic parameter adjustment.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If sample storage time is extended, then more tests can be performed, but sample degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic ejection system enables preliminary transfer of samples to multiple destination containers or test plates immediately after collection. By performing sample distribution in advance, the system allows parallel processing of multiple tests without extending sample storage time, thereby maintaining sample integrity while enabling extended testing workflows.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient acoustic ejection and analysis of biological samples, reducing manual handling, minimizing degradation, and allowing miniaturization while maintaining sample homogeneity and compatibility with downstream assays.
Implementation Method 1
an outlet configured to allow one or more droplets of the liquid sample to exit the sample container by one or more acoustic ejections
Implementation Method 2
using acoustic coupling materials and movable transducers to facilitate uniform acoustic propagation and droplet transfer
Data Source
AI summary
Sample container for holding and transferring a liquid sample and method thereof. The sample container includes an inlet configured to allow a liquid sample to enter a sample container, and an outlet configured to allow one or more droplets of the liquid sample to exit the sample container by one or more acoustic ejections respectively. The inlet and the outlet are in different locations.