Automated Analyzer Dispensing Tip Imaging Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analyzers face challenges in accurately controlling the dispensing position of samples due to contamination of the imaging mechanism when the dispensing tip is imaged from below.
Innovation Solution
The automatic analyzer images the dispensing tip from above to prevent contamination of the imaging mechanism, allowing for accurate determination of the tip's position and correction of any deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the dispensing tip is imaged from below to detect position deviation, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the imaging mechanism becomes contaminated by liquid falling from the tip
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the imaging direction from below to above the dispensing tip. By imaging the tip from above, the liquid that falls from the tip does not contaminate the imaging mechanism, while still allowing detection of the tip's position deviation from the center of the holder through image processing
2Quantity of substance
If the sample container diameter is reduced to decrease dead volume, then the sample amount is reduced, but the alignment between stop position and dispensing position becomes more critical and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment methods with an optical imaging system. By using an imaging unit to detect the position of the dispensing tip relative to the holder center and automatically calculating correction values, the system achieves high alignment precision without requiring mechanical precision in the alignment mechanism itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the imaging unit continuously monitors the dispensing tip position, compares it with the holder center position, and automatically adjusts the stop position based on the detected deviation. This closed-loop control ensures accurate alignment even with reduced sample container dimensions
Data Source
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AI summary
In a case where a dispensing tip is imaged from below, liquid attached to the tip falls downward and contaminates an imaging mechanism. An automatic analyzer includes: a buffer that has a hole for holding a tip for dispensing, the hole passing through the tip; a probe for dispensing having a tip to which the tip is attached; an imaging unit that images the tip; and a controller that controls the tip such that the tip is mounted on the probe by pressing the probe against the tip that passes through the hole to be held by the buffer, in which the imaging unit is disposed to image the tip from an upper side to a lower side in a gravity direction.