Autosampler Arm Fluid Handling Assembly with Automated Pipet Tip Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic sampling systems, such as autosamplers, face challenges in preventing cross-contamination of biological samples due to insufficient rinsing of the sample probe, which can lead to contamination issues during analysis in instruments like ICP spectrometry.
Innovation Solution
A fluid handling assembly with automatic pipet tip coupling and decoupling, comprising a sampling arm, arm cover, probe carrier unit, and biasing spring, allows for the precise handling and removal of pipet tips, ensuring effective cleaning and preventing cross-contamination by using a probe release structure and a removal station for extended cleaning or disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the sample probe is rinsed between samples, then the sampling process can be automated and efficient, but cross-contamination occurs for certain samples such as biological samples
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the probe into two separate components: a reusable probe body and a disposable pipet tip. The pipet tip is segmented as a separate replaceable element that contacts the sample, while the probe body remains stationary and is not contaminated. This segmentation allows the sample-contacting portion to be discarded after use, eliminating cross-contamination while maintaining automated sampling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs disposable pipet tips that are inexpensive and single-use. Each tip is used for one sample and then discarded, ensuring no cross-contamination between samples. The disposable nature of the tips eliminates the need for extensive rinsing procedures while maintaining high sampling productivity, as new tips are quickly attached to the probe for each subsequent sample.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a disposable pipet tip is used for each sample, then cross-contamination is prevented, but the device complexity increases due to automatic coupling and decoupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through a simple biasing spring system. The spring automatically pushes the probe against the pipet tip during the sampling motion, creating a friction fit without requiring external actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The kinetic energy from the probe's movement into the tip provides the necessary force for coupling, and the spring maintains contact pressure throughout the sampling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical coupling systems with a simple friction-based interface. Instead of using threaded connections, bayonet mounts, or motorized clamps, the system relies on friction between the probe surface and the pipet tip opening. This friction fit is maintained by a simple biasing spring, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening mechanisms while ensuring reliable coupling during sampling.
3Strength
If the probe is lowered into the pipet tip to form a friction fit, then secure coupling is achieved, but precise positioning and control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The probe is lowered into the pipet tip with controlled kinetic energy, and the coupling strength develops dynamically as the probe penetrates the tip and the biasing spring compresses. The friction fit is not a fixed position but a dynamic state that maintains coupling strength throughout the sampling motion, allowing easy insertion and removal while ensuring secure coupling during use.
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
The fluid handling assembly effectively prevents cross-contamination by enabling automatic and controlled coupling and decoupling of pipet tips, ensuring thorough cleaning and reducing the risk of sample contamination, particularly for biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing spring can be carried within the arm cover and can contact the probe release structure. The biasing spring can be configured to bias the probe release structure to push the probe down toward the probe opening in the arm cover.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid handling assembly for selectively coupling and decoupling with a pipet tip can include a sampling arm, an arm cover, a probe carrier unit, a probe, and a biasing spring. The arm cover can be carried by the sampling arm. The probe carrier unit can be movably mounted within the arm cover, with the probe carrier unit including a probe release structure and a main probe carrier. The probe release structure and the main probe carrier can be interconnected. The probe can be carried by the main probe carrier and movable through a probe opening in the arm cover. The probe can be configured to releasably carry a pipet tip. The biasing spring can be carried within the arm cover and can contact the probe release structure. The biasing spring can bias the probe release structure to push the probe down toward the probe opening in the arm cover.