Bioprinting Positioner With Pressure-Controlled Spheroid Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bioprinting techniques face challenges in precisely positioning micro-tumors, tissues, or spheroids, with existing systems lacking portability, versatility, and precision, and often requiring manual intervention prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable, and attachable micro tumor/tissue positioning device that can be integrated with existing extrusion-based bioprinters, featuring interchangeable syringe or pipette tips, pressure control mechanisms, and programmable controls for precise positioning of micro tissues and spheroids, allowing both solid and liquid-assisted transfer modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning of spheroids is used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but positioning precision deteriorates due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positioning device with a holder and positioning member as an intermediary tool between the operator and the spheroid. The positioning member with adjustable position and configuration allows precise control of spheroid placement while maintaining operational flexibility through manual adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct manual manipulation with a mechanical positioning system that uses a holder and positioning member mechanism. This mechanical substitution eliminates human error in positioning while preserving operational flexibility through adjustable mechanical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing bioprinter systems are used, then comprehensive bioprinting functions are available, but portability and adaptability deteriorate due to fixed system design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the bioprinting system into modular components: a positioning device with holder, a positioning member, and an interchangeable tip. This segmentation allows the positioning device to be attached to or detached from existing bioprinters, providing adaptability without requiring a complete fixed system.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed with universal attachment capability to work with existing extrusion-based bioprinters. The interchangeable tip and adjustable positioning member allow the same device to adapt to different bioprinter models and applications, enhancing versatility without increasing overall system complexity.
3Strength
If rigid scaffolds are used for tissue engineering, then structural support is provided, but cell penetration and uniform patterning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a positioning member with adjustable position and configuration rather than a fixed rigid structure. This dynamic adjustment capability allows optimization of positioning parameters to achieve uniform patterning while maintaining adequate structural support during the bioprinting process.
4Productivity
If high-throughput positioning is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity and programmability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a sensor that detects the position of the positioning member and provides feedback to the controller. This feedback mechanism enables automated high-throughput positioning by allowing the controller to adjust positioning parameters based on real-time position information, achieving productivity gains without excessive programmability complexity.
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 high-throughput, precise, and versatile positioning of micro tissues and spheroids, enhancing bioprinting capabilities with flexibility for various applications, including drug and radiation studies, while maintaining sample integrity and viability.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure control mechanism to selectively apply negative pressure to aspirate samples into the interchangeable syringe and positive pressure to deposit the samples
Data Source
AI summary
A novel portable, and attachable device allows precise positioning of micro-tissues, tumor spheroids, and other biological samples during bioprinting. The device features an interchangeable connector for handling samples of various sizes and uses a manually adjustable pressure system for suction and deposition. A programmable control unit coordinates pressure and positioning based on input commands, enhancing accuracy and consistency in tissue handling. Compatible with multiple bioprinter systems and supporting both manual and automated operation, it streamlines workflows and improves user experience. This device addresses challenges in high-throughput biological positioning, critical for tissue engineering, clinical, pharmaceutical, and research applications. It supports advancements in customized medicine, biological models, and environmental monitoring, meeting the growing demand for precise biologic handling in the multi-billion-dollar bioprinting and biopsy markets. The device offers superior control over tissue biopsy positioning compared to current manual devices reliant on operator skill.