Crank-Slider Sample Loader with Double-Alignment Consumable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample loading methods for miniature fluidic systems, such as flow cytometers and chromatography systems, require large sample volumes and often result in sample wastage and contamination, with complex methods needed to achieve precise and bubble-free loading profiles.
Innovation Solution
A consumable with a double-alignment feature, tab for easy handling, and a capillary with a defined air pocket, combined with a mechanical loader featuring a crank-slider mechanism and spring-based seals, allows for one-handed operation and precise alignment, enabling efficient and bubble-controlled sample loading into miniature fluidic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional sample loading methods (syringe injection, flow-based sipping) are used, then sample can be introduced into the system, but large sample volumes are required and sample wastage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The sample loading system is segmented into distinct functional components: a consumable sample holder that contains the sample, a separate loader mechanism that introduces it, and a fluidic system that transports it. This segmentation allows precise control over sample volume introduction, requiring only 10-50 μL while minimizing wastage through the reusable loader design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample is pre-loaded into a consumable holder outside the main instrument before introduction. This preliminary action allows precise measurement and containment of the required small volume (10-50 μL) before it enters the flow system, eliminating the need for large volume reservoirs and reducing overall sample consumption.
2Reliability
If traditional sample loading methods are used, then sample can be introduced, but cross-contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is designed as a disposable consumable that is discarded after single use. This eliminates cross-contamination risk between samples while requiring minimal sample volume (10-50 μL) for each use, resolving the contradiction between reliability and sample wastage.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex loading methods (rotary valves, diaphragm valves) are used, then precise volume delivery is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex volume control functionality is extracted from the main instrument and transferred to the simple consumable sample holder through pre-loaded defined volumes. The reusable loader requires no valves or complex mechanisms, achieving precise volume delivery (10-50 μL) while minimizing device complexity.
4Speed
If bubbles are introduced during sample loading, then plug flow is achieved, but sample dilution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The consumable sample holder is designed with specific local features: a hydrophobic coating in the sample region and a hydrophilic coating in the loading region. This local quality differentiation enables controlled bubble formation at the interface between sample and carrier fluid, achieving plug flow in the sample region while limiting dilution to only the necessary loading volume (10-50 μL).
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 solution enables precise, low-cost, and easy-to-use sample loading with minimal sample wastage and contamination, achieving desired loading profiles that optimize analysis time and sample dilution in miniature fluidic systems.
Implementation Method 1
The bubble interface introduces plug flow on that side of the sample, whereas no bubble leads to a stretched sample as it goes through the system
Implementation Method 2
The bubble interface introduces plug flow on that side of the sample
Implementation Method 3
Both the consumable and the sample loader have specific geometries that either eliminate or introduce a bubble into the loaded sample
Data Source
AI summary
A sample consumable that carries a microvolume of sample to a sample loader. The consumable is precisely aligned utilizing a double-alignment feature to the loader. The loader is based on a crank-slider geometry and allows for simple, one-handed operation for the user. Overall, the consumable and sample loader increase reproducibility of in-line sample loading and offers ease-of-use.