Deformable Microtiter Well for Spillage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The stability of convex droplets in microtiter plate wells is low, leading to spillage issues, especially with fluids of low surface tension, and prepackaging is complex, making it difficult to handle microtiter plates without spillage.
Innovation Solution
A deformable well structure for microtiter plates that converts a concave meniscus to a convex shape using a shape-memory polymer tubular wall with a circumferentially extending bellows section and a deformation tool, allowing for controlled deformation from concave to convex.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wells are accurately filled to achieve convex menisci, then fluidic contact with the upper plate is facilitated, but the stability of the droplets is low and they are prone to spilling
Solution Approach 1:
The well structure is made deformable, transitioning from a static to a dynamic system. The well can change its shape between concave and convex configurations based on operational needs, allowing the system to adapt its properties rather than being fixed in one state
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the well (from concave to convex shape) to alter the meniscus configuration. This parameter change enables control over droplet stability and fluidic contact properties by transforming the well's curvature
2Ease of operation
If convex droplets are used for fluidic contact, then contact with the upper plate is achieved, but prepackaging becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reagents and biological samples can be prepackaged in the deformable wells in advance at a convenient time, and the meniscus shape can be converted to convex only when needed for the assay, eliminating the need for complex prepackaging procedures
3Ease of operation
If convex menisci are used, then fluidic contact is facilitated, but spillage occurs especially with fluids of low surface tension
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the well shape based on operational requirements. The well is deformable to transition between concave (stable, no spillage) and convex (fluidic contact) states, allowing optimal configuration for each operational phase
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 prepackaging of reagents and biological samples, simplifies handling, and prevents spillage by maintaining a stable convex meniscus, facilitating manipulation of microtiter plates without risk of fluid loss.
Implementation Method 1
A deformable well structure for microtiter plates that converts a concave meniscus to a convex shape using a shape-memory polymer tubular wall
Data Source
AI summary
A deformable well structure for a microtiter plate and method are provided. The deformable well structure includes a sample container defining a well for receiving a sample therein. The sample received in the well has a concave meniscus. A deformation tool is engageable with the sample container and is moveable between a first disengaged position wherein the deformation tool is spaced from the sample container and a second, engaged position wherein the deformation tool engages and deforms at least a portion of the sample container such that the meniscus of the sample in the well is converted from concave to convex.