Dispensing Probe Surface State Evaluation via Coloring Matter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for evaluating the surface state of dispensing probes in automatic analysis apparatuses are time-consuming and inefficient, requiring preparation of separate coloring matter solutions and involving difficulties in assessing the surface cleanliness effectively.
Innovation Solution
A test method where a coloring matter solution and a solution without coloring matter are pre-dispensed into separate containers, allowing for repeated suction and discharge by a second dispensing probe to evaluate the surface state by measuring the amount of coloring matter collected, without the need for additional equipment or preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a coloring matter solution is dispensed and then a solution without coloring matter is dispensed to evaluate the surface state of the dispensing probe, then the surface cleanliness can be evaluated, but the test time becomes long due to requiring preparation of separate bottles and removing them after the test
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coloring matter solution and the solution without coloring matter into a single bottle with separate storage compartments. This merging eliminates the need to prepare and handle multiple separate bottles, reducing test preparation time and simplifying the evaluation process while maintaining the ability to accurately assess surface cleanliness through sequential dispensing of both solutions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-fills both the coloring matter solution and the solution without coloring matter into the single bottle before the test begins. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site mixing or separate preparation steps during the actual test, significantly reducing test time while ensuring the solutions are ready for immediate sequential dispensing and evaluation
2Productivity
If a washing unit washes the dispensing probe with washing water and the washing capability is evaluated from the amount of coloring matter collected, then the washing performance can be assessed, but information on the surface state of the probe cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a coloring matter as an intermediary substance that adheres to the dispensing probe surface during the test. This intermediary allows the washing unit to not only clean the probe but also leave a measurable trace (coloring matter) that provides information about the surface state. The amount and distribution of coloring matter collected during washing directly reflect both the washing effectiveness and the probe surface characteristics
3Measurement precision
If separate bottles of coloring matter solution and solution without coloring matter are prepared for the test, then the surface state evaluation can be performed, but the device complexity increases due to additional preparation and removal steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the storage of coloring matter solution and solution without coloring matter into a single integrated bottle with separate compartments. This design eliminates the need for multiple separate bottles, reducing the complexity of test setup, handling, and removal while maintaining the functional requirement of having both solutions available for sequential dispensing and accurate surface state evaluation
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
This method significantly reduces test time and labor, providing a more efficient evaluation of the dispensing probe's surface state with improved reliability and sensitivity, while minimizing the need for new materials or equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a second solution in which a coloring matter is not dissolved is dispensed to a second container in advance by the first dispensing probe and then the first solution and the second solution are respectively sucked and discharged by a second dispensing probe. After that, the surface state of the second dispensing probe is evaluated by acquiring an amount of the coloring matter collected by the second solution.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a test method capable of efficiently performing a step of evaluating a surface state of a dispensing probe provided in a dispensing apparatus. In the test method according to the present invention, a first solution in which a coloring matter is dissolved is dispensed to a first container in advance by a first dispensing probe, a second solution in which a coloring matter is not dissolved is dispensed to a second container in advance by the first dispensing probe and then the first solution and the second solution are respectively sucked and discharged by a second dispensing probe. After that, a surface state of the second dispensing probe is evaluated by acquiring an amount of the coloring matter collected by the second solution (see FIG. 2).