Dual Fluid-Space Piston Displacement for Wide-Range Pipetting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated laboratory systems are limited to specific volume ranges, requiring multiple systems or pipetting arms for handling different liquid volumes, and cannot precisely aspirate or dispense volumes differing by more than a factor of 10 or 1000.
Innovation Solution
A displacement device with separate fluid spaces and pistons, actuated by the working fluid of a pipetting device, allows operation across different volume ranges by varying the displacement volume relative to the actuation volume, using pneumatic, hydraulic, or magnetic forces for piston movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single automated laboratory system is used for a specific volume range, then precise pipetting is achieved within that range, but the system cannot precisely aspirate and dispense liquid volumes that differ by more than a factor of 10 or 1000
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement device is segmented into two separate fluid spaces (first fluid space and second fluid space) with different volume capacities. The first fluid space handles smaller volumes while the second fluid space handles larger volumes, allowing the system to maintain precision across a broader overall volume range by selecting the appropriate segment for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated laboratory system is enhanced with a multi-functional displacement device that can operate in different volume ranges by utilizing its two fluid spaces. This allows a single system to perform multiple pipetting functions across different volume scales, eliminating the need for separate specialized systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple automated laboratory systems or pipetting arms are used to handle different volume ranges, then precise pipetting across various volumes is achieved, but device complexity and equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of multiple specialized pipetting systems into a single displacement device by integrating two fluid spaces with different volume capacities. This consolidation allows one system to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A single automated laboratory system is designed with universal capability to handle both small and large volume pipetting through the dual fluid space configuration, making the system adaptable to various volume requirements without needing additional specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuation volume of the first piston is made different from the displacement volume of the second piston, then operation across different volume ranges is enabled, but the device complexity increases due to separate fluid spaces and pistons
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement device is divided into two distinct fluid spaces, each with its own piston, allowing independent volume calibration. The first fluid space is optimized for small volume actuation while the second fluid space is optimized for larger volume displacement, enabling flexible operation across different volume ranges through selective engagement of appropriate segments.
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 precise aspiration and dispensing of fluid volumes across a wide range without the need for multiple systems or additional pipetting arms, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing equipment requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The first piston is actuatable by an actuation volume of the working fluid of the pipetting device
Implementation Method 2
The first piston is actuatable by an actuation volume of the working fluid of the pipetting device
Implementation Method 3
The second piston is actuated in dependence on the first piston being actuated by the actuation volume
Implementation Method 4
using pneumatic, hydraulic, or magnetic forces for piston movement
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~3b
Figure 4a~6
AI summary
A displacement device for displacing a displacement volume is provided. The device comprises a first fluid space and a second fluid space. A first piston is arranged in a movable manner within the first fluid space. The first fluid space is connectable to a pipetting device. The first piston is actuatable by an actuation volume of air or of liquid provided by the pipetting device. A second piston is arranged in a movable manner within the second fluid space. The second piston is constructed to displace a displacement volume of a fluid located within the second fluid space when the second piston is actuated. The second piston is actuated in dependence on the first piston that is actuated by the actuation volume. The actuation volume is different from the displacement volume. Furthermore, a pipetting system comprising a displacement device and a method of displacing a displacement volume are provided.