Dynamic Sample Pipetting Mechanism for Selective Preprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic analyzers require all samples to pass through a pretreating unit, even if preprocessing is not necessary, leading to unnecessary costs, space usage, and potential residual sample impacts on analytical results.
Innovation Solution
The automatic analyzer features a sample-pipetting mechanism that can access multiple positions without a fixed sample sucking/discharging position, allowing samples to be selectively pipetted into the analyzing unit based on preprocessing needs, with two mechanisms operating independently to minimize residual sample effects and optimize sample concentration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all samples are carried through the pretreating unit regardless of preprocessing need, then sample preprocessing can be performed when required, but installation space and costs increase unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic sample routing system where the sample carrying mechanism can selectively direct samples to either the pretreating unit or directly to the analyzing unit based on whether preprocessing is required. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt its pathway, making the pretreating unit optional rather than mandatory for all samples, thereby reducing unnecessary space occupation while maintaining preprocessing capability when needed.
2Quantity of substance
If samples are diluted with preprocessing liquid, then reagent consumption is reduced, but sample concentration changes affecting analytical sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by offering two distinct sample processing pathways: one where samples are diluted with preprocessing liquid (changing concentration parameters) to reduce reagent consumption, and another where samples are carried without dilution (maintaining original concentration) to preserve analytical sensitivity. The system can select the appropriate pathway based on the specific analytical requirements, thereby dynamically adjusting the concentration parameter to optimize either reagent efficiency or measurement precision as needed.
3Device complexity
If a fixed sample sucking/discharging position is used in pipetting mechanism, then mechanism structure is simplified, but the mechanism cannot access multiple pipetting positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic pipetting mechanism with movable sample sucking/discharging positions that can access multiple pipetting locations. This dynamic configuration allows a single pipetting mechanism to serve multiple functions: it can selectively suck samples from different positions and discharge them to appropriate destinations (pretreating unit or analyzing unit). The movability of the sample sucking/discharging position enables the mechanism to adapt to different operational requirements without increasing overall system complexity.
4Quantity of substance
If minimal quantity of sample is used for preprocessing reaction, then sample consumption is reduced, but residual sample in pretreating unit may affect analytical results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by creating separate, independent sample pathways: one pathway for samples requiring preprocessing (where minimal sample quantities are used) and another pathway for samples not requiring preprocessing (where full sample quantities are directly analyzed). This segmentation ensures that residual samples in the pretreating unit do not contaminate subsequent analyses, as samples bypassing the pretreating unit are not exposed to potential contaminants. The segmentation of pathways maintains both low sample consumption and high analytical reliability.
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 approach enables selective preprocessing, reduces operational complexity and costs, minimizes residual sample impacts, and improves analytical efficiency by allowing direct sample-reagent interaction, maintaining sample concentration and simplifying assay sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a sample-pipetting mechanism constructed to have a function that allows the mechanism to access a plurality of pipetting positions
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic analyzer of the type equipped with a sample preprocessing function pretreats a desired sample in a pretreating unit before pipetting the sample into an analyzing unit for analysis. When all samples are carried to the analyzing unit via the pretreating unit, irrespective of whether the sample is to be pretreated, this causes loss in terms of both costs and installation space requirements. In the case where the preprocessing is required, a minimal quantity of the sample is also necessary in order to make the sample react to the preprocessing liquid. In addition, the possible presence of a residual sample left in the pretreating unit could affect analytical results. The automatic analyzer which includes an analyzing unit and a pretreating unit further includes a sample-pipetting mechanism constructed to have a function that allows the mechanism to access a plurality of pipetting positions without a sample sucking/discharging position being fixed.