Handheld Electronic Pipettor with RFID Positioning Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample distribution systems in laboratories face challenges in balancing complexity, cost, precision, and throughput, with fully automated robots being expensive and complex, while manual systems are prone to errors and require significant operator input.
Innovation Solution
A sample distribution system comprising a hand-held electronic pipettor that can control a positioning device, allowing for relative movement between the pipettor and a target container, enabling automated operation without the need for complex programming or external energy sources, and allowing for manual operation independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fully automated robotic systems are used for sample distribution, then precision and throughput are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent functional modules: a hand-held distribution apparatus for sample handling and a positioning device for spatial control. The distribution apparatus retains manual operation capability while the positioning device provides automated positional control through a control link (e.g., RFID reader-writer system). This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automated precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution apparatus is designed to be self-controlled through its integrated control unit that can autonomously execute distribution sequences. The positioning device works in coordination with the distribution apparatus's own control system rather than requiring an external centralized controller, allowing the system to self-manage the distribution process with minimal external intervention.
2Productivity
If fully automated robotic systems are used for sample distribution, then throughput is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex programming requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device is pre-configured with positional information about the target container (e.g., well plate geometry, well positions) stored in its control unit. The distribution sequence is pre-programmed in the distribution apparatus. When these pre-configured systems are linked together, automated high-throughput operation is achieved without requiring complex real-time programming or operator intervention during execution.
Solution Approach 2:
A control link acts as an intermediary between the distribution apparatus and positioning device, using technologies like RFID readers/writers to automatically exchange positional and operational data. This intermediary enables coordinated automated operation without requiring the operator to manually program the interaction between components, simplifying operation while maintaining high throughput.
3Measurement precision
If stationary automated robots are used for sample distribution, then precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a stationary rigid configuration to a dynamic mobile configuration. The positioning device includes movable components (e.g., movable platform, adjustable positioning mechanisms) that can adapt their position and orientation based on the distribution apparatus's location and the target container's position, maintaining precision while enabling operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple types of distribution apparatuses and target containers. The control unit can store and process various container configurations and positional relationships, allowing the same positioning device to adapt to different experimental setups and container types while maintaining positioning precision.
Data Source
AI summary
On the one hand the invention relates to a distribution apparatus 41 for hand held distribution of fluid samples with a data carrier and a first communication interface. On the other hand it concerns a positioning device 21 comprising a first holder 23 adapted for holding the distribution apparatus 41, a second holder 25 adapted for holding a target container 63, an actuator for effecting a relative movement of the first and the second holder 23, 25, and a second communication interface. These two components are part of a sample distribution system 11 which is also subject matter of the invention, including its use in a process for sample distribution. A relevant aspect of the invention is that the data carrier of the distribution apparatus contains information determining the operation of the actuator. The first and the second communication interfaces are configured for the transmission of said information from the distribution apparatus 41 to the positioning device 21, and the positioning device 21 is configured for effecting operation of the actuator as determined by the information.