Flow Cytometer Probe Collision Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flow cytometers face challenges in efficiently and accurately positioning and washing probes within sample tubes of varying sizes, leading to potential collisions and contamination issues during sample collection.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a sled with a wash station and a z-gauge assembly, along with optical sensors and actuators, to precisely control the probe holder and z-gauge assembly movements, preventing collisions and ensuring proper washing by detecting bottomed-out positions and generating corrective signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the probe holder assembly is allowed to translate freely to reach sample tubes of varying sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the risk of collision and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe crash sensor is positioned to detect potential collisions before they occur. When the sensor detects that the probe is approaching the bottom of the sample tube (through light blockage by the probe adapter flag), it generates a signal that prevents further downward movement, thereby preventing collision and contamination before they can happen.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses optical feedback through the probe crash sensor and probe adapter flag mechanism. The flag blocks light from the light source to the photodetector when the probe reaches a certain position, providing real-time feedback about probe position relative to the sample tube bottom, enabling precise control and prevention of harmful collisions.
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors and actuators are added to precisely control probe movement, then the measurement precision and control accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe adapter serves as an intermediary component that incorporates the light-blocking flag mechanism. This simple mechanical intermediary translates complex positioning requirements into a simple optical signal (light blocked or not blocked), enabling precise control without requiring complex sensors or actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning sensors with a simple optical detection system using a light source, photodetector, and light-blocking flag. This substitution achieves high measurement precision while maintaining mechanical simplicity in the overall system architecture.
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 solution enhances the precision and safety of probe movement, reduces contamination risks, and increases sampling efficiency by preventing collisions with sample tubes of different sizes.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor that includes a light source and a photodetector and configured to direct light from the light source towards the photodetector by crossing a gap
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a sampler that obtains fluid samples with a probe and washes the probe during the act of withdrawing the probe from a sample container. In addition, detection of a collision of the probe and/or the wash station with another object can be quickly detected using sensors that determine if a collision situation exists.