Flow Path Liquid Introduction Using a Multi-Port Switcher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for introducing liquids into flow path devices result in waste due to the discharge of excess liquid during the process, which can lower the accuracy of processes like particle separation and measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a switching member to control liquid flow between multiple ports, allowing sequential filling and introduction of liquids with minimized waste by setting the switcher to different states for each process step, reducing unnecessary discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the flow paths are filled with liquid to remove air before introducing the first and second liquids, then the accuracy of the processes is improved, but the complexity of the operation increases due to the additional filling step
Solution Approach 1:
The switcher is configured to automatically fill the flow paths with liquid before the actual sample introduction, performing the air removal step in advance. This preliminary action ensures accurate processes while automating the procedure to reduce operational complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The switcher acts as an intermediary device that manages the liquid filling process between the liquid source and the flow paths. It automatically controls the filling operation, mediating the complex steps of air removal and liquid introduction, thereby improving process accuracy while simplifying user operation.
2Device complexity
If a tube is used to connect the flow inlet to introduce liquids, then the device structure is simplified, but air remains in the flow paths reducing process accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The switcher performs preliminary liquid filling through the existing tube connection before sample introduction, removing air from the flow paths in advance. This maintains the simple tube-based device structure while ensuring process accuracy through automated preliminary air removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The switcher serves as an intermediary that activates liquid flow through the simple tube connection to eliminate air bubbles. It mediates between the simple existing device structure and the requirement for high process accuracy by automatically managing the filling process.
3Loss of time
If liquids are introduced directly into the flow path device without pre-filling, then the operation time is reduced, but air presence in flow paths lowers process accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The switcher enables continuous liquid flow that simultaneously fills the flow paths and prepares for sample introduction without interruption. This continuous action eliminates air from the system while maintaining efficient operation timing, resolving the conflict between speed and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The switcher performs preliminary filling of the flow paths with liquid before the actual sample injection, automating the air removal process. This preliminary action occurs rapidly and automatically, minimizing time loss while ensuring subsequent process accuracy.
4Loss of substance
If the switcher is used to control liquid flow between multiple ports, then liquid waste is reduced through precise control, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switcher is a multi-functional device that controls liquid flow between multiple ports (first port, second port, third port) to perform filling, suction, and introduction operations. This universal control mechanism reduces liquid waste through precise flow management while consolidating multiple functions into a single device component.
Solution Approach 2:
The switcher dynamically changes its internal configuration to connect different ports based on the operational phase (filling, suction, or introduction). This dynamic adaptability enables precise liquid control to minimize waste while the switcher itself remains a fixed device structure.
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 minimizes waste liquid discharge and maintains process accuracy by optimizing liquid flow paths, ensuring efficient introduction and separation of particles.
Implementation Method 1
The suction-discharge unit sucks and discharges a liquid
Implementation Method 2
The liquid feeder feeds a second liquid different from the first liquid
Data Source
AI summary
A method for introducing a liquid into a flow path device includes preparation, filling, first suction, and introduction. The flow path device includes a flow path portion inside to allow a liquid flow between first and second openings. A switcher includes first to third ports. The preparation includes connecting the flow path device and the switcher to allow a liquid flow between the second opening and the first port. The preparation includes connecting the second port and a liquid storage, connecting the third port and a suction-discharge unit, and connecting the first opening and a feeder. The filling includes filling, with a second liquid fed by the feeder, a flow path from the feeder to the liquid storage. The first suction includes sucking a first liquid using the suction-discharge unit from the liquid storage. The introduction includes introducing the first liquid into the flow path portion using the suction-discharge unit.