Integrated Robotic Sample Transfer Device with Internal Fluid Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic sample transfer devices are large, heavy, expensive, and inconvenient to operate and maintain, requiring external tanks and computing devices, which occupy significant laboratory space and are not user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A compact robotic sample transfer device with a three-axis robotic positioning assembly, internal storage tanks, and a graphic user interface for easy operation, featuring a horizontal work surface with integrated functional elements like a vacuum drying station, ultrasonic cleaning well, and microtiter plate mount block, allowing precise sample transfer and cleaning within a compact, enclosed processing chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional robotic sample transfer devices are used, then sample transfer functionality is achieved, but device size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate external components (fluid storage tanks, cleaning stations, computing devices, plumbing) into a single integrated robotic sample transfer device with internal compartments. The housing contains all necessary functional elements including sample transfer mechanisms, fluid reservoirs, cleaning stations, and control systems, eliminating the need for external equipment and reducing overall laboratory space requirements while maintaining reliable sample transfer functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where smaller functional components are housed within larger containment structures. Internal fluid storage tanks are positioned within the housing, cleaning stations are integrated into the device body, and various functional elements are arranged in nested compartments. This nesting approach allows compact arrangement of multiple systems within a reduced footprint while preserving all necessary sample transfer capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If external tanks and computing devices are used, then device functionality is maintained, but operational convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device performs self-service functions by incorporating all necessary operational components within the device itself. The internal fluid storage tanks automatically supply fluids to functional elements, the integrated cleaning stations maintain components without external intervention, and the built-in computing devices manage sample tracking and transfer operations autonomously. This self-contained design eliminates the need for external support equipment and simplifies operation while reducing system integration complexity through unified architecture.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple external components are used, then device functionality is comprehensive, but laboratory space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated robotic sample transfer device is designed as a universal platform that performs multiple functions within a single compact unit. The device incorporates sample transfer mechanisms, fluid storage and delivery systems, cleaning stations, vacuum drying capabilities, ultrasonic cleaning, and computing functions all within one housing. This multi-functional design provides comprehensive functionality equivalent to multiple separate devices while occupying minimal laboratory space and maintaining adaptability for various sample processing applications.
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
The device provides efficient, reliable, and user-friendly sample transfer and processing, reducing laboratory space requirements and operational complexity while maintaining high precision and ease of maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum drying station having a plurality of regularly spaced vacuum drying ports corresponding to the regular spacing of the array of pin tools
Implementation Method 2
a self-leveling ultrasonic cleaning well
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include integrated robotic sample transfer devices and components thereof which are used for reliably and accurately transferring small samples of material from one registered position to another registered position. Such transfers of material may be carried out by a single pin tool or an array of pin tools of a pin tool head assembly of robotic sample transfer devices. Some embodiments also include automated cleaning of the pin tools used to transfer the sample material. Some embodiments are fully integrated units having internal fluid supply and waste tanks, vacuum source, fluid pumps, controllers and user interface devices.