Continuous Interleaved Assaying in Multi-Well Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for conducting assays in multi-well plate formats lack efficient automated sampling, sample preparation, and analysis capabilities, particularly for luminescence assays, which are essential for high-throughput applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and drug discovery.
Innovation Solution
The development of an apparatus comprising a light detection subsystem, a liquid handling subsystem, and a plate handling subsystem that processes assay samples in a continuous interleaved process, including a pipetting system for delivering and removing liquids, a plate handling system with elevators and translation stages for precise plate positioning, and a seal piercing probe for accessing sealed wells, enabling efficient luminescence assays in multi-well plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated sampling, sample preparation, and analysis are implemented in multi-well plate formats, then productivity and throughput are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into three independent subsystems: a light detection subsystem for measuring luminescence signals, a liquid handling subsystem for automated sample and reagent dispensing, and a plate handling subsystem for plate loading, positioning, and unloading. Each subsystem operates semi-independently, allowing modular design and maintenance while collectively achieving high-throughput automated analysis of multi-well plates
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single platform: it can perform both luminescence detection and electrochemiluminescence measurements, handle sealed and unsealed plates, conduct sample preparation and analysis, and process multiple plates sequentially. The plate handling subsystem can accommodate different plate formats and configurations, providing universal functionality across various assay types
2Productivity
If continuous interleaved processing is used to enhance throughput, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to increased system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus implements continuous interleaved processing where the light detection subsystem continuously measures luminescence signals from multiple wells across several plates, while the liquid handling subsystem simultaneously performs sample preparation and reagent dispensing on subsequent plates. This continuous operation maximizes throughput while maintaining measurement quality through consistent detection protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The light detection subsystem incorporates signal processing and analysis capabilities that provide feedback on measurement quality and plate processing status. This feedback mechanism allows real-time monitoring and adjustment of detection parameters, ensuring measurement precision is maintained even during high-speed continuous processing of multiple plates
3Reliability
If sealed plates are handled to maintain sample integrity, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional seal piercing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The plate handling subsystem is pre-configured with automated seal detection and piercing capabilities. Before analysis begins, the system automatically detects sealed plates and performs seal removal or piercing through integrated mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual seal handling. This preliminary automated action maintains sample integrity while simplifying user operation
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus performs self-service seal handling through automated detection and piercing mechanisms integrated into the plate handling subsystem. The system automatically identifies sealed plates, positions piercing elements, and removes or pierces seals without user intervention, thereby maintaining sample integrity while preserving ease of operation
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 apparatus enhances the sensitivity and throughput of luminescence assays, allowing for high-sensitivity measurements across multiple wells with automated operation, handling of sealed plates, and multiplexing capabilities, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of sample analysis in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus enhances the sensitivity and throughput of luminescence assays, allowing for high-sensitivity measurements across multiple wells
Implementation Method 2
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Data Source
AI summary
We describe apparatuses, systems, method, reagents, and kits for conducting assays as well as process for their preparation. They are particularly well suited for conducting automated sampling, sample preparation, and analysis in a multi-well plate assay format. For example, they may be used for automated analysis of particulates in air and/or liquid samples derived therefrom in environmental monitoring.