Labware Aligning Spring-Loaded Pusher Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory liquid handling systems face challenges in efficiently and precisely handling and aligning labware, such as pipette tip boxes and well plates, within the system.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a spring-loaded pusher mechanism and an actuator linkage that allows for robotic and automatic alignment of labware within the system, ensuring precise positioning and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of labware is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher mechanism automatically aligns labware in the seat through spring-loaded force, eliminating the need for manual positioning while maintaining simplicity. The system self-corrects positioning errors without requiring complex automated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment function is extracted as a separate, simple mechanical pusher mechanism rather than being integrated into a complex automated positioning system. This isolates the alignment function to a dedicated, easy-to-implement component.
2Productivity
If robotic automatic alignment is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded pusher automatically performs alignment whenever labware is placed in the seat, providing robotic-like automation without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself through the natural spring force.
Solution Approach 2:
The pusher activates periodically whenever labware is loaded, using the insertion action itself to trigger the alignment process. This converts the loading motion into the alignment action, improving productivity without adding separate actuation systems.
3Ease of operation
If the pusher is spring-loaded for automatic alignment, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism uses the natural loading action of placing labware in the seat to trigger alignment. The system requires no separate actuation - the operation of loading the labware itself activates the alignment function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a motor to push the labware into position, the design allows the labware to be placed and then uses spring force to push back against the labware for alignment. The reaction force from placement becomes the alignment force.
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 enables efficient and precise alignment of labware, reducing manual intervention and improving the accuracy of liquid handling operations within the system.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded pusher mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A lab ware aligning system for use with a lab ware includes a frame and fixation system. The frame includes a seat. The fixation system includes a pusher and a pusher actuator. The pusher is movable relative to the frame between an open position and a closed position. The pusher actuator includes an actuator linkage and a biasing mechanism. The actuator linkage is configured to: move the pusher from the closed position toward the open position when the actuator linkage is displaced; and, permit the pusher to move toward the closed position when the actuator linkage is not displaced. The biasing mechanism is operative to force the pusher toward the closed position when the actuator linkage is not displaced and to thereby cause the pusher to align the lab ware in the seat.