Liquid-Tight Adapter for Continuous Sample Flow in Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for adding samples to modules in laboratory operations, particularly in high throughput screening, are time-consuming, limited to small volumes, and lack direct control over flow speed and pressure, making it difficult to handle larger sample quantities efficiently and achieve high-quality chromatography treatments.
Innovation Solution
The development of an adapter that enables a liquid-tight connection between pipetting needles and modules, allowing for continuous sample addition under pressure, eliminating the need for batch operations and centrifugation, and facilitating precise flow-through parameters and mixing of samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If batch operations are used to add samples to modules, then the module volume limitation is respected, but the operation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter enables continuous sample addition by providing a direct liquid-tight connection between the pipetting needle and module, allowing samples to be added continuously without batch operations. The continuous flow through the porous bottom of the module maintains constant processing, eliminating the need to stop and restart operations between batches.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component that bridges the pipetting needle and module, enabling direct pressure application and continuous flow. This intermediary device allows large sample quantities to be added efficiently by maintaining a sealed connection that permits controlled continuous addition while managing the pressure differential.
2Device complexity
If batch operations are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but flow control precision and pressure control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter enables direct application of positive pressure from the pipetting needle to drive liquid flow through the module. This pneumatic/hydraulic approach allows precise control of flow speed and pressure by controlling the pressure applied at the needle, providing direct control mechanisms that are simpler than complex mechanical flow control systems.
3Device complexity
If standard modules are used without adapters, then device complexity is minimized, but sample addition efficiency and quality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the pipetting needle for sample delivery, the adapter for connection and pressure application, and the module for processing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together, enabling efficient sample addition without redesigning the entire module structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary that connects the pipetting needle to the module, enabling efficient sample addition while keeping the module structure unchanged. This intermediary component provides the necessary sealing and pressure transmission capabilities without modifying the standard module design.
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 allows for faster and more efficient addition of larger sample quantities, improving product quality, reducing operation time, and enabling precise control over flow rates, leading to better chromatography results and increased productivity.
Implementation Method 1
liquid samples are supplied by means of pipetting stations to modules, in particular kits, in which the liquid samples are for instance filtered, absorbed, or eluted
Implementation Method 2
liquid samples are supplied by means of pipetting stations to modules, in particular kits, in which the liquid samples are for instance filtered, absorbed, or eluted
Implementation Method 3
The driving force that causes the liquid to flow through the porous solid mass is applied either using a centrifuge or with a vacuum or positive pressure
Implementation Method 4
The positive pressure is applied above at the input to the module, the vacuum is applied below at the output of the module
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for depositing samples in modules, in particular, in kits, in addition to an adapter. The inventive adapter (1) is embodied in such a manner that an injection needle can be received in a liquid-tight manner. It is connected in a liquid-tight manner to the low-lying module or kit (20) and enables a continuous flow of samples.