Magnetic Lid Lifter for Microplate Readers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing microplate readers face challenges with sample evaporation and gas exchange issues when using lids, leading to inaccurate optical measurements and laborious manual handling, especially in robotic systems where continuous monitoring is required.

Innovation Solution

A microplate reader with an integrated magnetic lid holding apparatus that allows for the automated lifting and replacement of microplate lids, enabling continuous optical measurement and gas exchange while using standard microplates and lids, and allowing for the performance of long-term tests and monitoring of cell cultures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of substance

If a microplate lid is used to prevent evaporation, then sample loss is reduced, but gas exchange is restricted and optical measurements are impaired

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample evaporationVSAvoidoptical measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing an automated lid lifting mechanism that dynamically adjusts the lid position based on measurement requirements. The lid is automatically lifted during optical measurements to ensure accurate readings, then closed between measurements to prevent evaporation. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining sample volume and ensuring measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of substance

If a microplate lid is used to prevent evaporation, then sample loss is reduced, but gas supply to wells is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample evaporationVSAvoidgas exchange
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by automatically lifting the lid at scheduled intervals during measurements and closing it between measurements. This periodic opening allows gas exchange to occur at appropriate moments while maintaining evaporation prevention during incubation periods, thus resolving the contradiction between gas supply and evaporation control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Reliability

If manual lid removal and replacement is performed, then gas exchange and measurement accuracy are maintained, but labor and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmanual handling time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the self-service principle by implementing an automated lid lifting mechanism that operates without manual intervention. The system automatically lifts and closes the lid based on measurement schedules, eliminating the need for manual handling while maintaining measurement accuracy and gas exchange requirements. This resolves the contradiction between measurement reliability and time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Extent of automation

If a robotic system is used for automated lid handling, then labor is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelid handling automationVSAvoidrobotic system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the lid lifting function as a separate, dedicated mechanism integrated into the microplate reader, rather than using a complex general-purpose robotic system. This specialized extraction approach provides automated lid handling with minimal additional complexity, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Enables accurate and continuous optical measurements, reduces evaporation, maintains gas exchange, and facilitates automated handling of microplates, improving the reliability and efficiency of biological and biochemical tests in microplate readers.

Implementation Method 1

The lid holding apparatus is arranged as a magnetic lifter and comprises a non-array arrangement of at least one permanent magnet, or at least three electro magnets, or at least one switchable permanent magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9993824B2Microplate reader with lid lifter for microplates
Publication Date: 2018.06.12 TECAN TRADING AG
  • US9993824B2 patent drawing
  • US9993824B2 patent drawing
  • US9993824B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A microplate reader comprises a housing; at least one optical measuring/detection device; a microplate support; a moving unit; and an integrated lid holding apparatus. The lid holding apparatus is arranged to move the microplate lid and/or the microplate support is arranged to move the microplate in one respective, in an at least approximately vertical direction for moving the microplate lid away from the microplate. The lid holding apparatus is arranged inside the housing as a magnetic lifter and comprises a non-array arrangement of at least one permanent magnet, or at least three electromagnets, or at least one switchable permanent magnet. Each microplate lid to be moved away from the microplate comprises magnetizable material.