Manual Pipette Autonomous Control for Real-Time Volume Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual pipettes lack real-time validation of dispensed volume and inadequate traceability of operations, requiring operator intervention and lacking integration with laboratory information management systems.
Innovation Solution
A manually-operated pipette equipped with an autonomous control device, including a microcontroller and wireless communication module, that communicates with sensors to provide real-time feedback and automatic control, enabling validation and traceability of pipetting operations without direct user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual pipettes are used without integrated sensors and control devices, then the device complexity is low and ease of operation is maintained, but real-time validation of dispensed volume and traceability of operations cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The pipette system performs self-validation through integrated sensors that automatically monitor and verify the dispensed volume without requiring external verification equipment. The microcontroller processes sensor data to confirm proper operation, enabling the device to validate its own performance in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical volume verification methods are replaced with electronic sensing and digital communication systems. Force sensors, pressure sensors, and wireless modules substitute for manual verification, enabling automated real-time validation while maintaining ease of use through software-based tracking.
2Loss of information
If manual pipettes without integrated information systems are used, then the device complexity remains low, but adequate traceability of operations and integration with laboratory information management systems cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The microcontroller continuously receives feedback from sensors regarding pipette operation status, volume dispensed, and environmental conditions. This feedback loop enables real-time monitoring and automatic recording of all operations, ensuring complete traceability without requiring manual documentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated microcontroller serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls the pipette mechanism, processes sensor data, communicates wirelessly with laboratory systems, and maintains operational logs. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single integrated system.
3Measurement precision
If weighing scales with necessary accuracy for ISO8655 standard are used to measure dispensed volume, then measurement precision is improved, but the bulk and total weight of the sample become incompatible
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical weighing scales are replaced with electronic sensing systems integrated directly into the pipette. Force sensors and pressure sensors measure volume dispensed through electronic means, eliminating the need for bulky external weighing equipment while maintaining ISO8655 compliance.
4Reliability
If electronic or hybrid pipettes with autonomous supply, sensors, and transceivers are used to achieve connection with LIMS, then traceability and real-time information are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pipette system autonomously monitors its own operation through integrated sensors and automatically communicates results to laboratory information management systems. The device serves itself by performing validation, recording, and reporting functions without requiring separate external systems or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the control unit, sensor array, wireless communication module, and validation logic into a single integrated system within the pipette. This consolidation achieves the functionality of electronic pipettes while simplifying the overall architecture compared to hybrid systems that require separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A manually-operated mono-channel or multi-channel pipette for the sampling and dispensing of a liquid sample in accordance with a given protocol, comprising a control button equipped with an autonomous control device which can supply a user with information relating to a pipetting operation in real time during the pipetting operation.