Mass Spec Dispenser Tip Cleaning via Encasing Wash Drop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensers for mass spectrometric sample preparation, particularly for MALDI, face challenges with frequent clogging due to crystallization of matrix solutions at the dispenser tip, leading to inaccurate droplet placement and the need for frequent manual cleaning, which is time-consuming and hazardous in microbiological settings.
Innovation Solution
The development of a cleaning method that uses a washing fluid fed through outer channels to form a drop encasing the dispenser tip, allowing for automatic cleaning without dismounting the dispenser or removing the dispensing liquid, utilizing micropumps and optical monitoring to regulate drop size and prevent premature detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning of the dispenser tip is performed frequently, then clogging due to crystallization is removed, but time is lost and hazardous exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser performs self-cleaning through an automated cleaning device that delivers washing fluid to the tip, eliminating the need for manual disassembly and cleaning by laboratory personnel. The system automatically detects clogging conditions and initiates cleaning cycles, allowing the dispenser to maintain itself without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
A washing fluid is introduced as an intermediary substance to dissolve and remove crystalline deposits from the dispenser tip. The cleaning device delivers this washing fluid directly to the tip through a delivery device, allowing chemical cleaning without mechanical disassembly or manual handling of hazardous materials.
2Productivity
If the dispenser operates continuously without cleaning, then productivity is maintained, but clogging occurs leading to inaccurate droplet placement
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning operation is integrated into the continuous sample preparation process, allowing the dispenser to alternate between dispensing samples and self-cleaning without interrupting overall productivity. The automated cleaning occurs in-place during operational cycles, maintaining continuous useful action without requiring system shutdown or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors droplet placement accuracy and dispenser tip condition, providing feedback that triggers cleaning cycles when clogging is detected. This feedback mechanism ensures precision is maintained by initiating cleaning only when necessary, preventing productivity loss while ensuring accurate droplet placement.
3Reliability
If manual cleaning procedures are used, then clogging is removed, but occupational safety is compromised due to hazardous solvent exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser automatically performs its own cleaning without requiring laboratory personnel to handle hazardous washing fluids or disassemble the dispenser tip. The automated system contains and manages all hazardous materials within the closed system, eliminating occupational exposure risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The washing fluid acts as an intermediary that is delivered and contained within the closed system, allowing effective cleaning without human contact. The delivery device precisely controls the washing fluid application, and the system captures and manages the fluid throughout the cleaning process, preventing exposure to laboratory workers.
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 robust, automated cleaning of dispensers, reducing the need for frequent manual intervention, minimizing hazardous exposure, and maintaining accurate droplet placement while using minimal washing fluid, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a drop of washing fluid is created which completely encloses the outside of the dispenser tip
Implementation Method 2
a drop of dispensing liquid is pressed out of an inner capillary by a micropump
Implementation Method 3
The size of which is regulated by an optical device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to the preparation of samples on mass spectrometric sample supports with dispensing of liquids, and particularly to devices and methods to clean the dispenser. During dispensing of hundreds of samples, solved material may crystallize over time as deposit at the capillary tip of the dispenser, which impedes the vertical detachment of the drop in the medium and long run. Therefore, frequently cleaning the capillary tip is essential for a robust operation of the preparation device. The invention proposes to automatically clean the dispenser tip by creating a drop of washing fluid, such as pure solvent, fully enclosing the dispenser tip. The washing fluid is fed through a channel outside the central dispenser capillary to a location slightly above the capillary tip. The size of the hanging drop of washing fluid is photometrically regulated and monitored to prevent it from falling off prematurely.