Metering Chamber Cartridge Dispensing With Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems for biological sample processing face challenges in accurately dispensing predetermined amounts of reagents onto test slides, often resulting in inefficiencies and inconsistencies due to issues with fluid ejection and pressure equalization, which can affect the precision and reliability of diagnostic tests.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispensing system featuring a cartridge with a fluid reservoir, metering chamber, and nozzle configuration that includes a pressure valve for ambient pressure equalization and a compression assembly for controlled fluid ejection, ensuring precise and accurate dispensing of reagents by managing pressure and volume effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a spring loaded displacement member is used to eject reagent from the container, then the reagent can be dispensed onto the slide, but the dispensing precision and consistency are poor due to pressure equalization issues
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure valve is introduced as an intermediary component between the reagent container and the external environment. The pressure valve controls pressure equalization during the dispensing process, ensuring that pressure differentials do not compromise dispensing precision while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Measurement precision
If the reagent container is positioned adjacent the actuator for ejection, then the dispensing process can be automated, but pressure differentials affect the accuracy of predetermined amount dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure valve provides a feedback mechanism that responds to pressure differentials during dispensing. By automatically adjusting to equalize pressure, the system ensures accurate dispensing of predetermined amounts while maintaining reliable operation throughout the automated process.
3Manufacturing precision
If a compression assembly is used for controlled fluid ejection, then precise dispensing can be achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression assembly is segmented into distinct functional components that work independently but coordinate together. This segmentation allows for precise control of fluid ejection while keeping each individual component relatively simple, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
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
The system achieves precise and consistent dispensing of reagents, minimizing waste and ensuring accurate application, thereby enhancing the reliability of diagnostic tests and sample processing.
Implementation Method 1
A fluid dispensing system featuring a cartridge with a fluid reservoir, metering chamber, and nozzle configuration that includes a pressure valve for ambient pressure equalization
Implementation Method 2
a compression assembly for controlled fluid ejection, ensuring precise and accurate dispensing of reagents by managing pressure and volume effectively
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a fluid reservoir and a compressible metering chamber including a first end coupled to the fluid reservoir and a second end. The apparatus further including a valve coupled to the second end of the metering chamber and a nozzle coupled to the valve. A system including linearly translatable cartridge mounting assembly having a plurality of fluid dispensing cartridge mounting stations and a plurality of fluid dispensing cartridges mounted to respective fluid dispensing cartridge mounting stations. The system further including a plurality of compression assemblies coupled to respective fluid dispensing cartridges and a receiving assembly positioned beneath the mounting assembly. A method includes positioning a fluid dispensing cartridge comprising a fluid reservoir and a metering chamber over a sample retaining member, applying a compressive force to the metering chamber to eject a predetermined amount of fluid and removing the compressive force to refill the metering chamber.