Microplate Stacker Lid Separation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microplate stackers are unable to efficiently remove and replace microplate lids, leading to difficulties in processing microplates with lids due to lack of spacing between lids and microplates, and existing solutions like delidders and robotic systems are costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A microplate stacker with a cassette configuration and lift mechanism that separates microplates from their corresponding lids by extending support features into a gap between the microplates and lids, allowing for integrated lid removal and replacement, and a gripper system for handling microplates and lids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional stackers are used to load and unload microplates from the bottom of the stack, then the stackers are more compact and lower cost, but they are incapable of removing and replacing microplate lids
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the microplate-lid stack into separable components by introducing a support feature that interacts with the lid's flange. This allows the lid to be separated from the microplate during stacking operations, enabling independent handling of lids and microplates while maintaining a simple overall stacker structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support feature acts as an intermediary element between the lid and the stacker mechanism. By providing a dedicated interaction point on the lid's flange, the support feature enables lid removal without requiring complex gripping mechanisms or structural changes to the stacker itself.
2Productivity
If microplates are stacked with lids seated on top, then efficient processing and storage is achieved, but there is minimal spacing between the lid of the lowermost microplate and the base of the microplate above, making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support feature is positioned in advance during the stacking operation to engage with the lid's flange. This preliminary positioning creates a predetermined interaction point that facilitates subsequent lid removal, eliminating the need for complex real-time manipulation during the removal process.
Solution Approach 2:
The support feature extends into the vertical dimension to interact with the lid's flange, creating a new spatial relationship that enables lid separation. This dimensional approach allows the stacker to access and manipulate the lid without disrupting the tight stacking arrangement of the microplates themselves.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing solutions like delidders and robotic systems are used to remove and replace lids, then lid handling capability is achieved, but the systems become costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the lid removal function with the existing stacker structure by integrating the support feature into the stacker's mechanical system. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate delidding equipment or complex robotic mechanisms, achieving lid handling capability within the simple stacker architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The stacker performs lid removal and replacement operations using its own simple mechanical components, specifically the support feature that interacts with the lid's flange. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external delidding equipment or complex control systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining lid handling functionality.
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 efficient processing and storage of microplates with lids by allowing for the removal and replacement of lids within the stacker, reducing complexity and cost compared to existing systems, while maintaining compactness.
Implementation Method 1
a lift mechanism configured to raise or lower the stack of the plurality of microplates and the plurality of lids
Implementation Method 2
a stack dog configured to separate a microplate among the plurality of microplates from a lid among the plurality of lids that corresponds to the microplate
Data Source
AI summary
A microplate stacker capable of removing and replacing standard microplate lids by separating a microplate from a lid located directly above the microplate in a stack of microplates and lids.