Microplate Stacking Device with Segmented Retaining Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microplate handling devices are inefficient due to the need for separate components like gripping devices and form-fitting connections, which result in a larger device size and increased distance traveled by microplates, and can cause jolting movements that are undesirable, especially when microplates are filled.
Innovation Solution
A compact device with a retaining system featuring a form-fitting upper tool and a frictional lower tool, where the upper tool supports the weight of all microplates and the lower tool only handles one microplate, allowing for direct access and reduced travel distance, using elongated grippers and bolts for secure handling and minimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate gripping device is used to remove microplates, then the microplates can be handled, but the device size increases and microplates travel greater distance
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping function is merged into the retaining device structure. The retaining device includes a retaining tool with a gripping element that is integrated into the same component that holds the microplate stack, eliminating the need for a separate gripping device and reducing overall device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining device serves multiple functions: it supports the microplate stack weight through the form-fitting connection, provides gripping capability through the gripping element, and enables microplate removal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components.
2Reliability
If a form-fitting connection is used to hold microplates, then the microplates are securely retained, but jolting movements occur during generation or release
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining tool is designed to dynamically adjust its gripping element position. During microplate placement, the gripping element engages smoothly without sudden movements. During removal, the gripping element can be selectively released or repositioned to minimize jolting while maintaining secure retention during stacking operations.
3Ease of operation
If the retaining element is released to take the lowest microplate away, then the microplate can be removed, but the entire stack weight rests on the lifting device
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining device is segmented into multiple retaining tools positioned at different heights. The lower retaining tool holds the lowest microplate while the upper retaining tool holds the second-lowest microplate. This segmentation allows selective release of individual microplates without requiring the lifting device to support the entire stack weight.
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 solution enables reliable, compact, and efficient stacking and removal of microplates with reduced risk of jolting, maintaining precision and stability, and allowing quicker processing with less external impact on filled microplates.
Implementation Method 1
The first retaining tool is designed to fix a container in the microplate in place in a form-fitting manner. The form-fitting connection obtained with the first retaining tool is such that it prevents downward movement of the microplate, and can therefore support the weight of all of the microplates in the device.
Implementation Method 2
The second retaining tool is designed to fix a container in the microplate in place in a frictional manner.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for receiving, stacking, and removing microplates is presented and described. The device comprises a tower for stacking the microplates, wherein a microplate comprises a container and, optionally, a lid. There is a retaining device at the lower end of the tower, which has a first retaining tool and a second retaining tool, and preferably partially encompasses a microplate. The first retaining tool is designed to hold a microplate in a form-fitting manner. The second retaining tool is designed to fix a container in the microplate in place in a frictional manner. The first retaining tool is above the second retaining tool in the stacking direction. A system that comprises the device described above, a dispenser device, and a transport device, is also disclosed. The dispenser device is used to fill microplates, and the transport device is used to add and remove microplates to and from the device.