Microplate Stand With Adjustable Shelf For Pipetting Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microplate stands do not allow for adjustable height and lack a working surface for storage, leading to user discomfort and ergonomic issues during pipetting due to repetitive movements and lack of storage for reagents and templates.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory stand with an adjustable height shelf and inclined front portion for microplate support, featuring removable posts, a horizontal rear shelf for reagents, and optional features like peg holes for tracking additions and illumination for better visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the microplate is mounted on a horizontal surface, then the structure is simple and stable, but the user experiences physical fatigue and back/shoulder pain due to repetitive pipetting movements
Solution Approach 1:
The stand incorporates an adjustable inclination mechanism that allows the shelf to be tilted at various angles (e.g., 15°, 30°, 45°) to optimize pipetting ergonomics. This dynamic adjustment capability enables users to position the microplate at the most comfortable angle for their height and working style, eliminating the need to lean forward and reducing repetitive strain on back and shoulders.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into modular components including a base, adjustable posts, and a separable shelf assembly. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each component - the posts can be positioned at different heights, and the shelf can be tilted independently, providing fine-tuned ergonomic optimization without requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed angle stand is used, then the structure is simple, but the user cannot adjust to their own height and still experiences back or shoulder aches
Solution Approach 1:
The stand features adjustable height mechanisms on the posts that allow users to customize the vertical position of the shelf according to their height. Combined with the adjustable inclination angle, this creates a dynamically adaptable system that can be optimized for users of different statures, eliminating the one-size-fits-all limitation of fixed stands.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand allows independent adjustment of two key parameters: the height of the shelf above the base and the inclination angle of the shelf. By enabling users to modify these parameters, the stand adapts to individual ergonomic requirements, ensuring comfortable operation regardless of user height or preferred working posture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional stands are used, then the structure is simple, but there is no working surface for storage of reagents and templates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is designed to serve multiple functions: it supports the microplate at an ergonomic angle, provides a horizontal rear surface for storing reagents and templates, and offers adjustable height and inclination. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage furniture, consolidating workspace and storage into a single integrated unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf incorporates both a tilted front portion for microplate support and a horizontal rear portion for storage. This dimensional differentiation creates distinct functional zones on the same structure - the angled front area optimized for pipetting access while the flat rear area provides stable storage surface, effectively adding storage capacity without increasing overall footprint.
4Ease of operation
If the shelf is made fully adjustable for height and angle, then user comfort is maximized, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanisms are segmented into independent modules - height adjustment on the posts and angle adjustment on the shelf - allowing each to be manufactured and adjusted separately. This modular approach simplifies manufacturing compared to integrated adjustment systems while still providing comprehensive ergonomic optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand employs simple mechanical adjustment mechanisms rather than complex motorized or electronic systems. The inclination and height adjustments use straightforward mechanical linkages and locking mechanisms that are easy to manufacture and maintain, providing dynamic adaptability without excessive complexity or cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
A laboratory stand for a microplate comprises a base (2), at least one post (3, 4) extending upwardly from the base, a shelf (5) located above the base and supported by the at least one post, and means for adjusting the height of the shelf in relation to the base. The shelf (5) comprises a rear portion (9) which is substantially horizontal and a front portion (10), which is inclined downwards away from the horizontal, which is adapted to retain at least one microplate, The laboratory stand improves pipetting ergonomics.