Modular Pin and Bushing Array for High-Precision Sample Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current process automation systems in laboratory and pharmaceutical environments are complex, costly, and lack flexibility and scalability, with inadequate use of vertical space and precision in sample transfer, often requiring multiple specialized instruments and multi-degree of freedom robots that are not suitable for high-precision operations.
Innovation Solution
A modular, scalable process automation apparatus composed of identical functional modules arranged along a precise conveyor device, utilizing a 3D gantry robot-like movement and equipped with specialized tools such as high-density pinheads, to minimize footprint and enhance precision in operations like microarraying, while allowing for reconfiguration and easy addition of new functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized instruments and multi-degree of freedom robots are used for sample transfer and operations, then the system can perform diverse laboratory operations, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal robotic arm with 6 degrees of freedom that can perform multiple laboratory operations including sample transfer, microarraying, and various manipulations. The system uses a single integrated platform with interchangeable end-effectors (grippers, pipettes, probes) rather than multiple specialized instruments, allowing one robot to replace several dedicated devices while maintaining operational versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system is divided into modular functional components: a base unit with control system, a 6-DOF robotic arm, interchangeable end-effectors, and configurable workstations. This segmentation allows the system to be customized for different operations by swapping end-effectors rather than requiring entirely different specialized instruments for each task
2Manufacturing precision
If standard laboratory automation systems are used with conventional sample transfer mechanisms, then the system can handle routine operations, but the precision required for high-precision operations like microarraying is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm employs dynamic motion control with adjustable speed profiles that enable high-speed movement for non-critical operations and switch to high-precision slow-speed positioning when microarraying or other precision tasks are required. The system dynamically adapts its motion characteristics based on the current operation and detected environmental conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces conventional mechanical sample transfer mechanisms with a robotically controlled 6-DOF arm that uses advanced positioning algorithms and sensors to achieve sub-millimeter precision. This substitution of simple mechanical systems with intelligent robotic control enables both high precision and maintained throughput
3Ease of operation
If independent specialized instruments are integrated using control computer and software, then the system can coordinate multiple devices, but the footprint of the system increases due to inadequate use of vertical dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reconfigures the laboratory automation system from a horizontal arrangement of separate instruments to a vertical integration model where multiple workstations and operational zones are stacked vertically around a central robotic arm. This vertical arrangement充分利用 the Z-dimension to reduce the horizontal footprint while maintaining all necessary coordination capabilities through the centralized control system
4Area of stationary object
If modular functional modules are arranged along a precise conveyer device with 3D gantry robot-like movement, then the vertical space utilization improves and footprint is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional modules (sample preparation station, microarraying station, washing station, detection station) into a single integrated modular platform that moves along a linear conveyer. The 6-DOF robotic arm serves all stations from a central position, combining what would otherwise require separate complex systems into one unified modular architecture that reduces overall footprint
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for transferring plurality of samples from one sample container to another one is disclosed wherein each sample is randomly accessible and can be “cherry picked”. The disclosed method of actuation allows for using a smaller number of actuators than the number of sample transferring channels or pins and thereby simplifies the design and control of the sample transferring apparatus.