Modular Pipette Manifold for Independent Parallel Sample Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in clinical laboratories is the labor-intensive process of managing large quantities of biological samples, particularly due to the need for multiple liquid transfer operations like pipetting, which is not efficiently automated across different diagnostic testing systems.
Innovation Solution
A liquid dispenser system with a manifold and pipette channels that utilize pressure and vacuum channels, along with independently controlled valves, to aspirate and dispense liquids, allowing for customizable and efficient handling of multiple samples in parallel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual liquid transfer operations are used, then flexibility in handling different samples is maintained, but labor intensity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the liquid handling function into multiple independent pipette channels (first pipette channel, second pipette channel, etc.), each capable of autonomous operation. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously, dramatically increasing throughput while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different pipette channels with varying functionalities. Each channel can be configured for specific liquid handling tasks, allowing the system to handle diverse sample types and processing requirements through a single integrated apparatus.
2Productivity
If multiple pipette channels are integrated into a single system, then productivity increases through parallel processing, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pipette channels are merged into a single integrated system through a common manifold that provides unified pneumatic control and mechanical support. The manifold combines pressure and vacuum channels that can simultaneously serve multiple pipette channels, reducing the need for separate control systems and minimizing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the control system and multiple pipette channels. It provides standardized connection interfaces and distributes pneumatic signals uniformly to all channels, simplifying the integration process and reducing the complexity of direct point-to-point connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independently controlled valves are used in each pipette channel, then operational flexibility and precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve control mechanism is copied and integrated into each pipette channel, with each channel containing its own valve assembly that mirrors the functionality of others. This standardized copying approach allows independent control of each channel while maintaining uniformity in design, simplifying manufacturing and maintenance.
4Productivity
If automated liquid handling is implemented, then productivity and precision are improved, but ease of operation and system customization become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic elements that allow pipette channels to be selectively engaged or disengaged from the manifold based on processing requirements. This dynamic configuration capability enables the system to adapt to different sample volumes, processing protocols, and throughput requirements while maintaining automated operation.
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
This system enables efficient and automated pipetting operations across various biological samples, reducing labor intensity and enhancing the ability to prepare samples for diagnostic testing by allowing simultaneous and independent control of multiple pipette channels.
Implementation Method 1
a valve in simultaneous fluid communication with the pressure port and the vacuum port, the valve operable to selectively divert gas under pressure and gas under vacuum to the dispense head
Implementation Method 2
the dispense head is configured to dispense a liquid from the pipette tip when the valve diverts gas under pressure to the dispense head
Implementation Method 3
the dispense head is configured to aspirate a liquid into the pipette tip when the valve diverts gas under vacuum to the dispense head
Data Source
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AI summary
Automated pipetting systems and methods are disclosed for aspirating and dispensing fluids, particularly biological samples. In one aspect a liquid dispenser includes a manifold and one or more pipette channels. The manifold includes a vacuum channel, a pressure channel, and a plurality of lanes. Each lane includes an electrical connector, a port to the pressure channel, and a port to the vacuum channel. The pipette channels can be modular. Each pipette channel includes a single dispense head and can be selectively and independently coupled to any one lane of the plurality of lanes. In some aspects, a valve in the pipette channel is in simultaneous fluid communication with a pressure port and a vacuum port of the manifold. The valve selectively diverts gas under pressure and gas under vacuum to the dispense head in response to control signals received through the electrical connector of the manifold.