Modular Bioprinter Print Bed for Swappable Vessel Inserts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bioprinters are limited by fixed print beds that cannot be easily interchanged, leading to limitations in functionality and compatibility with different laboratory vessel shapes and functionalities, and poor retention and heat distribution.
Innovation Solution
A modular, swappable print bed system that allows for interchangeable inserts with various functionalities such as heating, cooling, and imaging, and different receiving surfaces like petri dishes and well plates, with integrated nozzle calibration and dish height sensors to maintain precise positioning during printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional print beds are used with fixed configurations, then the bioprinter structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability to different laboratory vessel shapes and functionalities is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The print bed is divided into a base plate and interchangeable inserts. The base plate provides structural support while the inserts can be swapped to accommodate different vessel shapes and functionalities. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various laboratory vessels without redesigning the entire print bed structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular print bed system serves multiple functions through interchangeable inserts that can be configured for different vessel types (petri dishes, well plates, custom dishes). The same base plate structure supports various inserts, making the bioprinter versatile for different applications without requiring multiple dedicated print beds.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed print beds are used, then the device is easier to operate, but the functionality is limited to what was initially designed
Solution Approach 1:
The print bed transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic modular system where inserts can be exchanged based on printing requirements. This dynamic capability allows functionality to be altered by swapping inserts while maintaining ease of operation through simple insertion and removal mechanisms that do not require complex tools or procedures.
3Reliability
If conventional print beds accommodate specific standardized vessel shapes, then the print bed structure is simple, but the retention and heat distribution are poor
Solution Approach 1:
Different inserts are designed with specific local qualities optimized for their intended vessel types. Each insert has tailored retention features and thermal properties suited to the particular vessel shape it accommodates, improving overall retention and heat distribution without requiring a completely different print bed structure for each application.
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 flexible bioprinting capabilities by accommodating diverse laboratory vessel shapes and functionalities, improving retention and heat distribution, and ensuring stable printing despite vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
The variable insert includes a temperature control unit to maintain a constant temperature
Implementation Method 2
The variable insert includes a temperature control unit to maintain a constant temperature
Implementation Method 3
an electromagnetic radiation (EMR) source configured to cure the extruded biomaterial
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for a bioprinter capable of printing an object having biological components. In some embodiments, the bioprinter includes a modular print bed (201) having a recessed area (211) configured to receive a variable insert (217) and a printer head positioned above the modular print bed. In some embodiments, the printer head has a cartridge for receiving and holding a biomaterial, and an extruder configured to extrude biomaterials from the cartridge onto a portion of the variable insert. The variable insert may include functional elements (e.g., heating, cooling, photocuring) and/or receiving elements (e.g., well plates).