Monolithic Carrier Structure for Digital Dispensing Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital titration systems face challenges in achieving high precision and flexibility in fluid dispensing due to the complexity and cost of manufacturing dense arrays of fluid dispense devices, as well as the need for optimized compatibility with various well plate dimensions and types.
Innovation Solution
The use of a monolithic carrier structure that integrates arrays of fluid dispense devices and reservoirs, with a single functional contact pad array to drive multiple fluid dispense devices, allowing for denser arrays, flexible arrangements, and cost-efficient manufacturing, while enabling precise control over fluid dispensing into micro- or multi-well plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If discrete MEMS fluid dispense devices are used, then precision fluid dispensing is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete MEMS fluid dispense devices into a single integrated array structure. The array includes multiple fluid dispense devices arranged in a grid pattern, sharing common electrical connections and support infrastructure, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining precision dispensing capability across all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid dispense array is designed with universal electrical connection structures that can control multiple dispense devices through shared circuitry. The array structure provides multi-functionality by enabling simultaneous or sequential operation of multiple dispense devices, reducing the need for individual complex control systems for each device.
2Productivity
If dense arrays of fluid dispense devices are created, then dispensing capacity increases, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fluid dispense devices are merged into a single array structure that shares common electrical connections, support substrates, and control interfaces. This merging approach increases dispensing capacity while avoiding the proportional increase in manufacturing cost that would result from creating each device separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The array is segmented into multiple independently controllable dispense devices arranged in a grid pattern, allowing selective activation of individual devices or groups. This segmentation enables high dispensing capacity through parallel operation while maintaining cost efficiency through shared infrastructure and control mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple contact pad arrays are provided for each fluid dispense device, then precise control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal electrical connection structures where single contact pad arrays or shared electrical pathways can control multiple fluid dispense devices. This multi-functional electrical architecture maintains precise control capability while reducing the overall number of contact pads and electrical connections required compared to dedicated one-to-one control structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital dispense apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid dispense devices, at least one reservoir connected to the plurality of fluid dispense devices to deliver fluid to the plurality of fluid dispense devices, at least one contact pad array, and a single monolithic carrier structure.