Multi-Pipette Aspiration for Open Port Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for sample processing in microplates are limited in their ability to handle nanoliter-sized samples and achieve high-throughput analysis, often requiring specialized sample plates and having lower throughput due to mechanical movement of single pipettes.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple pipettes for simultaneous aspiration of samples from a microplate and sequential dispensing into an open port interface (OPI) for high-speed, accurate delivery of low-volume sample droplets, allowing for high-throughput analysis without the need for specialized plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single pipette is used for sample processing, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to sequential processing limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sample processing function into multiple independent pipettes (first pipette, second pipette, etc.), each capable of independently aspirating samples from different wells. This segmentation allows parallel aspiration operations while maintaining individual pipette simplicity, thereby increasing throughput without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pipettes are merged into a coordinated system controlled by a controller, where pipettes work in parallel for aspiration but sequence for dispensing. This merging enables the system to achieve high throughput through simultaneous sample uptake while managing complexity through centralized control of the dispensing sequence
2Measurement precision
If specialized sample plates are used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability decreases due to limited plate format compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with various standard microplate formats (96-well, 384-well, 1536-well plates) without requiring specialized plates. The pipettes can aspirate from different well positions across multiple plate formats, and the controller adapts the dispensing sequence accordingly, providing universal compatibility while maintaining precise sample delivery to the OPI
3Manufacturing precision
If sequential dispensing is used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but loss of time increases due to step-by-step sample delivery
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pipettes perform preliminary aspiration actions simultaneously, taking up samples from different wells before the dispensing phase begins. This preliminary parallel aspiration reduces the overall processing time while the subsequent sequential dispensing maintains precision by delivering each sample droplet accurately to the OPI in a controlled manner
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 efficient processing of multiple samples at high speeds, achieving high analytical throughput and reducing sample preparation efforts, while maintaining high sensitivity and matrix tolerance.
Implementation Method 1
aspirating simultaneously, from the sample plate, a first sample droplet from a first sample of the plurality of samples with a first pipette and a second sample droplet from a second sample of the plurality of samples with a second pipette
Implementation Method 2
each of the plurality of discrete pipettes are selectively coupled to the pressure source with a valve coupled to the controller
Implementation Method 3
sequential translating deposition process includes sequentially depositing each of the plurality of aspirated samples from the plurality of discrete pipettes to the OPI
Data Source
AI summary
A method of processing a sample plate containing a plurality of samples includes aspirating simultaneously, from the sample plate, a first sample droplet from a first sample of the plurality of samples with a first pipette and a second sample droplet from a second sample of the plurality of samples with a second pipette. The sample plate also includes dispensing sequentially, from the first pipette and the second pipette, the first sample drop and the second sample drop into an open port interface (OPI).