Multichannel Dispenser Layout for Larger Plungers Within Plate Footprints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multichannel dispensing devices face limitations in increasing plunger diameter due to the dependence on hole pitch of sample reaction plates, restricting the ability to dispense varying amounts from slight to great amounts efficiently and accurately.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser design with multiple syringes arranged in zigzag lines, where the outer diameter of the housing is greater than the pitch distance between dispensing tips, allowing for increased plunger diameter and enabling dispensing of varying amounts without increasing device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the plunger diameter is increased to dispense greater amounts in shorter time, then the dispensing speed and amount increase, but the device size increases and cannot be applied to standard sample reaction plates
Solution Approach 1:
The syringes are arranged in a three-dimensional space above the sample reaction plate rather than in a single linear row. Multiple syringes are positioned at different locations and heights, allowing the plunger diameter to be increased while maintaining compatibility with the standard plate footprint by utilizing vertical and lateral spatial dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing function is segmented across multiple syringes (first syringe, second syringe, etc.) rather than relying on a single large plunger. Each syringe can have a smaller diameter that fits within the spatial constraints, while collectively they provide the capacity to dispense great amounts by operating in parallel or sequence.
2Measurement precision
If the plunger diameter is decreased to improve accuracy of solution amount, then the accuracy improves, but the dispensing time increases for great amounts
Solution Approach 1:
The total dispensing task is divided among multiple syringes, each with smaller plungers that provide accurate measurement. The controller coordinates these segmented dispensing operations to collectively deliver great amounts while maintaining accuracy through the precision of individual smaller plungers.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple syringes operate in a coordinated sequence or parallel manner to maintain continuous dispensing action. While one syringe is dispensing, others can be prepared or are simultaneously dispensing to different wells, eliminating idle time and maintaining continuous productive action throughout the dispensing process.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple syringes are arranged in linear rows to increase capacity, then the dispensing capacity increases, but the pitch distance constraint limits the plunger diameter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The syringes are arranged in three-dimensional space rather than confined to linear rows. The first syringe is positioned at a first location, the second syringe at a second location, allowing different spatial configurations that increase the effective pitch distance and accommodate larger plunger diameters while maintaining high dispensing capacity.
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
The design allows for increased plunger diameter, enabling efficient dispensing from slight to great amounts with reduced movement time and improved accuracy, while maintaining a compact device size.
Implementation Method 1
a drive motor 104 that drives at least one of the plungers 101
Data Source
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AI summary
A multichannel dispenser 100 includes a plurality of syringes 103 each of which includes a plunger 101 and a housing 102, a drive motor 104 that drives at least one of the plungers 101, tip end portions 106 to which dispensing tips 105 are to be attached, and tubes 107A, 107B causing the syringes 103 and the tip end portions 106 to communicate with each other. The outer diameter 109 of the housing 102 is greater than a pitch distance 108 between the dispensing tips 105, and the plurality of syringes 103 is arranged in multiple lines. Thus, it is possible to increase a plunger diameter as compared to the related art, and to perform dispensing in amounts ranging from a slight amount to a great amount.