Multiplex Pipette Cartridge Control for Continuous Assay Workflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated pipetting systems in the life sciences industry are limited in their ability to handle diverse pipetting procedures efficiently and dynamically, often requiring manual intervention and interrupting the workflow.
Innovation Solution
An automatic assaying system that enables a continuous uninterrupted flow of work item holders between storage and work sections, allowing for flexible loading and sequencing of pipetting protocols, including pipette tray replication, reformatting, reagent addition, and serial dilution, with a reader and controller to manage multiplexed pipetting operations and handle blockages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional automated pipetting systems are used, then automation is achieved, but the system lacks dynamic ability to handle distinct pipetting procedures and requires manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different pipetting procedures by receiving work items with varying characteristics (volumes, concentrations, frequencies) and automatically adjusts the pipetting protocol accordingly. The controller modifies pipetting parameters in real-time based on the specific work item requirements, enabling a single automated system to handle multiple distinct procedures without manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key parameters such as pipetting volume, frequency, concentration, and timing based on the work item characteristics. By varying these parameters dynamically, the system can accommodate different pipetting protocols (e.g., high-frequency low-volume vs. low-frequency high-volume) within the same automated framework, resolving the contradiction between automation and adaptability.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional automated systems are used, then pipetting accuracy is improved, but workflow continuity is interrupted due to manual intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-monitoring and self-correction by detecting blockages and other issues autonomously. When a blockage is detected, the system automatically attempts to resolve it or alerts appropriate personnel without interrupting the overall workflow. This self-service capability maintains both accuracy and continuity by eliminating the need for manual monitoring and intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates continuous feedback mechanisms where sensors monitor pipetting operations in real-time. When deviations from expected parameters (indicating blockages or errors) are detected, the system receives feedback and automatically adjusts or alerts operators. This closed-loop feedback maintains workflow continuity while preserving accuracy, as the system self-corrects issues without manual interruption.
3Device complexity
If a single pipetting protocol is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but flexibility to handle different pipetting characteristics is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by designing a single automated platform that can handle multiple pipetting protocols and work item types through programmable control. The same hardware infrastructure supports varied pipetting characteristics (volumes, frequencies, concentrations) by adjusting software-controlled parameters, eliminating the need for multiple specialized systems while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration by receiving work items with predefined characteristics before execution. The controller pre-plans the pipetting protocol based on the work item specifications, preparing all necessary parameters in advance. This preliminary action allows the system to maintain simplicity through standardized pre-configurations while achieving versatility by accommodating different work item types through pre-programmed adaptability.
4Ease of operation
If manual monitoring is performed, then system control is maintained, but operational efficiency is reduced due to interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system transfers monitoring and control functions to itself through automated detection and resolution capabilities. Sensors continuously monitor pipetting operations, and the controller automatically responds to detected issues without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach maintains operational efficiency by eliminating interruptions while preserving ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous automated feedback loops where sensors monitor pipetting parameters in real-time and the controller automatically adjusts or alerts operators as needed. This feedback mechanism maintains productivity by eliminating manual monitoring interruptions while ensuring system control through intelligent automated response to detected conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic assaying system having a multiplex pipette cartridge section in which pipette cartridges are docked. At least one pipette cartridge has a different pipetting characteristic from another corresponding pipette cartridge, the different pipetting characteristic being selectable from a number of different pipetting characteristics. A multiplexing work item holder has an array of work item holder docks that dock corresponding work item holders selectable from pipette trays and pipette tip set racks that define the selectable different pipetting characteristic. One or more of the work item holder docks are indexed to selectably multiplex both the different interchangeable pipette trays and the at least one pipette set rack. A carrier moves the pipette cartridge or a work item holder carriage and a controller selects the at least one pipette tip set rack corresponding to a work item holder dock so as to effect automatic selection of the different pipetting characteristic.