Time-Multiplexed Pipetting Arrangement with Shared Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipetting arrangements require multiple pumping arrangements for each set of pipettes, leading to increased constructional volume, weight, and cost, which is inefficient and limits the ability to apply high conveyance accelerations during liquid handling.
Innovation Solution
A pipetting arrangement utilizing a single common pumping arrangement connected to multiple sets of pipettes via a timing-control unit, allowing for time-multiplexed operation, which reduces the number of precision pumps needed and enables flexible control of aspirated volumes by controlling valve operation times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pumping arrangements are used for each set of pipettes, then the reliability and precision of liquid handling is improved, but the constructional volume and weight of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple pumping arrangements into a single shared pumping arrangement that serves multiple sets of pipettes through time-multiplexed operation. The control unit alternates the operation of a single pump between different pipette sets, eliminating the need for separate pumps for each pipette while maintaining reliable liquid handling through precise temporal control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using a control unit that alternates the operation of a single pumping arrangement between different sets of pipettes in time-multiplexed intervals. The pump operates periodically, connecting to one pipette set during one time interval and another pipette set during a subsequent time interval, thereby serving multiple functions with a single component.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple pumping arrangements are used for each set of pipettes, then the manufacturing precision of liquid doses is improved, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single pumping arrangement that performs multiple functions by serving different sets of pipettes at different times. The same pump is universally used across multiple pipette sets through time-multiplexed control, reducing the number of components while maintaining the precision required for accurate liquid dosing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that manages the connection between the single pumping arrangement and multiple pipette sets. It coordinates the timing and switching of the pump's operation between different pipettes, ensuring precise liquid dosing without requiring each pipette to have its own dedicated pump, thereby reducing system complexity.
3Volume of stationary object
If a single common pumping arrangement is used for multiple sets of pipettes, then the constructional volume and weight are reduced, but the challenge of maintaining precise control over aspirated volumes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a control unit that dynamically adjusts the operation timing of the single pumping arrangement to precisely control the volume aspirated by each pipette. The system transitions between different operational states, connecting the pump to different pipette sets at different times, with the control unit monitoring and adjusting parameters to maintain volume precision despite the shared pump resource.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the operation of the single pumping arrangement and adjust its timing and parameters to ensure precise volume control for each pipette set. By receiving feedback on pump performance and liquid flow, the control unit can compensate for variations and maintain accurate dosing precision even though multiple pipettes share a common pump.
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
This approach significantly reduces the constructional volume and weight of the pipetting system, enabling higher conveyance accelerations and optimizing liquid dose handling by allowing for precise control of aspirated volumes, thus improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a pumping arrangement generating an aspiration effect to said aspiration port
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a pipetting arrangement comprising at least two sets of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d). Each set of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d) is operationally connected, via a controllable ON/OFF valve (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d) to a common aspiration port (7). Latter is connectable to a pumping arrangement. The valves (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d) are controlled by a timing-control unit (15) conceived to establish, by control of the valves (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d), the operational connections of the at least two sets of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d) to the aspiration port (7) in a time-multiplexed manner.