Multiwell Plate Frame Lateral Clearance Thermal Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The mechanical stress caused by differential thermal expansion between multiwell plates and their frames in analytical systems can lead to warping, cracking, and distortion, compromising the integrity of the system and the accuracy of biological or chemical assays.
Innovation Solution
An analytical system comprising a multiwell plate with an optically transparent area, a frame that holds the plate with sufficient lateral clearance to accommodate differential expansion, and a baseplate to which the multiwell plate is firmly fixed via a docking mechanism, allowing for compensation of differential expansion without direct fixation between the frame and the baseplate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the multiwell plate and frame are made of different materials to fulfill different functional requirements (transparent material for optical detection, robust material for frame), then the functional performance is improved, but differential thermal expansion occurs causing warping, cracking, and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate components (multiwell plate and frame) that can expand independently. The multiwell plate is held by the frame with sufficient lateral clearance, allowing each component to undergo thermal expansion without constraining the other, thus preventing warping and structural damage while maintaining different material properties for optimal functional performance
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary between the multiwell plate and the baseplate. It holds the multiwell plate with lateral clearance, mediating the thermal expansion forces and preventing direct transmission of stress that would cause warping or cracking. This intermediary structure allows differential expansion while maintaining system integrity
2Manufacturing precision
If the multiwell plate is firmly fixed to the frame to prevent movement, then positioning stability is improved, but differential thermal expansion causes warping, cracking, and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The frame holds the multiwell plate with sufficient lateral clearance, allowing the plate to move dynamically in response to thermal expansion while maintaining proper positioning. This dynamic approach prevents structural damage while preserving positioning stability
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral clearance parameter is specifically designed to accommodate thermal expansion. By changing the clearance parameter from zero (fixed) to a sufficient value, the system allows for parameter changes in plate position during thermal cycles, preventing warping and cracking while maintaining positioning stability within acceptable limits
3Measurement precision
If direct fixation between frame and baseplate is used to ensure stable positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the system cannot compensate for differential expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is segmented into two independent connections: (1) frame to multiwell plate with lateral clearance for expansion compensation, and (2) baseplate to multiwell plate via docking mechanism for positioning accuracy. This segmentation allows each connection to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other
Solution Approach 2:
The multiwell plate itself acts as an intermediary between the frame and baseplate. The frame holds the plate with clearance for expansion, while the plate's docking mechanism provides firm fixation to the baseplate for positioning accuracy. This intermediary role of the multiwell plate enables both expansion compensation and precise positioning simultaneously
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 solution effectively compensates for differential expansion, maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the analytical system, and allowing for flexible use in various applications, including optical detection and thermocycling.
Implementation Method 1
different expansion properties, such as under changing influences as in thermal incubation processes or the like. The mechanical stress upon heating/cooling cycles such as in a PCR, causing differential thermal expansion in frame and multiwell plate
Implementation Method 2
optical detection is the most commonly used method for measuring reactions, particularly with regard to arrays of wells representing a multitude of different reactions
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an analytical system with at least three components: a multiwell plate on which the wells are included in an optically transparent area; a frame holding the multiwell plate close to its edge while permitting the plate a certain extent of freedom of movement; a baseplate to which the multiwell plate, but not the frame is firmly fixed via a docking mechanism, such that different expansion of plate and frame can be compensated. A second aspect described herein relates to a method of docking a corresponding multiwell plate held by a frame to a baseplate and subjecting the multiwell plate to a step of a biological or chemical assay within this arrangement.