Multiwell Strip Segmented Frame and Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiwell strips made of polypropylene are prone to heat distortion and lack stiffness, making them difficult to handle and unsuitable for automated procedures, as they do not provide adequate thermal diffusivity and rigidity for handling and robotic manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A multiwell strip with a stiffer frame and thinner, thermally conductive wells made of different materials, allowing for improved thermal diffusivity and rigidity, enabling easy handling and automation, and featuring adjustable well shapes and labeling options for enhanced identification and compatibility with standard systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If polypropylene material is used for multiwell strips, then thermal diffusivity is provided, but stiffness and resistance to heat distortion are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The multiwell strip is divided into two distinct material components: a stiff frame portion made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and well portions made of polypropylene (PP). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the frame provides structural rigidity while the well portions provide thermal diffusivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the multiwell strip are assigned different material properties. The frame portion uses PET with high stiffness and heat resistance, while the well portions use PP with good thermal diffusivity. This local differentiation of material qualities resolves the contradiction between overall structural stiffness and thermal performance.
2Temperature
If polypropylene material is used for multiwell strips, then thermal diffusivity is provided, but handling ease and automation compatibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The multiwell strip is divided into two distinct material components: a stiff frame portion made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and well portions made of polypropylene (PP). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the frame provides structural rigidity while the well portions provide thermal diffusivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the multiwell strip are assigned different material properties. The frame portion uses PET with high stiffness and heat resistance, while the well portions use PP with good thermal diffusivity. This local differentiation of material qualities resolves the contradiction between overall structural stiffness and thermal performance.
3Strength
If frame portion is made of stiffer material, then handling and automation are improved, but thermal transfer capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The multiwell strip is divided into two distinct material components: a stiff frame portion made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and well portions made of polypropylene (PP). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the frame provides structural rigidity while the well portions provide thermal diffusivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the multiwell strip are assigned different material properties. The frame portion uses PET with high stiffness and heat resistance, while the well portions use PP with good thermal diffusivity. This local differentiation of material qualities resolves the contradiction between overall structural stiffness and thermal performance.
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 multiwell strip effectively withstands high temperatures during thermal cycling procedures, facilitates manual and automated handling, and allows for precise thermal transfer, while the stiffer frame and labeling enhance handling and identification, ensuring compatibility with various systems and procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the frame portion (2) confers the strip a rigidity, strength and straightness required for easy handling and robotic manipulation
Implementation Method 2
the wells (3) in which the samples are placed have other desired properties. As they are often used in procedures employing heat they have to withstand high temperatures and at the same time provide good thermal diffusivity
Implementation Method 3
The thinner a material is the faster the temperature of the surroundings is transferred into the inner portion of the well. Thus the wells (3) of the multiwell strip (1) are relatively thin to facilitate optimal thermal transfer to samples during thermal cycling procedures
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multiwell strip comprising a frame portion consisting of a first stiff material, and a plurality of wells arranged in a line and consisting of a second material, which is not as stiff as the first material. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a multiwell-frame for obtaining a multiwell strip according to the present invention and methods for producing a multiwell strip according to the present invention.