Multi-well wedge reagent container with auto-open capability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems face inefficiencies in reagent storage and utilization due to the use of single-welled containers that do not account for varying reagent volumes and stability, leading to wasted space and increased frequency of reagent loading and unloading, as well as potential reagent expiration.
Innovation Solution
A multi-well fluid container with varying well sizes for different reagent volumes, including anti-evaporation tubes, that can be automatically opened within a reagent server, optimizing storage capacity and reducing reagent waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If single-welled containers are used for reagent storage, then the container structure is simple, but the storage efficiency is low and reagent waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple wells of different sizes (first well, second well, third well) to segment reagent storage. Each well can hold different volumes of reagent based on usage patterns, allowing precise allocation and reducing waste from over-filled or under-utilized containers.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the container are designed with different well sizes tailored to specific reagent requirements. The first well holds low volume, the second well holds high volume, and the third well holds mid-volume reagents, optimizing storage efficiency for each reagent type based on its specific usage characteristics.
2Device complexity
If single-welled containers are used, then the container design is simple, but the frequency of reagent loading and unloading increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-welled container serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores different volumes of different reagents, reduces the need for frequent loading/unloading by consolidating multiple reagent types in one container, and provides anti-evaporation protection. This multi-functionality reduces operational frequency while maintaining reasonable design complexity.
3Device complexity
If uniform sized containers are used for all reagents, then the storage arrangement is simple, but the storage volume utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The container is segmented into wells of different volumes (low, high, mid) to match the varying storage requirements of different reagents. This segmentation allows efficient use of available storage volume within the container while maintaining a simple overall container structure that fits standard server slots.
Solution Approach 2:
Each well is designed with specific local capacity characteristics matched to the reagent it holds. The first well accommodates low volume reagents, the second well accommodates high volume reagents, and the third well accommodates mid-volume reagents, optimizing local storage efficiency throughout the container.
4Device complexity
If reagents are stored without volume differentiation, then the container structure is simple, but reagent expiration risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container segments reagents into different volume categories (low, high, mid) based on their usage rates and stability characteristics. This segmentation allows reagents with different expiration profiles to be stored appropriately, reducing the risk of expiration by matching storage volume to reagent usage patterns and stability requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-well fluid container that includes a container body is provided for use in an in vitro diagnostics automation system. The container body includes a first well having a first well size configured to hold a first fluid and an openable first well closure that covers a first well opening. The first well opening provides access to the first fluid in the first well when the openable first well closure is opened. The container body also includes a second well having a second well size configured to hold a second fluid and having an openable second well closure that covers a second well opening. The second well opening provides access to the second fluid in the second well when the openable second well closure is opened. The first well size of the first well is different than the second well size of the second well.