Automated Nucleic Acid Analyzer with Reusable Pipette Tips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analytical apparatuses for nucleic acid analysis are limited by their modular structure, which often requires multiple modules for different operations and lacks an efficient transport system, leading to increased complexity and reduced user accessibility.
Innovation Solution
An automated analytical apparatus with an improved modular arrangement, including a sample dispensing station, separation station, and reaction station, utilizing a handler for efficient transport and re-use of pipette tips, and a multiwell plate system for processing and amplification, enhancing accessibility and reducing consumable usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules are used for different operations, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: sample dispensing station, separation station, reaction station, and handler. Each module performs a specific function in the nucleic acid analysis workflow, allowing the system to handle complex operations through coordinated module interactions rather than a monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The handler module serves multiple functions: it transports multiwell plates between stations, handles pipette tips, and coordinates the overall workflow. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each task, thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules are used for different operations, then functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated sample processing, transport, and data analysis without requiring manual intervention. The handler automatically transports plates and manages pipette tips, while the stations execute their functions autonomously. This automation eliminates complex manual operations and improves ease of use while maintaining full functionality.
3Productivity
If a transport system is added to connect modules, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport function is merged into the handler module, which also manages plate handling, pipette tip coordination, and workflow control. By combining these functions into a single integrated component rather than separate transport mechanisms, the system achieves improved productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.
4Reliability
If disposable pipette tips are used, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system recovers and reuses pipette tips by implementing a cleaning and sterilization process. The handler transports used tips to a cleaning station where they are processed and returned to the sample dispensing station for reuse. This recovers the consumable resource while maintaining the reliability benefits of single-use tips through proper cleaning and contamination prevention.
Data Source
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AI summary
An analytical apparatus and a method for isolating and analyzing at least one analyte are described, comprising at least one module for receiving and dispensing a sample to be analyzed, at least one module for isolating said analyte to be analyzed, at least one module for analyzing said analyte, wherein said modules (i) to (iii) are arranged along an axis.