Optical Sensor Pipette Tip Ejection Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample distribution systems, particularly automated pipetting robots, face challenges in reliably monitoring the ejection of pipette tips due to electrostatic sticking, which can lead to contamination and invalidation of samples if not detected correctly.
Innovation Solution
A sample distribution system equipped with a movable sensor unit that uses a light beam or light pulses to detect the presence and number of pipette tips, allowing for external monitoring of proper ejection and alignment, and an evaluation unit to assess the correct seating and shape of pipette tips, preventing contamination and ensuring accurate pipetting processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical sensors are used to monitor pipette tip ejection, then the ejection process can be detected, but electrostatic forces cause pipette tips to stick and remain undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensors with an optical sensor system that uses light beams to detect pipette tip presence. This substitution eliminates the problem of electrostatic interference that affects mechanical contact-based detection, allowing reliable detection of pipette tip ejection without being influenced by electrostatic sticking forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium between the sensor and pipette tip. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the optical sensor detects the presence or absence of pipette tips by measuring light transmission or reflection through the connecting piece, allowing indirect detection that avoids electrostatic interference.
2Reliability
If separate sensors are positioned in the connection area for each pipette tip, then ejection can be monitored, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single optical sensor system that can detect the presence or absence of multiple pipette tips simultaneously or sequentially. The sensor is positioned to detect light transmission through the connecting piece, which serves as a universal indicator for all tip ejection events, eliminating the need for separate sensors for each tip position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single optical sensor system. Instead of having separate sensors for each pipette tip connection point, the system merges detection capabilities by using one sensor to monitor light transmission through the connecting piece, which reflects the state of all connected tips.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If pipette tips are not properly ejected, then contamination occurs and samples are invalidated, but detection of stuck tips is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs detection of pipette tip ejection status before the pipetting process proceeds. The optical sensor checks whether tips have been properly ejected from the connecting piece in advance, allowing the system to identify stuck tips and prevent contamination before samples are affected.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the optical sensor continuously monitors pipette tip presence and provides real-time information to the control system. This feedback allows immediate detection of improperly ejected tips, enabling the system to halt operations and prevent contamination of samples.
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 system effectively monitors the ejection and alignment of pipette tips, preventing contamination and ensuring the reliability of the pipetting process by accurately detecting the presence, number, and proper seating of pipette tips, thereby maintaining sample integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor unit is designed to emit a light beam or light pulses, the main direction of a detection area of the sensor unit forming an acute angle with the direction of movement of the positioning device, in particular to infer the presence of a pipette tip when it is located in the detection area of the sensor unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A sample distribution system 1 is shown and described, comprising an adjusting device 4) for receiving a pipetting unit 2 with at least one replaceable pipette tip 3, wherein the adjusting device 4 is suitable for changing the position of the pipetting unit 2 relative to a base plate 5, and a sensor unit 12 configured to detect the presence or absence of pipette tips 3. According to the invention, the sensor unit 12 is designed as a light barrier, in particular as a reflective light barrier, and has a detection range. Furthermore, the sensor unit 12 and the pipetting unit 2 can be moved relative to each other to infer the presence of a pipette tip 3 when it is located within the detection range of the sensor unit 12.