Optically Readable Liquid Reservoirs with Meniscus Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid sampling devices face challenges in optically reading information due to light transmission interference from the meniscus, which alters the path focus and hinders accurate data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
The device features a reservoir design where the meniscus is located outside the reservoir, allowing light transmission through transparent top and bottom surfaces, coupled with a channel for fluidic connection to an assay chamber, and uses a rotatable disc for centrifugal force to convey liquid for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the reservoir is filled with liquid such that the meniscus is inside the reservoir, then the liquid volume is maximized, but light transmission is interfered with due to meniscus distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The meniscus is extracted from the reservoir by extending the liquid column beyond the reservoir boundaries into an extension region. This separation removes the distorting meniscus interface from the optical measurement path while maintaining adequate liquid volume in the reservoir for analysis.
2Measurement precision
If the meniscus is located outside the reservoir, then light transmission accuracy is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reservoir and extension region are merged into a single continuous liquid column structure. The extension region serves dual purposes: it extends the liquid column to move the meniscus outside the reservoir for accurate optical measurements, and it maintains fluidic continuity with the reservoir without requiring additional components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a channel is added to connect the reservoir to the assay chamber, then fluidic connection is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional regions: the reservoir for sample loading, the channel for fluidic transport, and the extension region for meniscus placement. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system simplicity through clear functional separation.
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
Enables accurate optical reading of liquid samples by minimizing meniscus interference and ensuring consistent light transmission, facilitating efficient data acquisition and reducing evaporation and bead movement during analysis.
Implementation Method 1
Rotating such disc can generate centrifugal force
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the upper reservoir surface and the lower reservoir surface is configured to transmit light
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
A device includes a lower reservoir surface, an upper reservoir surface, and a reservoir sidewall extending between the upper and lower reservoir surfaces which together define a reservoir. The reservoir is configured to be completely filled by a liquid such that the liquid forms a column contacting the upper reservoir surface, the lower reservoir surface, and the reservoir sidewall, with a meniscus of the liquid being outside of the reservoir. At least one of the upper reservoir surface and the lower reservoir surface is configured to transmit light.