Pipet Tip Liquid Detection via Optical Refraction Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting liquid presence and volume in pipet tips require a minimum liquid volume of 10-20 μl, which is inadequate for modern applications involving smaller sample sizes, and lack direct visual confirmation of correct aspiration and dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a light source and camera to record and analyze the refraction pattern of a pipet tip, allowing for the detection of liquid presence, volume, and identity by comparing images, which provides direct visual evidence of correct pipetting without the need for minimum liquid volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If capacitative or pressure-based detection methods are used, then liquid surface detection is achieved, but a minimum liquid volume of 10-20 μl is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical detection methods (capacitative, pressure-based) with an optical imaging system. The imaging device captures refraction patterns of light passing through the pipet tip, enabling liquid detection without requiring minimum liquid volumes. This substitution of detection mechanism resolves the contradiction by eliminating the volume threshold requirement while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from physical properties (capacitance, pressure) to optical properties (light refraction patterns). By monitoring changes in refraction patterns rather than relying on minimum liquid masses, the system achieves accurate liquid detection at any volume, including volumes below the 10-20 μl threshold of conventional methods.
2Reliability
If pressure-based liquid surface detection is used, then aspiration control is achieved, but direct visual confirmation of correct pipetting is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (light) that provides direct visual information about liquid presence, volume, and characteristics. The imaging device acts as an intermediary that captures refraction patterns, enabling direct observation of the liquid state within the pipet tip. This visual intermediary resolves the information loss by providing direct evidence of correct pipetting, complementing pressure-based control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system provides real-time visual feedback about liquid aspiration and dispensing. By continuously capturing refraction patterns, the system offers direct feedback on whether liquid is present, its volume, and its characteristics. This feedback mechanism enhances reliability by allowing direct verification of pipetting accuracy, going beyond indirect pressure-based indicators.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional detection methods are used, then liquid presence is detected, but detection of smaller volumes and identification of liquid identity are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds the dimension of optical imaging to liquid detection. Instead of relying solely on volume-based physical detection, the system captures two-dimensional refraction patterns that provide information about both volume and liquid identity. The imaging device records light distribution patterns that vary with liquid properties, enabling simultaneous detection of small volumes and identification of liquid characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes optical properties of light interacting with liquids, including refraction patterns and potential color/absorption characteristics. Different liquids have distinct optical properties that create characteristic refraction patterns, enabling identity identification. This optical approach allows detection and characterization of liquids regardless of volume, resolving the limitation of conventional volume-threshold methods.
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 detection of liquid presence, volume, and identity in pipet tips, preventing artifacts like air bubbles and ensuring correct dispensing, even with smaller volumes, by using refraction patterns to derive information from images, thus addressing the limitations of existing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
having a camera record an image of light refracted by the carrier
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for detecting the presence and/or volume and/or identity of liquid in a transparent carrier include directing a light source towards the carrier; recording an image of light refracted by the carrier with a camera; and deriving information regarding the presence and/or volume of the liquid in the carrier from the recorded image of the light refracted by the carrier. Devices for detecting the presence and/or volume and/or identity of liquid in a transparent carrier include a camera directed towards the carrier; a light source directed towards the carrier; and means for recording an image of light from the light source as refracted by the carrier and captured by the camera.