Pipette Tip Container Processing to Cut Sample Prep Waste
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sample processing in chemical and biological analyses are complicated, costly, and generate significant waste due to the use of disposable pipette tips and separate containers, leading to inefficient and space-consuming procedures.
Innovation Solution
The method involves processing samples directly in pipette tip containers, which serve as both a transport and processing vessel, eliminating the need for separate containers and reducing waste, while utilizing a pipetting robot for automated handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If separate containers are used for sample transport and processing, then sample processing can be performed, but the method becomes complicated and expensive with increased waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport function and processing function into a single pipette tip container. The container serves dual purposes: transporting the sample to the processing station and performing the actual sample processing (dilution, mixing, etc.) within the same vessel, thereby eliminating the need for separate containers and reducing procedural complexity and waste
Solution Approach 2:
The pipette tip container is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a transport vessel, a processing vessel for sample preparation, and a disposal container. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated containers for each step, simplifying the overall process and reducing consumable waste
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate containers are used for sample processing steps, then thorough sample preparation can be achieved, but the method becomes space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sample preparation operations (dilution, mixing, reagent addition) are merged and performed within the single pipette tip container, eliminating the need for multiple separate processing vessels and thereby reducing the space required for sample preparation
3Reliability
If disposable pipette tips and separate containers are used, then sterility is maintained, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pipette tip container serves multiple functions including transport, processing, and disposal, reducing the total number of disposable items needed while maintaining sterility through the integrated design and single-use nature of the container system
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automated processing of a sample using a first pipette tip container (110) having a first pipette tip comprises the steps of: removing the first pipette tip (160) from the first pipette tip container (110); feeding the sample into the first pipette tip container (110); processing the sample in the first pipette tip container (110). A rack (100) comprises at least one first pipette tip container (110) having a first pipette tip (160), wherein the rack (100) comprises means for identifying an alignment of an orientation of the rack (100) in a rack receptacle of an apparatus for automated processing of a sample. A transport arrangement comprises at least two racks (100), wherein at least one bottom region of a pipette tip container (110) of a first rack (100) is in direct contact with a releasable covering, in particular a tear-off film of a second rack (100).