Pipetting Container Position Detection Using Stored Relative Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laboratory automats face challenges in achieving precise and cost-effective automated operation due to the deformation of pipetting containers, which affects the accuracy of fluid delivery, especially in high-density sample setups, and requires costly geometry measurements for alignment.
Innovation Solution
A measuring apparatus that includes a holding device with a measurement support section and electronic control for data processing, using first and second measuring devices to determine the relative position of the pipetting container's end region, allowing for precise positioning without the need for frequent geometry measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional pipetting containers are used without measurement, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with optical measurement methods. A camera captures images of the pipetting container, and image processing algorithms determine the position and orientation of deformation markers, substituting physical contact measurement with non-contact optical detection to maintain positioning accuracy while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the pipetting container's geometric information through image capture and processing. The actual physical measurements are replaced by creating and analyzing digital images of the container, allowing the system to track deformation and positioning through image data rather than direct mechanical measurement
2Measurement precision
If geometry measurements are performed frequently, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases due to workflow delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement by capturing an image of the pipetting container immediately after it is mounted on the holder, before the actual liquid handling workflow begins. This preliminary measurement establishes baseline geometric information and deformation characteristics, allowing subsequent operations to proceed without repeated measurements while maintaining positioning accuracy through the stored reference data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous workflow by performing measurement non-intrusively during normal operations. The optical measurement system captures images without interrupting the liquid handling process, and the system continuously tracks positioning through image analysis, maintaining measurement precision while ensuring uninterrupted productivity
3Ease of manufacture
If single geometry measurement is performed, then cost is reduced, but reliability decreases due to deformation over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the position and orientation of deformation markers are continuously monitored through image capture and processing. The measured deformation information is fed back to the control system, which automatically compensates for positioning errors by adjusting the coordinates of the liquid handling operations, maintaining reliability without requiring frequent re-measurement or replacement of containers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive and time-consuming physical geometry measurement systems with cost-effective optical imaging and image processing. The system uses standard imaging technology to capture container geometry and uses software algorithms to analyze deformation, significantly reducing measurement costs while maintaining reliable positioning through continuous digital tracking of deformation markers
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 cost-efficient and reliable automated operation by simplifying position measurements, reducing workflow delays, and ensuring precise alignment of pipetting containers, even after reuse, through relative position data storage and non-contact optical measurements.
Implementation Method 1
non-contact optical measurements
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring apparatus usable in a liquid handling apparatus, and method, for detecting a deformed pipetting container using a first and a second measuring device, the measuring apparatus being configured to determine the position of an end region of the pipetting container as a f unction of a position of a measurement support section of the pipetting container as relative position data in a data storage device, so that subsequently the position of the end region of the pipetting container can be determined by measuring the position of the measurement support section and from the relative position data.