Pipetting Device with Drag-Based Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic pipetting devices are inflexible in terms of pipetting speed, often resulting in either high viscosity-related metering errors or prolonged processes due to fixed speed settings, which do not adapt to the drag caused by varying fluid viscosities or sample characteristics.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electric pipetting device with a measuring apparatus to detect drag-induced changes and an electric control apparatus that adjusts the pipetting speed automatically, allowing for real-time adaptation of the speed value based on measured drag, thereby optimizing the pipetting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed speed setting is used in electronic pipetting devices, then the device structure remains simple and operation is easy, but metering errors occur due to high viscosity-related drag and process duration is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a measuring apparatus continuously monitors drag during the pipetting process and transmits this information to a control apparatus. The control apparatus then adjusts the motor apparatus in real-time based on the measured drag values, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains metering accuracy despite variations in fluid viscosity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static, fixed speed setting into a dynamic adjustment system. The speed of the movable part (plunger) is no longer constant but varies continuously based on real-time drag measurements. The control apparatus modifies operational parameters on-the-fly to optimize pipetting performance for different fluid viscosities
2Productivity
If a fixed speed setting is used in electronic pipetting devices, then the device structure remains simple, but process duration is prolonged due to inability to adapt to drag variations
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring apparatus provides continuous feedback on drag conditions, enabling the control apparatus to optimize pipetting speed in real-time. This feedback loop allows the system to maintain high productivity by adapting to actual fluid resistance without requiring complex pre-programming or manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically monitoring its own operational conditions through the measuring apparatus and making necessary speed modifications through the control apparatus. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external intervention or complex user programming, improving productivity while keeping the interface simple
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed speed values are predetermined by user or instrument, then the pipetting process is simplified to operate, but flexibility is reduced and metering errors occur with varying viscosities
Solution Approach 1:
The real-time drag measurement and feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically adapt to different fluid viscosities. The control apparatus uses the measured drag values to adjust operational parameters dynamically, providing versatility across different sample types without requiring users to manually reconfigure settings for each viscosity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter changes by continuously modifying the speed parameter based on measured drag conditions. This allows the system to adapt to varying viscosities by changing operational parameters in real-time, maintaining both ease of operation (automatic adjustment) and adaptability (response to different fluid properties)
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
This solution enhances the flexibility and efficiency of the pipetting process by ensuring accurate metering and reducing process duration, while preventing metering errors and improving productivity by dynamically adjusting speed according to the fluid's viscosity and sample characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
liquid samples are sucked up by means of negative pressure in pipette containers
Implementation Method 2
the dispenser is also referred to as a direct displacement pipette
Implementation Method 3
a measuring apparatus, by means of which at least one measured value which is influenced by the drag caused when pipetting the fluid sample is measurable
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a pipetting device, more particularly a pipette or repeater pipette, for pipetting fluid laboratory samples, comprising: an electric control apparatus, by means of which a pipetting process is electrically controllable, a movable part, by means of the movement of which the fluid sample is pipettable, an electrically actuatable motor apparatus, by means of which the movement of the movable part is driveable depending on at least one first speed value defining the speed of the movable part, a measuring apparatus, by means of which at least one measured value which is influenced by the drag caused when pipetting the fluid sample is measurable, wherein the electric control apparatus is configured for the purposes of the at least one first speed value being fixable by the electric control apparatus, depending on at least one measured value. The invention furthermore relates to a method for operating the pipetting device.