Real-Time Pipetting Parameter Optimization via Pressure Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated liquid handling instruments require complex and time-consuming calibration of control parameters for each type of liquid, making them inaccessible to average lab workers due to the need for specialized training and knowledge of liquid properties.
Innovation Solution
An automatic liquid transfer optimization apparatus and method that uses a pump, pressure sensor, and controller to adjust pipetting parameters in real-time, limiting working pressure and predicting completion time, allowing accurate pipetting without prior knowledge of liquid properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If control parameters are calibrated for each type of liquid, then pipetting accuracy and precision are improved, but the complexity and time required for setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines optimal pipetting parameters by monitoring pressure characteristics during the operation. The controller analyzes the pressure curve generated by the liquid's flow properties and self-adjusts parameters such as pump actuation rate, probe immersion depth, and removal speed without requiring manual calibration by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
A pressure sensor provides real-time feedback on the pressure characteristics of the liquid being pipetted. The controller uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust control parameters during the pipetting operation, ensuring optimal performance adapted to the specific liquid properties.
2Manufacturing precision
If control parameters are manually tuned by specialists, then pipetting performance is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic parameter optimization without requiring specialist intervention. Any user can operate the system by simply selecting the liquid type from a menu, and the system handles the complex parameter tuning automatically based on real-time pressure measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment of parameters by specialists is replaced with an automated electronic control system that uses pressure sensor data and algorithms to determine optimal settings, making the system accessible to users without specialized training.
3Ease of operation
If default parameters are used for aqueous solutions, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to other liquids decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains a set of default parameters for common aqueous solutions while also being capable of adapting to any liquid type through automatic parameter determination. Users can start with defaults for water-like liquids, and the system will automatically adjust parameters when dealing with liquids having different viscosity or flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static default parameters to dynamic parameter adjustment based on real-time pressure measurements. The control parameters are no longer fixed but are continuously optimized based on the actual liquid properties encountered during operation.
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
Simplifies the user experience by eliminating the need for prior calibration and knowledge of liquid properties, enabling accurate and repeatable pipetting operations with minimal training, and reducing the complexity of programming automated liquid handlers.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor connected to the conduit, the pressure sensor being adapted to measure the working air pressure, the ambient pressure, and changes to the working air pressure caused by aspiration or dispensation of a liquid by the pipette tip
Implementation Method 2
actuating pump to displace a volume of air in the conduit, the volume of air corresponding to a desired volume of the liquid being aspirated or dispensed
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
An automatic liquid transfer optimization pipetting apparatus and method is disclosed. Namely, a liquid handling apparatus includes a pump supplying a nozzle (i.e., a pipette tip) via a conduit, one or more pressure sensors, and an electronic controller, and wherein the pipette tip is submerged in a liquid. Further, a method of automatic liquid transfer optimization pipetting includes the steps of actuating the pump to move a designated volume of liquid and then allowing the system to settle to a steady state after completion of pump actuation.