Pipetting Tip Array Alignment Using Contactless Orifice Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing contactless measurement systems for pipetting tips in automated systems are limited to measuring one tip at a time and do not effectively calculate and confirm the correct positioning of an array of pipetting tips, which can lead to misalignment and disruption in high-throughput laboratory protocols.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that uses an image capture device to map the orifices of multiple pipetting tips, sending data to a data processor to calculate alignment with respect to a virtual grid, allowing for the detection of misaligned or damaged tips before starting a pipetting protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an image capture device is used to measure multiple pipetting tips simultaneously, then measurement speed and productivity are improved, but the complexity of the measurement system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single image capture device that can simultaneously capture and analyze multiple pipetting tips in one field of view. This merging approach allows simultaneous measurement of multiple tips, improving productivity while managing system complexity through integration rather than using multiple separate measurement devices
Solution Approach 2:
The image capture device serves multiple functions: capturing images of pipetting tips, detecting their positions, determining alignment with the grid, and identifying potential issues. This multi-functionality improves measurement efficiency by consolidating what could be multiple separate operations into a single universal measurement system
2Measurement precision
If the measurement system captures and processes images of multiple pipetting tips, then alignment accuracy is improved, but the processing time and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary image capture and processing before the pipetting protocol begins. By measuring all pipetting tips in advance and determining their alignment status before use, the system ensures high measurement precision without delaying the actual pipetting operations, thus minimizing loss of time during critical processing phases
3Reliability
If contactless measurement is used to detect misaligned or damaged tips, then reliability is improved, but the need for additional measurement equipment increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces potential mechanical contact measurement methods with contactless optical measurement using an image capture device. This substitution improves reliability by eliminating the risk of contamination or damage from physical contact while using standard imaging technology rather than specialized mechanical measurement equipment, thus managing complexity
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
Ensures fast and reliable alignment measurements of an array of pipetting tips, reducing the risk of protocol disruption and material waste by identifying misalignments or damages, thus enhancing process security and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
An image capture device, with a sensor placed in face and distant of the orifices
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring the alignment of one or more pipetting tips in an automated pipetting system where the one or more pipetting tips are mounted on one or more adapters of a pipetting head approximately perpendicular to the pipetting head mounting surface is disclosed. The orifices at the end of the one or more pipetting tips are mapped with an image capture device having a sensor placed in face and distant of the orifices. The method sends the acquired data from mapping the orifices of the one or more pipetting tips to the data processor, generating an image of the orifices of the one or more pipetting tips, determining the center positions of orifices, and delivering alignment information for the one or more pipetting tips.