Reagent Container Fluidic Interface with Swing-Bar Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laboratories face challenges with labor-intensive preparation of reagent solutions and issues related to degradation and spillage during shipping and handling of liquid reagents in kits.
Innovation Solution
A container design with a swing bar and cradle mechanism that securely engages with an instrument interface, featuring multiple ports and seals to minimize leakage, along with a fluidics system for controlled reagent delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pre-made reagent solutions are provided in kits to reduce preparation time, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to degradation and spillage during shipping and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent system is segmented into separate components: a stable reagent concentrate in a vial and a separate diluent or activation mechanism. This segmentation allows the reagent to remain stable during shipping in concentrated form while enabling quick preparation at the point of use, thus improving both productivity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Reagents are pre-prepared and pre-packaged in stable concentrated forms during manufacturing, eliminating the need for labor-intensive preparation at the laboratory. The preliminary action of concentrating and stabilizing the reagent before shipping ensures both time savings and reliability during transport
2Productivity
If liquid reagents are shipped in kits to reduce preparation time, then productivity is improved, but loss of substance worsens due to spillage during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent is contained in a flexible sealed vial or pouch that can withstand shipping vibrations and handling without breaking. The flexible containment with integrated sealing mechanisms prevents spillage while maintaining the ability to quickly access and dispense the reagent, reducing both loss of substance and preparation time
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging design includes cushioning elements and shock-absorbing structures built into the container and shipping box before the reagent is subjected to shipping stresses. This beforehand cushioning protects the liquid reagent from breakage and spillage during handling while maintaining quick access capability
3Reliability
If a swing bar and cradle mechanism is used to engage the container with the instrument interface, then reliability is improved through secure engagement, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The swing bar mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the cradle when the container is inserted into the instrument. The container's own weight and geometry drive the engagement process without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, thus improving reliability while minimizing added complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The swing bar engagement follows a simple periodic motion pattern: the container is inserted, the swing bar rotates into the cradle, and the connection is established. This simple periodic action provides reliable engagement without requiring complex multi-step mechanisms or control systems
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes a lower portion and a lid to connect with the lower portion. The lid includes a fluidic interface, a swing bar, and a counter structure disposed on an opposite side of the fluidic interface relative to the swing bar. The fluidic interface includes a first liquid port, a second liquid port, a gas port, and a seal ring disposed around the first liquid port, the second liquid port, and the gas port, the first liquid port disposed along a center axis of the container.