Reagent Manifold Filter Assembly for Leak-Free User Maintenance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automated biological testing systems require frequent maintenance and reliance on external technicians for component replacement and cleaning, affecting their usability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A reagent manifold system with an in-line filter and gasket assembly that allows users to perform maintenance tasks, such as replacing reagent bottles and filters, while maintaining a seal to prevent leakage and particulate transfer, enabling extended system usage without external assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated biological testing systems are implemented, then analysis accuracy and reliability are improved, but maintenance frequency increases and external technician dependency worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to perform maintenance tasks independently through a user-friendly bottle replacement interface. The bottle holder assembly automatically manages reagent bottle insertion, sealing, and fluid connection without requiring external technician assistance, allowing users to service the system themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The reagent delivery system is divided into modular components including removable reagent bottles, separable bottle holder assemblies, and discrete filter elements. This segmentation allows individual components to be easily replaced and maintained by users without affecting the entire system.
2Reliability
If reagent bottles are frequently replaced, then reagent freshness is improved, but system downtime and maintenance burden worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes pre-sealed reagent bottles that are prepared in advance with sterile closures and pre-attached filters. Bottles can be stored ready-to-use and quickly installed without requiring on-site preparation or complex setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes disposable reagent bottles with single-use seals and filters that are discarded after use. This eliminates the need for cleaning and sterilization of reusable components, allowing rapid replacement of consumed reagents without extensive maintenance procedures.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If in-line filters are installed, then particulate contamination is reduced, but device complexity and cleaning requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is integrated directly into the reagent bottle assembly, merging the filtration function with the container. This eliminates separate filter components and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining effective particulate removal from reagents.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter acts as an intermediary element positioned between the reagent bottle and the testing system fluid pathways. It captures particulates in-line without requiring complex filtration systems or multiple cleaningable components throughout the instrument.
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
The system enhances the reliability and usability of automated biological testing systems by allowing end-users to perform maintenance tasks, reducing reliance on external technicians and extending the time between necessary maintenance, thereby maintaining performance and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
A filtration system is provided within the reagent manifold. The filtration system includes a filter having a filter opening.
Implementation Method 2
A gasket is contactable with the bottle cap such that the gasket seals against the bottle cap and contacts the reagent channel outlet to prevent liquid from leaking past the gasket.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Automated biological testing systems may advantageously allow users to perform some maintenance or upkeep of the system, such as replacing or refilling reagent, or replacing gaskets, hoses, filters, and other components. A manifold seal and filtration system including a gasket, retaining ring, and filter is usable with a manifold of such a system to transport reagent from a bottle to the testing system. The gasket includes features to prevent leakage and erroneous installation, and may be replaced by a user during normal maintenance or to select a gasket material to accommodate a particular type of reagent. The retention ring and filter include features to prevent particulate from passing into the testing system when reagent bottles are changed, and to prevent accidental displacement during removal of the gasket, or flushing of the manifold to clean the filter.