Robotic Drug Processing System with Integrated Agitation and Liquid Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated drug preparation systems face inefficiencies due to complex setups, require skilled operators, and struggle with achieving targeted concentration values, leading to increased processing times and costs, with issues such as protein suspension in solution and equipment damage from repeated movement of filter plates.
Innovation Solution
A robotic-based drug processing system with a workstation, agitating member, liquid handler, and plate mover, which includes a vortex plate for mixing and a six-tip member for simultaneous fluid addition/removal, along with a visual identification system and adapter bracket to securely hold filter plates, enabling automated reconstitution and concentration of drug substances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a robotic-based system with integrated agitation and liquid handling is used, then processing efficiency and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the agitation member (vortex mixer) and liquid handler member (pipetting robot) into a single integrated robotic system that operates within the same workstation. This merging of previously separate functions into one coordinated system improves processing efficiency by eliminating the need for multiple separate equipment pieces while managing complexity through unified control software.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can agitate/filter plates using the agitation member, perform liquid handling operations using the liquid handler member, and selectively operate each function as needed. This multi-functionality allows a single system to replace multiple specialized devices, improving productivity while consolidating complexity into one universal platform.
2Adaptability or versatility
If filter plates are repeatedly moved using a gripping member, then processing flexibility is improved, but reliability decreases due to dropping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter bracket as an intermediary component that couples between the gripping member and the filter plate. This adapter provides a secure mechanical interface with features like grooves or notches that positively engage the plate, preventing dropping while still allowing the robotic system to move plates flexibly to different positions within the workstation for various processing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter bracket design incorporates features that prevent dropping before it occurs by providing secure engagement points and stable coupling between the gripper and filter plate. This preventive design ensures reliable plate handling throughout the processing sequence without requiring corrective actions after drops occur.
3Manufacturing precision
If components are precisely positioned, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The filter plates and adapter brackets are designed with self-aligning features such as grooves, notches, or keyed interfaces that automatically guide components into the correct position when brought together. This self-alignment mechanism eliminates the need for operators to manually precision-position components, maintaining high positioning accuracy while significantly improving ease of operation and reducing setup 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
The system increases drug concentration by 5 mg/mL and yield by 15 μL per well, reduces equipment damage, and enhances processing efficiency by automating tasks like pipetting and mixing, while ensuring safe and precise handling of filter plates.
Implementation Method 1
The agitating member is adapted to move the at least one filter plate according to an agitation system
Implementation Method 2
The at least one filter plate has a plurality of wells to receive a fluid therein
Data Source
AI summary
A drug processing system includes a workstation, at least one deck module movably positionable within the workstation, at least one filter plate operably coupled with the at least one deck module, an agitating member, and a liquid handler member. The at least one filter plate has a plurality of wells to receive a fluid therein. The agitating member is adapted to move the at least one filter plate according to an agitation system. The liquid handler member is adapted to selectively add a fluid to at least one of the plurality of wells and/or remove a fluid from the at least one of the plurality of wells according to a liquid handling system. The agitating member is adapted to move the at least one filter plate while the liquid handler member selectively adds and/or removes the fluid from the at least one of the plurality of wells.