Sample Containers With Embedded Identification Marks For Acoustic Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample containers are not compatible with acoustic ejection systems and lack efficient identification methods, leading to challenges in handling and processing biological samples, especially when multiple samples need to be stored and retrieved efficiently.
Innovation Solution
Development of sample containers with multiple reservoirs and embedded identification marks, such as barcodes, that are machine-readable and durable, allowing for efficient acoustic ejection and identification even when containers are stacked or in close proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional sample containers are used, then manual handling and orientation are required for identification, but this increases handling time and contamination risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling and visual identification with automated optical scanning systems that read barcodes printed directly on container surfaces. The barcode reader automatically detects and reads identification marks without requiring manual orientation or handling, enabling automated high-throughput sample processing while reducing contamination risks from manual contact.
2Loss of information
If barcodes are printed on container surfaces, then identification is possible, but acoustic ejection is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by printing barcodes only on specific regions of the container that do not interfere with acoustic ejection. The identification marks are placed on the upper peripheral surface or side surfaces away from the bottom surface where acoustic waves are applied, allowing simultaneous achievement of identification capability and acoustic ejection functionality in different local regions of the same container.
3Productivity
If multiple samples are stored in separate containers, then sample storage is simple, but retrieval efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sample storage functions into a single container by dividing the container interior into multiple compartments or reservoirs, each capable of holding different samples. The container maintains a unified external structure with a single barcode for identification, allowing automated systems to retrieve one container containing multiple samples rather than retrieving multiple separate containers, thereby improving retrieval efficiency while maintaining organizational simplicity.
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 solution enables efficient storage, retrieval, and analysis of multiple samples by facilitating acoustic ejection and identification without the need for manual handling or orientation, improving throughput and reducing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric transducer is driven by a waveform chosen by a controller and in response generates acoustic energy
Implementation Method 2
The acoustic energy often is focused by an acoustic lens, and coupled to a reservoir or container containing fluid through an acoustic coupling medium
Implementation Method 3
The acoustic energy often is focused by an acoustic lens, and coupled to a reservoir or container containing fluid through an acoustic coupling medium (e.g., water). If the focused energy has a focal point inside a fluid in the container and close to a free surface of that fluid, a droplet may be ejected
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A container may include a tubular sidewall defining interior and exterior surfaces of the container, and including first and second regions disposed relative to one another along a major axis of the tubular sidewall. An identification mark may be embedded within the tubular sidewall at sectors about the tubular sidewall within the first region. Each sector may have a width, and the identification mark is machine readable by a reader viewing any arbitrary one or more of the sectors. Also provided herein is generally tubular container, preferably including a plurality of reservoirs defined therein. The container can be adapted for acoustic ejection of a fluid disposed within at least one of the reservoirs of the plurality of reservoirs. Alternatively, the container can be adapted for extraction of a fluid disposed within at least one of the reservoirs of the plurality of reservoirs using a non-acoustic liquid handling method.