Sample Preparation Apparatus with Vertical Filtration and Segmented Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample preparation apparatuses face difficulties in rapidly obtaining concentrated cell samples due to the need to manually maneuver filters during the sample concentration process, which complicates the setup and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The sample preparation apparatus is designed with separate receiving parts for sample discharge and filtration, allowing the pipette to operate independently of the filter's position, and includes a mechanism for gravity-assisted sample movement and a rotary stirrer for easy cell detachment, simplifying the process and reducing the required installation area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the filter is positioned in the movement path of the pipette for sample discharge and aspiration, then the filtration function is integrated, but the pipette cannot be rapidly positioned and the process efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a filter assembly with filtration chamber positioned independently from the pipette movement path, and a receiving chamber for sample collection. This segmentation allows the pipette to operate independently without being blocked by the filter, enabling rapid positioning and efficient sample concentration simultaneously.
2Area of stationary object
If the filtration surface is arranged parallel to the horizontal direction, then the filter structure is conventional, but the apparatus occupies larger installation area
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration surface is rotated from a conventional horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation. This dimensional change allows the filter assembly to be positioned in the vertical space above the receiving chamber, utilizing the third dimension (height) rather than occupying more horizontal area. The filter assembly can now be compactly arranged above the receiving chamber, significantly reducing the horizontal installation footprint while maintaining filtration functionality.
3Productivity
If manual maneuvering of the filter is required during sample concentration, then the setup is simple, but the process efficiency and speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is designed to automatically perform filtration functions without requiring manual intervention. The independent positioning of the filter assembly allows it to automatically filter samples as they are aspirated and discharged, with the system self-regulating the filtration process through its structural design, thereby eliminating the need for manual filter maneuvering and improving overall preparation efficiency.
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
This design enables rapid and efficient sample concentration, simplifies the apparatus structure, and allows for compact installation, facilitating the rapid positioning of the pipette and easy filter handling, thereby improving the overall sample preparation process.
Implementation Method 1
a filter part (F) having a filtration surface for concentrating the sample
Implementation Method 2
the sample stored in the second receiving part moves to the first receiving part via the force of gravity
Implementation Method 3
a stirrer disposed at the bottom of the receiving chamber... The cells adhered to the bottom surface of the filter are detached from the filter by suitably operating the stirrer
Data Source
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AI summary
A sample preparation apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a first receiving part, a second receiving part, a filter part, a third receiving part, a flow path, a first moving means and a second moving means. The first receiving part is configured to accept a pipette and to receive a sample discharged from a pipette. The second receiving part is disposed at a position removed from the first receiving part in the plane of view. The filter part is configured to retain the cells to be analyzed within the second receiving part. The third receiving part is disposed opposite the second receiving part through the filter part The flow path is configured to connect the first receiving part and the second receiving part The first moving means is for moving a sample that has been received at the first receiving part to the filter part through the flow path and the second receiving part, and moving the components other than the cells to be analyzed to the third receiving part through the filter part. The second moving means is for moving the cells to be analyzed in the second receiving part from the second receiving part to the first receiving part.