Self-Centering Module Mount for Fast Liquid Handler Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated liquid handling systems face challenges in efficiently mounting and adjusting modular devices, such as pipette modules, on liquid handling workstations, requiring a solution for rapid and precise attachment and adjustment to enhance flexibility and precision in liquid handling operations.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering mounting system utilizing a locking mechanism with a groove and notched rail, allowing for adjustable attachment and independent vertical movement of modules, enabling quick adjustment and secure locking of devices on a manipulator base plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular devices are mounted on liquid handling workstations, then flexibility and precision in liquid handling operations are improved, but the complexity of mounting and adjusting these devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: a base plate with multiple mounting locations, individual mounting rails that can be independently positioned, and separate locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and mounted, simplifying the overall mounting process while maintaining flexibility for different device configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate incorporates multiple mounting locations and the mounting rails are designed with universal compatibility to work with various modular devices (pipette modules, liquid handling devices). The standardized interface allows the same mounting system to accommodate different device types and sizes, reducing the need for custom mounting solutions for each device
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular devices are mounted on liquid handling workstations, then flexibility and precision in liquid handling operations are improved, but the time required for mounting and adjusting these devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting rails are pre-positioned on the base plate at standardized locations, and the locking mechanisms are pre-configured to engage with the rails. This preliminary arrangement of components eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustments during device mounting, allowing rapid attachment while maintaining precise positioning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing quick transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic capability enables rapid mounting and adjustment of modular devices without requiring time-consuming fastening operations, while still providing secure fixation when locked
3Reliability
If devices are securely locked on the base plate, then reliability of the mounting is improved, but the ease of adjustment and removal of devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism operates in periodic cycles between locked and unlocked states, controlled by a simple actuating motion. This periodic action allows the system to maintain secure mounting during operation while enabling quick release when adjustment is needed, achieving both reliability and ease of adjustment through rhythmic engagement and disengagement
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for mounting a device on a manipulator, wherein a second unit is adjustably attached to a first unit so that it is movable in at least one direction with respect to the base plate and wherein the first unit has at least a locked position and an open position, the mounting rail being movable with respect to the first unit when the first unit is in the open position and wherein the mounting rail is fixed with respect to the first unit when the first unit is in the closed position.