Slidable Magnet Rack for Automated Magnetic Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional biomedical analysis methods using functionalized microparticles are prone to human error, are cumbersome, and require multiple operational steps and equipment, leading to inefficiencies in sample handling and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A rack system configured for compatibility with automated or manual pipettors, incorporating slidable magnets that can be actuated by the pipettor, allowing for parallel operation and multistep magnetic-based sample preparation at a single station, enhancing sample purity and throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional methods with multiple equipment pieces are used, then separation function is achieved, but device complexity and operational steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate equipment functions (magnet placement, sample handling, pipetting) into a single integrated rack system. The rack integrates magnet actuators that can be positioned adjacent to specific vials, combining magnetic separation and liquid handling capabilities in one device, thereby reducing the number of equipment pieces and operational steps while maintaining separation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack system is designed to perform multiple functions: it holds vials, positions magnets adjacent to vials for magnetic separation, and integrates with automated pipettors for liquid handling. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate equipment for each operation, reducing complexity while achieving reliable automated sample preparation.
2Productivity
If multiple operational steps are used, then sample preparation is completed, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is pre-configured with multiple vial positions and magnet actuators before sample preparation begins. All necessary components are in place and ready for parallel operation, eliminating setup time during the actual sample processing. The system can immediately begin multiple separations simultaneously once samples are loaded.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous automated operation where the pipettor and magnet actuators work in coordinated sequence without manual intervention between steps. The automated pipettor can continuously transfer liquids between vials while magnets simultaneously perform separations, maintaining continuous useful action and maximizing throughput.
3Ease of operation
If manual sample handling is used, then flexibility is maintained, but contamination risk and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs sample preparation autonomously without requiring manual handling. The automated pipettor independently transfers liquids, and the magnet actuators independently position magnets for separation. The system serves itself by completing the entire workflow automatically, eliminating human contact with samples and thus preventing contamination while maintaining ease of operation.
4Productivity
If parallel operation capability is added, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is segmented into multiple independent vial positions, each with its own magnet actuator. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously. Each position can be independently controlled, enabling parallel operation while keeping the overall system manageable through modular design. The segmentation into discrete, identical units simplifies the complexity by using repeated standard components.
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 enables high-throughput, automated magnetic separation with reduced manual handling and contamination risks, improving the efficiency and quality of sample preparation by integrating all necessary vials and reagents in a single station.
Implementation Method 1
at least one slidable magnet disposed for contact or near contact with a side wall of a vial
Implementation Method 2
magnetic based sample preparation wherein a population of magnetic beads functionally adhered to non-target moieties
Implementation Method 3
the pipettor including a vertical and horizontal actuator configured to translate at least one pipettor head to the rack positions
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for handling a variety of sample and preparatory fluids in a rack specifically configured for compatibility with predetermined liquid handlers such as automated pipettors or multi-channel manual pipettors and set up for magnetic based sample preparation. The rack can hold all of the necessary sample and reagent vials, and present them to the pipettor in some embodiments in a way that allows for parallel operation. The rack includes slidable magnets that in some embodiments are actuatable directly by the pipettor, eliminating a layer of complexity. Combined with a suitable pipettor the magnet enabled rack supports a multistep magnetic based sample preparation capability in a high throughput manner at one station that enhances sample purity throughout magnetic separation processes.