Automated Slide Stainer Reagent Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual removal and filtration of staining reagents in slide stainers are laborious, time-consuming, and pose a splash hazard, necessitating an automated solution to enhance productivity and safety in laboratory settings.
Innovation Solution
An automated slide stainer device equipped with a reagent filtering system that uses Millipore filters in plastic tubing, where a pump automatically flows out and reintroduces filtered reagents into the buckets, eliminating the need for manual handling and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual removal and filtration of staining reagents is performed, then reagent handling can be completed, but labor time increases and splash hazards occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the pump automatically removes used reagent from the staining bucket, filters it through the Millipore filter, and returns the filtered reagent to the same bucket without requiring manual intervention. The control system manages the entire process autonomously based on sensor input, making the system serve itself rather than requiring operator action for each step.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of pouring and filtering reagents is replaced by an automated electromechanical system. The pump provides automated fluid transfer, the Millipore filter provides automated filtration, and the control system with sensors provides automated process management, replacing the need for manual mechanical handling throughout the reagent removal and filtration process.
2Productivity
If automated pump system is added for reagent circulation, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump serves multiple functions within the system: it removes used reagent from the staining bucket, circulates the reagent through the filter, and returns the filtered reagent to the bucket. The control system also performs multiple functions by managing pump operation, monitoring sensor data, and coordinating the filtration process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The reagent removal, filtration, and return functions are merged into a single automated circulation loop. The Millipore filter is integrated directly into the reagent path, combining filtration with the circulation process. The control system merges monitoring and control functions into one integrated unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation capabilities.
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 automated system increases laboratory productivity by automating the filtration process, saving time and reducing the risk of splash hazards associated with manual reagent handling, while maintaining reagent integrity and cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
The plastic tubing includes Millipore filters for filtering the reagent passing therethrough
Implementation Method 2
The outflow and inflow of the reagent is facilitated by a pump which is activated by the controlling system
Data Source
AI summary
An automated slide stainer system equipped with an innovative automated reagent filtering system is disclosed. The system comprises a housing accommodating distinct processing stations (buckets) for diverse staining reagents. A controlling system with touch buttons and a display device manages the staining process. Each station or bucket features a plastic tubing system with first and second openings, enabling automated reagent outflow, filtration using Millipore filters, and reintroduction of filtered reagent. The controlling system initiates outflow and reintroduction of the reagent using a mechanical device such as a pump wherein the reagent flows through a plastic tubing and filtered using filters disposed inside the tubing.