Static-Defeating Sheet for Multipipettor Pipette Tip Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pipette tip ejection and loading failures due to static charge buildup, causing adherence to pipette or nozzle, leading to device shutdown in automated systems.
Innovation Solution
A static-defeating apparatus comprising a sheet with holes configured to retain pipette tips, ensuring proper alignment and engagement with pipette tips, preventing static-induced adhesion and facilitating reliable ejection and loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automatic eject mechanism is used for pipette tips, then ejection should be automated and efficient, but static charge buildup causes pipette tips to adhere to pipette or nozzle, leading to ejection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a static-defeating apparatus that neutralizes static charge buildup on pipette tips before ejection occurs. The apparatus includes a groundable member positioned to contact or approach the pipette tip, and a static-defeating member that transfers charge to ground, preventing static-induced adhesion before it can interfere with the automatic ejection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a static-defeating apparatus as a mediator between the pipette tip and the automatic ejection mechanism. This intermediary device includes conductive members that safely discharge static charge, allowing the automatic ejection mechanism to function reliably without being compromised by static electricity.
2Productivity
If pipette tips are retained in rack, then loading should be efficient, but static forces can knock pipette tips out of position, preventing device from picking up new set of pipette tips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a static-defeating apparatus that neutralizes static charge on pipette tips while they are retained in the rack. This prevents static forces from knocking the tips out of position before the loading process begins, ensuring reliable and efficient loading operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by discharging static charge from pipette tips before they are loaded into the device. The static-defeating apparatus is positioned to contact or approach the pipette tips in the rack, removing static charge in advance, so that the tips remain securely in position during the loading process.
3Ease of operation
If static charge is allowed to build up on pipette tips, then pipette tips can be easily manipulated, but static-induced adhesion becomes strong enough to overcome weight of pipette tip, causing ejection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a static-defeating apparatus that neutralizes static charge on pipette tips before it can build up to levels that cause problematic adhesion. The apparatus includes groundable members and static-defeating members that safely discharge charge, maintaining manageable force levels throughout operation.
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 apparatus reduces static-induced adhesion issues, ensuring consistent pipette tip ejection and loading, thereby minimizing device shutdowns and enhancing operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The edge of each of the holes contacts an exterior surface of a pipette tip in a contact zone on the pipette tip
Implementation Method 2
The diameter or the effective diameter is equal to, or substantially equal to, an outer diameter of the pipette tip exterior surface
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in part herein are static-defeating apparatus for use in multipipettor systems. Multiple pipette tips can be retained by a static-defeating sheet of material. A multipipettor, having multiple pipettes or nozzles, can engage the pipette tips retained by the sheet. After use, the multipipettor can eject the pipette tips, which sometimes are ejected as a single unit due to the pipette tips being retained by the sheet. In certain embodiments, an apparatus includes a snap plate having one or more holes, and a base rack for ease of mounting.