Modular Multi-Channel Syringe Pump for Synchronized Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel syringe pumps face challenges in precisely dispensing liquids due to thermal expansion and manufacturing tolerance variations among independently controlled syringes, leading to inconsistent fluid flow and synchronization issues.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves mounting multiple syringe banks symmetrically within a common chassis to match thermal effects and manufacturing tolerances, allowing for independent yet synchronized control of each channel, which reduces physical size and enhances precision by using a shared controller and linear encoders for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independently controlled syringe pumps are used to dispense multiple liquids, then each channel can be independently controlled, but thermal expansion and manufacturing tolerance variations cause relative displacements to vary, leading to synchronization issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple syringe pump channels into a single integrated assembly with common mounting structures and shared thermal environment. The syringes are mounted on a common plate or structure within the same chassis, causing them to experience identical thermal expansion effects and matched manufacturing tolerances, thereby achieving both independent control and consistent relative displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates equipotential conditions for thermal effects by mounting all syringe channels in the same chassis structure. This ensures that all channels experience identical thermal expansion and contraction, eliminating differential thermal effects that would otherwise cause synchronization issues between independently controlled channels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple syringe pumps are mounted in a box-like structure or adjacent to one another, then independent control is achieved, but the physical size of the pump increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple syringe channels into a compact integrated assembly mounted on a common plate within a single chassis. This merging approach allows multiple channels to share common structural elements and mounting structures, significantly reducing the overall physical size compared to separate or adjacently mounted pump units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where multiple syringe channels are integrated within a single chassis structure. The syringes are mounted on a common plate that is itself mounted within the chassis, creating a compact nested configuration that minimizes the external dimensions while accommodating multiple independent channels.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular multi-channel syringe pump assembly includes a chassis in which are mounted two or more parallel syringe banks. Each syringe bank includes a syringe for retaining a fluid in a chamber with a syringe plunger for drawing fluid into or forcing fluid out of the chamber. A syringe drive actuator includes a syringe drive motor and a mechanical linkage for activating the syringe. At least one position sensor detects syringe position and generates a position signal corresponding to the syringe position. A controller receives the position signal for each syringe bank and generates control signals for operation of the two or more syringe banks.