Test Tube Longitudinal Member for Automated Pipetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test tubes with randomly positioned test sticks pose a challenge for automatic liquid handling systems, as the unpredictable location of test sticks can lead to harmful contact with pipettes, necessitating manual transfer of buffer solutions, which is time-consuming and hazardous.
Innovation Solution
A test tube design featuring an annular body with a longitudinal member that securely positions a test stick, allowing for precise placement and preventing contact with pipettes, thereby enabling direct insertion into automatic liquid handling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If test sticks are freely positioned in test tubes, then ease of insertion is improved, but reliability of automated handling deteriorates due to random positioning causing pipette contact
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal member is pre-positioned within the test tube during manufacturing, creating a predetermined receiving space for the test stick. This preliminary positioning action ensures that when test sticks are inserted, they automatically settle into a known, safe position that prevents contact with automated pipettes, thus maintaining both ease of insertion and reliability of automated handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal member acts as an intermediary structure between the test tube wall and the test stick. It creates a physical guide and positioning mechanism that mediates the interaction between the freely inserted test stick and the automated handling system, ensuring the test stick assumes a safe position without requiring precise manual placement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual transfer of buffer solution is performed, then adaptability to existing test tubes is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming operations
Solution Approach 1:
The test tube design incorporates a predetermined receiving space for test sticks during the manufacturing stage. This preliminary structural preparation enables direct compatibility with automated liquid handling systems, eliminating the need for manual buffer solution transfer and significantly improving productivity while maintaining adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If manual transfer of buffer solution is performed, then flexibility in handling is maintained, but safety deteriorates due to exposure to bio-hazard materials
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal member within the test tube provides self-positioning functionality for the test stick, creating a predetermined safe receiving space. This self-service structural feature enables direct automated handling without manual intervention, eliminating operator exposure to bio-hazard materials while maintaining handling flexibility through the standardized design.
Data Source
AI summary
A test tube including an annular body having an open proximal end and a closed distal end, and an longitudinal member in a distal portion of an interior of the annular body, the longitudinal member is substantially parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the annular body and is connected to an internal surface of the distal portion of the annular body.