Three-Axis Pipetting Head Handling for Error-Resistant Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipetting devices require manual insertion of pipetting heads, which can lead to incorrect insertion, contamination risks, and potential damage, complicating the pipetting process and increasing laboratory inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A pipetting device with a movable receiving device that can automatically pick up and dispense pipetting heads through a three-axis movement system, utilizing hook elements and locking mechanisms for secure and efficient attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual insertion of pipetting head is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and ease of operation deteriorate due to risk of incorrect insertion and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device automatically performs the insertion function by moving itself relative to the storage surface to pick up the pipetting head, eliminating the need for manual insertion while ensuring proper alignment and connection through self-positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving device is designed to be movable relative to the storage surface in three coordinate axes, allowing dynamic adjustment and precise positioning to reliably connect with the pipetting head without requiring complex fixed alignment structures
2Ease of operation
If manual insertion of pipetting head is used, then ease of operation is reduced, but device complexity is minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically handles the pipetting head insertion process through the movable receiving device, eliminating the need for technician intervention while the simple structural design keeps the receiving device easy to understand and operate
3Ease of operation
If door is made removable for easy insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable receiving device automatically accesses and secures the pipetting head without requiring door removal, maintaining a closed protective environment that prevents contamination while providing easy access through automated motion
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving device uses controlled movement along three axes to access the pipetting head within the enclosed space, eliminating the need for removable doors while maintaining protection against contamination through precise automated positioning
4Reliability
If automatic receiving device with three-axis movement is implemented, then reliability and ease of operation improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable receiving device serves multiple functions including positioning, connecting, and securing the pipetting head through its three-axis movement capability, reducing the need for separate specialized components and simplifying the overall system architecture
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
Shown is a pipetting device 11 comprising a platform with a support surface 13, a support device 21, and a main unit 25 arranged on the support device. The support surface 13 is provided for holding laboratory containers. The main unit 25 is arranged above the support surface 13 and has an opening on the lower side with a receiving device 31 for receiving a pipetting head 20. The pipetting device 11 is characterized in that the receiving device 31 is movable relative to the support surface 13 in the three coordinate axes directions (X, Y, and Z).