Three-Axis Pipetting Head Pickup for Automated Lab Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipetting devices require manual insertion of pipetting heads, which can lead to incorrect insertion, damage, and increased laboratory work disruption, and do not facilitate automatic receiving and dispensing of pipetting heads.
Innovation Solution
A pipetting device with a movable receiving device capable of automatic pipetting head reception and dispensing, utilizing a platform with a storage surface and a main unit that moves in three coordinate axes to securely engage and disengage pipetting heads through form-locking connections formed by hook elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual insertion of pipetting head is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of incorrect insertion and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device automatically performs the insertion of the pipetting head without human intervention. The system uses a movable receiving device with hook elements that autonomously engage with the pipetting head, positioning and securing it correctly through automated movement in X, Y, and Z directions, eliminating the need for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical insertion process with an automated mechanical system. The receiving device uses controlled mechanical movement along three coordinate axes to position and secure the pipetting head, substituting human hand operations with programmable mechanical actuation driven by motors or actuators.
2Productivity
If manual insertion of pipetting head is used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to increased laboratory work disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device autonomously handles the entire insertion process, including approaching the pipetting head, engaging it with hook elements, and positioning it securely. This self-service capability eliminates the need for laboratory technicians to manually insert pipetting heads, thereby reducing work disruption and improving overall workflow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the receiving device in advance by positioning it in the correct location and orienting the hook elements for engagement. The receiving device moves to the predetermined position below the pipetting head before initiation of the insertion process, ensuring that all preliminary actions are completed to enable seamless automated reception.
3Reliability
If movable receiving device with three-axis movement is used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device is designed with dynamic capabilities, allowing it to move freely in three coordinate directions (X, Y, and Z axes). This dynamic structure enables the receiving device to adapt its position and orientation to securely engage with the pipetting head, improving reception reliability through flexible, multi-directional movement rather than fixed positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving device is divided into functional segments: the main body that moves in three dimensions, the hook elements that engage with the pipetting head, and the support structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, managing overall system complexity while achieving reliable automated reception through coordinated movement of discrete functional parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipetting device which has a platform with a storage surface, a support device and a main unit arranged on the support device. The storage surface is intended for receiving laboratory containers. The main unit is arranged above the storage surface and has an opening at the bottom with a receiving device for receiving a pipetting head. The pipetting device is wherein the receiving device is movable relative to the storage surface in the three coordinate axis directions (X, Y, and Z).