Universal C-Clamp Sealing System for Multi-Well Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secure clamping systems for multi-well plates and vial arrays are cumbersome, non-reusable, specific to particular vessel types, and do not accommodate vessels with bottom drain ports, leading to potential spillage, contamination, and increased costs due to complexity and lack of versatility.
Innovation Solution
A universal secure clamping system comprising a base plate, top plate, and adjustable C-clamp style strip or brackets that can accommodate various vessel dimensions, allowing for easy application and removal, and featuring drainage or injection ports for flexible use without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heat-sealable film is used to seal multi-well plates, then gas and liquid tight seal is achieved, but the sealing process is cumbersome and may warp the plate affecting performance in automated robotic equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal sealing process with a mechanical clamping system using C-clamps and sealing bars that apply direct pressure to create a seal, eliminating the need for heat application and associated complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the sealing function from the plate structure itself by using separate, removable sealing bars and C-clamps that can be applied independently, avoiding warping issues and allowing for easier operation
2Reliability
If heat-sealable film is used to seal multi-well plates, then gas and liquid tight seal is achieved, but access to each well requires piercing or peeling the film causing re-application
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into separate components (sealing bars and C-clamps) that can be independently applied and removed, allowing the seal to be opened and re-closed multiple times without compromising integrity or requiring re-application
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical clamping system provides dynamic sealing that can be easily opened and closed through the mechanical action of the C-clamps, enabling repeated access to wells while maintaining seal integrity
3Reliability
If multi-part clamping systems are used for sealing, then secure sealing is achieved, but the equipment becomes difficult to utilize increasing potential for spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The C-clamp design serves multiple functions: it provides the clamping force, positions the sealing bar, and secures the seal in a single integrated component, simplifying operation while maintaining sealing security
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the clamping mechanism and sealing function into a unified system where the C-clamp holds both the sealing bar and creates the necessary pressure, reducing the number of separate parts and simplifying operation
4Reliability
If clamping systems are made of more than two parts, then secure sealing is achieved, but parts may get misplaced or confused with other systems
Solution Approach 1:
The C-clamp is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions (clamping, positioning, sealing) and can be used across different vessel types, reducing the need for multiple specialized parts and minimizing misplacement issues
5Reliability
If sealing clamps are specific to a particular vessel type and dimension, then secure sealing for that vessel is achieved, but the system cannot be used for different vessel types resulting in costly expenses
Solution Approach 1:
The C-clamp and sealing bar design is universally applicable to various vessel types and dimensions through adjustable positioning and standardized interfaces, allowing a single system to securely seal different formats without requiring vessel-specific clamps
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic, adjustable elements that can be configured for different vessel sizes and types, providing secure sealing across multiple formats while maintaining versatility
6Device complexity
If sealing systems do not allow for vessels with bottom drain ports, then simple sealing is achieved, but the vessel cannot be drained without disassembling the sealing system
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented to include separate access points or removable components that allow drainage operations through the bottom ports without requiring complete disassembly of the sealing system
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates intermediary access mechanisms that facilitate drainage through bottom ports while maintaining the overall sealing integrity, allowing fluid removal without compromising the seal
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 system provides a cost-effective, versatile, and easy-to-use solution for securing sealing mats on multiple vessel types, including those with bottom drain ports, reducing the risk of spillage and contamination while allowing for flexible use and reconfiguration.
Implementation Method 1
a C-clamp style strip made of metal that is sufficiently rigid to keep its shape, yet have enough spring action to allow for easy application and removal
Implementation Method 2
a C-clamp style strip made of metal that is sufficiently rigid to keep its shape, yet have enough spring action to allow for easy application and removal
Data Source
AI summary
A secure clamping system for sealing and storing multiple vessels such as commercially available vial arrays, multi-well plates, and deep well blocks, as typically used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, or biological fields including top and bottom plates, with or without drainage or injection ports, secured to the array or well by a C-shaped clamping member that may be fixed or adjustable, or by top and bottom clamping plates having opposite side height adjustable bracket members with cooperating locking members, or by top and bottom clamping plates having eccentrically cammed grasping arms, all for retaining the plates in a secure, leak-proof fit over the top and bottom of the array, well or block.