Abstract: A plate lid for covering a multi-well plate for use in a high throughput screening (HTS) process. The lid includes a plate section dimensioned to cover the plate, a frame block positioned on the underside perimeter of the plate section to form a recessed center, a skirt section protruding from each edge of the frame block; and a gasket layer positioned on the frame block for sealing the peripheral surface of the multi-well plate.

Abstract: A system for a droplet detection device to monitor the dispensing operation in an ultra high throughput (uHTS) system. The system includes a microtitre plate with a defined number of wells and well walls, a dispenser for dispensing fluids into the wells, an illuminating sensor to extract image features from the wells and well walls, and a controller for analyzing the extracted image features to determine the presence or absence of the dispensing fluid on the wells and well walls.

Abstract: The invention relates to a state-variable feedback control system for monitoring and optimally controlling the operation of a microfluidic aspirate dispense-system. A steady state operating pressure is determined from the fluid, flow and/or operational characteristics of the system. Measurements from one or more pressure sensors are part of the control strategy to derive information for active feedback control and/or to achieve the desired operating pressure. Advantageously, the control system adds to the versatility of the aspirate-dispense system, for example, by permitting rapid dispensing of drops of different size. The control system also desirably facilitates efficient, repeatable and accurate performance and reduces wastage of valuable reagents or fluid.

Abstract: The invention relates to a state-variable feedback control system for monitoring and optimally controlling the operation of a microfluidic aspirate dispense-system. A steady state operating pressure is determined from the fluid, flow and/or operational characteristics of the system. Measurements from one or more pressure sensors are part of the control strategy to derive information for active feedback control and/or to achieve the desired operating pressure. Advantageously, the control system adds to the versatility of the aspirate-dispense system, for example, by permitting rapid dispensing of drops of different size. The control system also desirably facilitates efficient, repeatable and accurate performance and reduces wastage of valuable reagents or fluid.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for digitally deflecting a line-of-sight (LOS) axis of an energy beam, or an optical LOS axis of an optical train, in each of two mutually orthogonal directions of deflective sweep. The apparatus utilizes a series of mirrors, each of which is independently pivotable about two orthogonally related linear pivot axes. Each of the mirrors doubles the deflection movement of the preceding mirror so that binary values of deflection of the LOS are generated by selective control of the mirrors of the series. Positioning of each mirror is provided by a "four position-two orthogonal axis actuator" which forcibly drives the mirror between any one to any other of four positions consisting of combinations of two pivotal deflection positions about each of two mutually orthogonal linear pivot axes.