Tianhe ZFY Intelligent Liquid Dispenser

Overview

The Tianhe ZFY Intelligent Liquid Dispenser is an automated, Android-based liquid handling platform engineered for precise, reproducible reagent dispensing and multi-step dilution workflows in regulated laboratory environments. It operates on a positive-displacement principle using independent peristaltic or syringe-driven fluid paths—configurable per channel—to ensure volumetric accuracy across wide dynamic ranges without reliance on air displacement or gravimetric feedback. Designed for primary sample preparation in analytical, quality control, and research laboratories, the ZFY eliminates manual pipetting variability while maintaining full traceability of dispense parameters, volume logs, and system diagnostics. Its architecture supports both single-point and multi-well plate dispensing, direct-from-bottle aspiration, and programmable gradient dilution sequences—making it suitable for applications ranging from ELISA assay setup to standard curve generation and bulk reagent aliquoting.

Key Features

• Modular 1–4-channel configuration with independently controlled fluid paths, minimizing cross-contamination risk between samples or reagents.
• High-precision dispensing across a broad volume range: 10 µL to 9999 mL per dispense event, with volume-dependent repeatability (≤2% CV at 10–200 µL; ≤1% CV at 100 µL–2 mL; ≤0.1% CV ≥10 mL) and accuracy aligned to ISO 8655-6 performance benchmarks.
• Chemically resistant fluidic pathway constructed from 316L stainless steel, PTFE, PVDF, and zirconia ceramic components—validated for compatibility with aggressive organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, chloroform), strong acids (e.g., HCl, HNO₃), and alkaline solutions.
• Integrated high-resolution XYZ robotic arm with repeatable positioning (< ±0.1 mm) enabling accurate targeting of individual wells in 96-, 384-, or custom-format plates, tubes, or flasks.
• Android-based touchscreen interface (OS version 8.0 or higher) with intuitive workflow builder, real-time status monitoring, and on-device parameter logging—no external PC required for routine operation.
• Self-diagnostic firmware with automatic power-on system check, pressure/flow anomaly detection, and audible/visual alarm escalation for out-of-spec conditions.
• Direct bottle aspiration capability—eliminates intermediate transfer steps—and support for multiple container types (e.g., HDPE, glass, fluorinated bottles) via adjustable gripper and height-sensing probe.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZFY accommodates aqueous buffers, organic solvents, viscous media (up to 500 cP), and suspensions containing particles <50 µm in diameter. Its wetted materials comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards and exhibit no measurable leachables under ICH Q5A stress conditions. While not pre-certified to FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the system supports audit-trail-enabling configurations—including timestamped user login, parameter change logs, and exportable CSV reports—facilitating alignment with GLP and GMP documentation requirements. All mechanical and electronic subsystems meet IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment.

Software & Data Management

The embedded Android OS hosts a proprietary dispensing application supporting protocol creation via drag-and-drop step sequencing, conditional logic (e.g., “if volume > 1 mL, switch to low-speed mode”), and batch execution with pause/resume functionality. Data is stored locally in encrypted SQLite databases and exportable via USB or network share in CSV or PDF formats. Optional cloud synchronization (via TLS 1.2) enables remote protocol deployment and centralized instrument fleet management. Software updates are delivered over-the-air (OTA) with SHA-256 signature verification to ensure integrity.

Applications

• Pre-analytical sample dilution for HPLC, GC, and ICP-MS sample introduction systems.
• Automated buffer and standard solution preparation in QC labs adhering to ASTM E2656 or ISO/IEC 17025 protocols.
• High-throughput assay plate setup in pharmaceutical development (e.g., dose-response studies, cytotoxicity screening).
• Environmental testing labs performing EPA Method-compliant dilutions of wastewater or soil extract supernatants.
• Educational laboratories requiring robust, low-maintenance platforms for teaching quantitative liquid handling principles.

FAQ

Does the ZFY support integration with LIMS or third-party lab automation systems?
Yes—via configurable RS-232, USB CDC, or Ethernet TCP/IP interfaces using ASCII command protocols. Custom API wrappers (Python/Node.js) are available upon request.
Can the system be validated for use in regulated environments?
The ZFY provides documented IQ/OQ templates, calibration certificate traceability to NIST standards, and raw data export functionality to support internal PQ validation per ISO/IEC 17025 or FDA guidance.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
PTFE tubing replacement every 6 months under continuous use; annual verification of dispensing accuracy using certified reference volumes; quarterly cleaning of probe tips and fluid path sensors.
Is remote troubleshooting supported?
Yes—the Android OS enables secure VNC-based remote desktop access when enabled by administrator credentials and configured on a private network.
How is software version control managed across multiple instruments?
Firmware and application versions are tracked in the device’s system info panel; OTA updates can be staged and rolled out incrementally using role-based access controls within the enterprise management portal.