Patent ID: 7661289
Filing Date: 2010-02-16
Classification: B01L,G01F,G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for calibrating a droplet dispensing apparatus comprising: a) using acoustic energy to dispense a first plurality of droplets of a liquid from a source container into one or more first target containers, the liquid including a known concentration of an indicator, and with a first liquid level of the liquid in the source container being known before the first plurality of droplets are dispensed; b) determining a second liquid level of the liquid in the source container after the first plurality of droplets are dispensed; c) using acoustic energy to dispense a second plurality of droplets of the liquid from the source container into one or more second target containers; d) measuring an indicator parameter in one or more of the target containers, the indicator parameter being associated with the indicator and giving an indication of a total volume of the droplets collected in each individual target container for which the indicator parameter is measured; e) generating a data set that correlates the indicator parameter for each target container versus the liquid level of the liquid in the source container from which the droplets were dispensed; and f) evaluating the data set for one or more out-of-spec points, the one or more out-of-spec points indicating a liquid level where the volume of the plurality of droplets at that liquid level have a value that is outside of an acceptable range.