Adjustable Storage Rack for Pathology Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and tracking methods for biological samples are inefficient, leading to time consumption, waste generation, risk of sample loss, and space utilization issues due to the use of multiple storage racks for varying bottle sizes and the need for multiple bags, which also cause label smudging and damage.
Innovation Solution
A flexible storage rack system with adjustable tubes for accommodating different bottle sizes and integrated RFID tracking, allowing secure storage, reduced waste, and efficient tracking without manual handling of individual samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple storage racks of different sizes are used to accommodate various bottle sizes, then all bottle sizes can be stored, but space utilization is inefficient and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack is designed with adjustable components that allow a single rack structure to accommodate multiple bottle sizes. The rack includes adjustable arms or positioning mechanisms that can be reconfigured to fit different diameters and heights of bottles, eliminating the need for multiple specialized racks.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage rack incorporates movable or adjustable elements such as telescopic arms, repositionable support structures, or flexible positioning systems that can dynamically adapt to different bottle dimensions. This dynamic adjustability allows the same rack to serve multiple storage functions throughout its operational life.
2Reliability
If foam storage racks are used to grip plastic bottles, then bottles can be secured, but labels are smudged and peeled, and infection control requires single-use disposal
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of direct contact between the storage rack and bottle label, an intermediary element is introduced. This could be a non-contact gripping mechanism, a protective barrier layer, or a design that secures the bottle without requiring forceful insertion, thereby preventing label damage while maintaining secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical foam gripping system is replaced with an alternative mechanism that does not require forceful insertion or direct contact. This could be a magnetic holding system, a vacuum grip, or a friction-based non-contact mechanism that secures bottles without damaging labels and can be sanitized between uses.
3Reliability
If multiple sealed bags (first sample bags and second bags) are used for transport, then samples are protected, but time is consumed for packing and unpacking
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate packaging layers (first sample bags and second bags) are extracted or eliminated from the transport system. The invention likely uses a rigid or semi-rigid container that provides sufficient protection without requiring multiple flexible bags, thereby reducing the time needed for packing and unpacking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system is segmented into a permanent protective container and removable access mechanisms. The main container provides continuous protection, while individual sample access points can be opened without unpacking the entire system, reducing the time required for sample retrieval and re-packaging.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2a
AI summary
A storage rack for receiving articles for storage is disclosed. The rack is typically for use in storing and transporting samples used in a pathology laboratory. The rack includes a plurality of weight-bearing surfaces, defined by the junction of a plurality of concentric tubes, for supporting and retaining an article at a predetermined distance from a datum surface. One or more of the weight-bearing portions defines an opening, allowing an article to extend therethrough when not supported on said weight-bearing portion. The maximum size of article that can be received on any weight-bearing portion differs with respect to the distance of weight-bearing portion from the datum surface.