Automatic Analysis Apparatus Vertical Probe Washing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analysis apparatuses face inefficiencies in the washing process of sample probes, leading to increased cycle times due to prolonged horizontal movement, which affects the accuracy of subsequent inspections by causing carryover from residual samples and reagents.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a modified washing unit with a detergent and washing water supply system that allows for simultaneous discharge and suction of fluids, utilizing a partitioned washing basin to separate detergent and washing water operations, enabling efficient washing of both the inner and outer surfaces of the sample probe without horizontal movement, thereby reducing cycle time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sample probe is washed by horizontal movement to a washing basin, then the washing function is achieved, but the cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the washing approach from horizontal movement to vertical operation. The sample probe is positioned vertically within the washing basin, and washing fluids are supplied from above, eliminating the need for horizontal transport while achieving effective washing through vertical fluid flow and suction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the washing function from the horizontal transport mechanism and creates a separate vertical washing zone. The washing basin is positioned independently, and the sample probe performs washing operations in place through coordinated fluid supply and suction, separating the washing function from horizontal movement.
2Reliability
If the sample probe moves horizontally to wash the outer surface, then thorough cleaning is achieved, but the time for detergent discharge increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses vertical fluid flow to clean the outer surface instead of horizontal probe movement. Washing water is supplied from above to rinse the outer surface, and suction is applied simultaneously to accelerate detergent and water discharge, achieving thorough cleaning without extended horizontal transport time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention maintains continuous useful action during washing by simultaneously supplying washing water and applying suction. This coordinated action continuously removes detergent and contaminants from both inner and outer surfaces without interruption, reducing total washing time while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
3Reliability
If detergent is kept inside the probe for extended washing, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but carryover risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies continuous suction during and after detergent application to prevent detergent from remaining in the probe. The suction operation continuously removes detergent, washing water, and contaminants, ensuring minimal residence time of detergent in the probe while maintaining effective cleaning through sustained fluid flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention rushes through the detergent discharge phase by applying strong suction immediately after detergent supply. This rapid discharge minimizes the time detergent remains in the probe, preventing carryover while ensuring thorough cleaning through high-velocity fluid flow that effectively removes contaminants.
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
This solution significantly reduces the time required for probe washing, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of inspections by preventing carryover and minimizing the time the detergent stays inside the probe, while maintaining effective cleaning of both inner and outer surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a suction device connected to the flow path, the suction device causing negative pressure in the flow path when operating
Implementation Method 2
a discharge device connected to the flow path, the discharge device causing pressure in the flow path when operating
Implementation Method 3
supplying washing water to an outer wall of the nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an automatic analysis apparatus includes a nozzle, first and second modifying units, a supply unit and a control unit. The control unit respectively controls the first and second modifying units and the supply unit to perform a first step of producing a first flow path state, a second step of producing a second orifice state and a second flow path state, a third step of producing the first flow path state, and a fourth step of producing a first orifice state. The first flow path state causing a fluid to be discharged from the flow path. The second flow path state causing the fluid to be sucked into the flow path. The first orifice state causing the orifice to be located in the air. The second orifice state causing the orifice to be located in a detergent.