Analysis Device Ultraviolet Source Positioning for Selective Irradiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ultraviolet irradiation methods in analysis devices struggle to selectively irradiate predetermined ranges while avoiding certain portions, requiring cumbersome countermeasures like removing light sources or using covers, which are not easily implementable.

Innovation Solution

An analysis device equipped with a movable ultraviolet source and conveyance mechanisms in x, y, and z directions, allowing precise control over ultraviolet light emission to specific areas while avoiding undesired regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If ultraviolet irradiation part surrounds the placement table to enable uniform ultraviolet irradiation, then irradiation uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple light sources and control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveirradiation uniformityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the ultraviolet irradiation function into multiple independent light sources arranged around the placement table. Each light source can be independently controlled to achieve uniform overall irradiation while avoiding over-irradiation of specific sensitive areas. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity at the component level while achieving complexity only where necessary for the overall function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If light sources are removed or covers are provided to avoid ultraviolet irradiation of certain portions, then selectivity of irradiation is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome implementation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselectivity of irradiationVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs movable shields or adjustable light source positions that can be dynamically controlled to redirect or block ultraviolet light from reaching sensitive areas. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the system to adapt irradiation patterns without requiring physical modification or removal of components, maintaining ease of operation while achieving selective irradiation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple actuators are added to control ultraviolet source movement in x, y, and z directions, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple actuator functions into an integrated positioning system where a single coordinated mechanism controls movement in x, y, and z directions. This merging of functions reduces the total number of independent actuators required while maintaining full three-dimensional positioning capability, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving positioning precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables targeted ultraviolet light application to predetermined ranges, preventing irradiation of sensitive materials and simplifying device configuration by reducing the need for additional actuators, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Implementation Method 1

an ultraviolet source (14) that emits ultraviolet light (15) to a target position on the stage (1)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltraviolet light emission: Light

Data Source

PatentEP4641206A1Analysis device and ultraviolet irradiation unit
Publication Date: 2025.10.29 HITACHI HIGH TECH CORP
  • EP4641206A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4641206A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4641206A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention comprises a detection part 6 that performs analysis of a sample, a sample installation part 2 that performs necessary processing in analysis by the detection part 6, a disposal box 3, a reaction part 5, an unused consumables area 7, an operating part 8, a reagent storage 9, an extraction part 10, and a stage 1 that constitutes a portion of a housing of an analysis device 30, and the present invention is provided with an ultraviolet source 14 that radiates ultraviolet light to a target position on the stage 1, and an x-axis-direction actuator 16, a y-axis-direction actuator 17, and a z-axis-direction actuator 18 that move the ultraviolet source 14 in an x-direction as a first direction of the stage 1, a y-direction at a right angle to the x-direction, and a z-direction as the vertical direction, respectively. An analysis device and ultraviolet irradiation unit in which it is possible to radiate ultraviolet light to only a prescribed range are thereby provided.