Analytical Device Fluid Coupling with Self-Aligning Cassette
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analytical devices for determining measured variables in liquid samples require complex and precise guiding means for fluid coupling connections, which are prone to damage during transport and maintenance, and lack a 'plug and play' functionality for easy operation.
Innovation Solution
An analytical device with a base module and a replaceable cassette featuring a fluid coupling apparatus with integrated primary and secondary components, allowing for automatic connection without the need for precise alignment, and a drive mechanism for forming a fluid-tight connection between the components, enabling easy assembly and preventing damage during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex and precise guiding means are used for fluid coupling connections, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and susceptibility to damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid coupling apparatus is divided into a primary component integrated with the cassette and a secondary component integrated with the base module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall connection structure by eliminating the need for complex external guiding means.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid coupling apparatus merges the connection functionality directly into the cassette and base module structures. The primary component is formed as an integral part of the cassette housing, and the secondary component is formed as an integral part of the base module, eliminating separate guiding mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for fluid coupling connections, then connection accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The primary and secondary components are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide self-alignment during the connection process. The irregular shapes and mating features guide the components into proper alignment automatically, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment while maintaining high connection accuracy.
3Strength
If fluid coupling connections are made robust, then damage resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing elements are pre-positioned within the primary and secondary components during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the components connect, the sealing elements are already in the correct position to create an immediate fluid-tight seal, protecting against leakage without requiring complex sealing mechanisms.
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
The solution simplifies the connection process, reduces the risk of damage, and enables automated operation with a 'plug and play' functionality, ensuring reliable and efficient fluid handling in the analytical device.
Implementation Method 1
a drive, which is embodied to bring about a movement of the secondary component and the primary component relative to one another for providing a connection
Data Source
AI summary
An analytical device for automated determining of a measured variable of a liquid sample, includes: a base module; a replaceable cassette connectable with the base module and having at least one liquid container connectable via a fluid line with a measuring cell and containing a reagent to be added to the liquid sample for forming a measured liquid; and a measuring transducer for registering measured values correlated with the measured variable for the measured liquid accommodated in the measuring cell. The cassette has, associated with the at least one liquid container, a fluid coupling apparatus having a primary component and a secondary component and serving for producing a connection of the fluid line with the liquid container.