Automated Analyzer Autoloader Mechanism for Reagent Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic analyzers face inefficiencies due to manual reagent bottle replacement and increased complexity, leading to operator burden, measurement delays, and reagent degradation, particularly in miniaturized devices with intricate mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An automatic analyzer with an autoloader mechanism that includes a reagent conveying unit, gripper mechanism, and reagent bottle lid opening mechanism, which allows for automated reagent bottle handling, minimizing operator intervention and reducing the number of components and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual reagent bottle replacement is performed, then operator control over reagent handling is maintained, but operator burden increases and measurement delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through the autoloader mechanism that automatically performs reagent bottle replacement without operator intervention. The device monitors reagent levels and executes replacement operations autonomously, transforming manual labor into automated self-service functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of removing and installing reagent bottles are replaced by an automated mechanical system comprising the autoloader, gripper mechanism, and conveyance unit. This substitution eliminates the need for operator physical intervention while maintaining precise control over the replacement process.
2Productivity
If reagent bottle replacement is performed during measurement, then measurement continuity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by preparing replacement reagent bottles in advance and positioning them in the autoloader before they are needed. This advance preparation enables seamless replacement during measurement operations without requiring complex real-time coordination mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic capabilities through the movable autoloader and gripper mechanism that can adapt their positions and operations based on real-time measurement status. This dynamic flexibility allows replacement operations to be executed at optimal moments without disrupting the measurement flow.
3Volume of moving object
If multiple mechanisms are arranged for miniaturization, then device size is reduced, but provision space increases and component number increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated components: the autoloader combines storage, conveyance, and replacement functions; the gripper mechanism integrates holding and positioning capabilities; the lid opening mechanism is combined with the bottle handling system. This merging reduces the total component count while maintaining miniaturization benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The autoloader mechanism serves multiple purposes: it stores reagent bottles, monitors their levels, performs replacement operations, and coordinates with the measurement system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall device complexity.
4Productivity
If reagent bottle lid is opened for reagent dispensing, then reagent access is enabled, but reagent degradation accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes preliminary incisions in the bottle lids during the replacement process, before the reagent is actually dispensed. This advance preparation enables quick access during measurement while minimizing the duration that the lid remains open, thereby reducing degradation exposure time.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid opening and reagent dispensing process is executed rapidly through the automated mechanism, rushing through the potentially harmful exposure period. The system minimizes the time the reagent is vulnerable to degradation by completing the access and dispensing operation in the shortest possible duration.
Data Source
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AI summary
One actuator (a gripper mechanism and reagent bottle lid opening mechanism drive unit 120) drives a gripper mechanism 106 that holds a reagent bottle 10 and a reagent bottle lid opening mechanism 104 that incises a lid of the reagent bottle 10. The gripper mechanism 106 operates to ascend when the reagent bottle lid opening mechanism 104 operates to descend in order to incise the reagent bottle lid 112, and the reagent bottle lid opening mechanism 104 operates to ascend when the gripper mechanism 106 operates to descend in order to hold the reagent bottle 10. The reagent bottle lid opening mechanism 104 and the gripper mechanism 106 operate without interfering with each other's functions.