Automatic Analyzer Dilution Ratio Stability via Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analyzers face challenges in maintaining a stable dilution ratio over time due to aging of pumps and fluid lines, leading to labor-intensive maintenance and operational interruptions.
Innovation Solution
The automatic analyzer incorporates a dosing device with multiple fluid flow paths and pumps, along with a valve unit controlled by an electronic measuring and control system, allowing for selective blocking and unblocking of fluid paths to maintain a stable dilution ratio, independent of pump or line aging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If pumps and fluid lines are used for transporting sample fluid and dilution medium, then automated fluid transport is achieved, but pump and line aging causes unstable dilution ratio over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual dilution ratio is continuously monitored and compared with the target dilution ratio. The control system automatically adjusts pump operating parameters (such as pump speed or dosing volume) based on this feedback to compensate for aging effects. This closed-loop control ensures that the dilution ratio remains stable over time despite pump and line degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the pumps dynamically to compensate for aging. Instead of using fixed pump speeds or dosing volumes, the system adjusts these parameters based on actual performance measurements. This allows the system to maintain accurate dilution ratios even as the physical condition of pumps and fluid lines deteriorates over time.
2Ease of operation
If pump feed rates are controlled to set dilution ratio, then automated dilution is achieved, but aging of pumps and hose lines changes actual feed rate and dilution ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the actual dilution ratio achieved and feeds this information back to the control system. The control system then adjusts the pump feed rates to compensate for deviations caused by aging. This ensures that the dilution ratio accuracy is maintained over time despite changes in pump and hose line characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically modifying pump operating parameters based on measured performance. Instead of requiring manual calibration or intervention when pumps age, the system self-corrects by adjusting feed rates to maintain the desired dilution ratio, thereby maintaining precision without external intervention.
3Reliability
If routine adjustment and early exchange of fluid lines and pumps are performed, then dilution ratio stability is maintained, but labor-intensive maintenance and operational interruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism enables continuous monitoring and automatic adjustment of the dilution ratio, eliminating the need for routine manual adjustments and early replacement of pumps and fluid lines. The system maintains stability through real-time control rather than preventive maintenance intervals, thereby avoiding operational interruptions and reducing maintenance labor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical preventive maintenance (routine adjustment and exchange of physical components) with an electronic control system that automatically compensates for aging effects. This substitution of mechanical maintenance with electronic control reduces maintenance frequency and operational interruptions while maintaining dilution ratio stability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an automatic analyzer for determining a parameter of a sample fluid, including a dosing device comprising at least one dosing chamber, a first fluid flow path connecting a sample receiving vessel to the dosing chamber via a first pump, a tank containing a dilution medium, a second fluid flow path connecting the tank to the dosing chamber via a second pump, a measuring cell in communication with the dosing chamber via a third fluid flow path via a third pump, and a measuring and control system connected to and configured to control the pumps, wherein the first, second, and third fluid flow paths can selectively be blocked or unblocked by at least one valve unit and the measuring and control system is configured to control the at least one valve unit to block or unblock the first, second, and third flow paths.