Automated Analyzer Loading Sequence Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic analysis devices face reduced throughput due to inefficient loading of liquid containers, as different incubation times and reagent usage rates lead to empty positions being filled based on numerical order, resulting in longer transport distances and increased analysis times.
Innovation Solution
The method involves selecting the order of empty receiving positions to minimize movement of the receiving device or transport device, ensuring that the closest empty position is always chosen for loading, whether through rotational or linear movement, to reduce transport distances and optimize the placement of liquid containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If empty receiving positions are filled based on numerical order, then the loading process is simple and systematic, but the transport distance increases and analysis time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the receiving device movable rather than stationary. The device can change its position dynamically to bring empty receiving positions closer to the loading position, optimizing transport distance based on which positions are currently empty. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its configuration rather than following a fixed numerical loading sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit preliminarily identifies which receiving positions are empty before the loading process begins. By knowing in advance which positions need to be filled, the system can plan the optimal movement sequence to minimize transport distance, rather than simply loading positions in numerical order.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receiving device is moved frequently to access different receiving positions, then loading flexibility increases, but mechanical wear and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by moving the receiving device only partially or only when necessary, rather than continuously repositioning it. The control unit determines the minimal necessary movement to access empty positions, reducing unnecessary mechanical motion. This resolves the contradiction by providing loading flexibility only when needed while minimizing energy consumption from excessive movement.
3Device complexity
If receiving positions are arranged in a fixed numerical sequence, then the loading protocol is straightforward, but transport distance to reach empty positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the receiving device dynamically reconfigurable in position, allowing it to move to different locations along its transport path. This dynamic capability enables the system to access empty receiving positions with minimal transport distance, regardless of their numerical sequence position. The loading protocol remains straightforward as the control unit automatically manages the optimization.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to an optimized method for successively loading a receiving device (5) with a plurality of liquid containers in an automated analyzer. An automated analyzer (1) comprises a movable receiving device (5) on which a plurality of receiving positions (4) for each liquid container are arranged, a movable transport device for transporting each liquid container, and a control device, wherein the control device is configured to control a method for successively loading the receiving positions (4) arranged on the movable receiving device (5) with liquid containers in the following steps: • Positioning an empty receiving position (4) in a predetermined loading position (30) by repeatedly moving the receiving device (5);• Inserting each liquid container into an empty receiving position (4) located in the assembly position (30) by means of the movable transport device; characterized in that the sequence in which the empty receiving positions (4) are positioned in the assembly position (30) is selected such that the movement of the receiving device (5) for positioning an empty receiving position (4) in the assembly position (30) is always minimal.