Automatic Analyzer Magnetic Separation for Fewer Movable Axes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automatic analyzers do not effectively reduce the number of movable axes, which hinders size reduction and operational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The automatic analyzer incorporates a magnetic separation portion movable in vertical and horizontal directions, along with rotatable and liftable nozzles for solution aspiration and discharge, integrated with a turntable system to minimize the number of axes required for operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple nozzles with multiple movable axes are used to perform aspiration and discharge operations, then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenozzle operation versatilityVSAvoidnumber of movable axes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic separation portion is designed to perform multiple functions: it separates magnetic particles from the reaction solution, positions the separated solution for aspiration, and enables discharge operations. By making the magnetic separation portion itself movable in vertical and horizontal directions, it becomes a multi-functional component that replaces what would traditionally require separate nozzles and multiple actuators, thereby reducing the number of movable axes while maintaining operational versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the magnetic separation function with the solution transfer function into a single integrated system. The magnetic separation portion that normally would be stationary is now made movable, merging the separation operation with the aspiration and discharge operations into one coordinated mechanism, reducing the need for separate nozzle assemblies and their associated movable axes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple nozzles with independent movement control are implemented, then operational precision is improved, but device size and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolution transfer precisionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The movable magnetic separation portion serves as a universal platform that achieves precise solution transfer through its controlled movement in vertical and horizontal directions. This single multi-functional mechanism replaces multiple specialized nozzles with independent movement control, maintaining precision while reducing the overall device size and eliminating redundant components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic separation portion acts as an intermediary mechanism between the reaction container and the aspiration/discharge system. By controlling the position of this intermediary component, the system achieves precise solution transfer without requiring multiple independently controlled nozzles, thereby reducing device complexity and size while maintaining operational precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This configuration reduces the number of movable axes, enhances temperature control efficiency, decreases device size, and lowers costs while improving operational speed and space utilization.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic separation portion which captures magnetic particles in a first container that accommodates a reaction solution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic separation: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4592685A1Automated analysis device
Publication Date: 2025.07.30 HITACHI HIGH TECH CORP
  • EP4592685A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4592685A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4592685A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Provided is an automatic analyzer capable of reducing the number of movable shafts compared to a prior art. An automatic analyzer 1 includes a B/F separation portion 104, a reaction solution aspiration nozzle 106, and a replacement solution discharging nozzle 108. The B/F separation portion 104 is movable in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction. Alternatively, the automatic analyzer 1 includes the B/F separation portion 104, the reaction solution aspiration nozzle 106, the replacement solution discharging nozzle 108, a luminescent measurement portion 134, a measurement flow path introducing nozzle 130, a washing solution storage container 122, and a buffer solution storage container 120. The B/F separation portion 104, the washing solution storage container 122 and a buffer solution storage container 120 are provided on a turn table 102.