Automatic Analyzer Probe Alignment via Capacitance Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic analyzers face challenges in determining the proper discharge of cleaning fluids and alignment of probes due to visual reliance, leading to potential contamination and misalignment issues affecting analysis results.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system with a detector on the probe to monitor the position and discharge of cleaning fluids, using capacitance detection to ensure accurate alignment and discharge within predetermined ranges, and a controller to notify operators of any deviations, thereby automating the cleaning process and probe alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual judgment by operator is used to check cleaning fluid discharge, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method with an automated optical detection system. A detector (camera) captures images of the cleaning fluid discharge, and image processing automatically determines whether the discharge is normal or abnormal, eliminating the need for operator visual judgment and improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system consisting of a detector and image processing unit that acts as a mediator between the cleaning fluid discharge process and the operator. This intermediary automatically assesses the discharge status, providing objective and precise measurement without requiring direct operator observation.
2Ease of operation
If visual judgment by operator is used to check probe position, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection of probe position with an automated optical detection system. The detector captures images of the probe, and image processing algorithms automatically determine probe position and alignment, providing precise measurement without relying on operator visual judgment.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary detection system with detector and image processing unit is introduced to automatically assess probe position. This intermediary provides objective and precise position determination, eliminating the imprecision of manual visual inspection while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Device complexity
If cleaning fluid is discharged from deep location inside cleaner, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection (which would be difficult from a deep location) with an automated optical detection system. The detector and image processing unit can assess cleaning fluid discharge from any location, including deep inside the cleaner, without requiring operator access or visual observation from that location.
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 solution ensures reliable cleaning fluid discharge and probe alignment, reducing contamination risks and improving analysis accuracy by eliminating the need for visual judgment, thus enhancing the reliability and precision of automatic analyzers.
Implementation Method 1
using capacitance detection to ensure accurate alignment and discharge within predetermined ranges
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic analyzer includes a probe, a cleaner, and a controller. The probe includes a detector for detecting a contact with a liquid. The probe sucks and discharges the liquid. The cleaner cleans an outer wall of the probe with a cleaning fluid. The controller causes the detector to perform a detection during cleaning by the cleaner, and judges a state of the cleaner based on a result of the detection.