Automatic Analyzer Probe Washing Unit Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analyzers face challenges in effectively washing the external surface of sample dispensing probes, leading to contamination and reduced dispensing accuracy, especially when handling lower layer samples in blood collection tubes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a washing unit with a washing tank that uses pure water as a cleaning liquid, featuring first and second washing tubes and an exhaust tube, which allows for targeted washing of the sample dispensing probe's external surface, preventing sample adherence and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a washing method is used to wash the end outside side of a sample dispensing probe, then contamination of the next dispensed sample is prevented, but the washing path must be enlarged and strong pressure washing water is required, which enlarges the washing tank
Solution Approach 1:
The washing function is segmented into two distinct washing tubes: a first washing tube that washes the end outside side of the probe, and a second washing tube that washes the wide range external surface. This segmentation allows each tube to be optimized for its specific washing task, eliminating the need for a single enlarged washing path.
Solution Approach 2:
A second washing tube is introduced as an intermediary element to specifically address the wide range external surface washing. This intermediary component handles the additional washing burden, allowing the first washing tube to maintain its original size while still preventing contamination.
2Reliability
If strong pressure washing water is emitted to prevent spilling, then washing effectiveness is improved, but the washing tank must be enlarged to contain the washing water
Solution Approach 1:
The washing function is divided between two washing tubes, allowing each to operate at lower pressure for its specific zone. The first washing tube handles the end outside side with controlled pressure, while the second washing tube handles the wide range external surface, eliminating the need for high-pressure washing that would require a larger tank.
Solution Approach 2:
Different washing approaches are applied to different parts of the probe: the first washing tube provides targeted washing for the end outside side, while the second washing tube provides coverage for the wide range external surface. This localized quality approach allows effective washing without requiring high pressure throughout the entire system.
3Ease of manufacture
If the cleaning liquid is applied at the current position, then the application is simple, but the cleaning liquid cannot cover the whole wide range external surface, leaving sample adherence
Solution Approach 1:
The washing coverage is segmented into two zones: the first washing tube covers the end outside side of the probe, and the second washing tube covers the wide range external surface. This segmentation maintains manufacturing simplicity while achieving complete coverage that prevents sample adherence.
Solution Approach 2:
The washing system achieves multi-functionality by using two washing tubes that together cover the entire external surface of the probe. The first washing tube handles the critical end outside side, while the second washing tube handles the broader external surface, creating a universal washing solution that addresses all contamination risks.
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 effectively washes the external surface of the sample dispensing probe without reducing the dispensing accuracy of lower layer samples, preventing contamination and ensuring accurate sample dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
a washing unit (70) that washes the external surface in contact with the sample of the sample dispensing probe (16)
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent in a reaction cuvette and measures the mixed solution, including a dispensing probe configured to suction the sample from the sample container and to discharge the sample into the reaction cuvette; a detecting unit configured to detect the sample in the sample container by the end part of the dispensing probe contacting the sample; and a washing unit configured to wash a wide range of the external surface containing a broad end part, rather than the end part of the dispensing probe, which keeps the suctioned sample in the sample container in a second downward suction position, rather than a first suction position detected by the detection unit, wherein the washing unit is configured to have a washing tube, wherein the dispensing probe enters into an upper part of the washing tube, and a pump that supplies the washing tube with cleaning liquid and makes the cleaning liquid flow up through the inside of the washing tube.