Automated Analyzer Sample Return Buffer for Tray Position Errors
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automated analyzers, sample containers can be accidentally dropped or damaged due to improper handling during the conveyance process, especially when the sample tray is not correctly positioned or when another container is placed at the intended return location.
Innovation Solution
An automated analyzer with a retreat portion separate from the measurement device and sample tray, which temporarily stores sample containers that cannot be returned to their original position, preventing damage by using a conveyance device and control system to manage sample tray positioning and user instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the sample container is automatically returned to the original sample tray after measurement, then the automation efficiency is improved, but the sample container may be damaged if the tray is not properly positioned or occupied
Solution Approach 1:
A retreat portion is introduced as an intermediary location between the measurement device and the original sample tray. When the original sample tray cannot accept the measured sample container (due to improper positioning or occupation), the container is first retreated to this intermediate location, preventing damage while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs beforehand checking of the original sample tray's readiness to receive the container. If the tray is not properly positioned or is occupied, the system proactively directs the container to the retreat portion instead of attempting forced return, preventing damage before it occurs
2Ease of operation
If the sample tray can be pulled out during measurement for user access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of sample container damage increases due to improper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The control device receives feedback about the sample tray's positioning state and uses this information to determine whether to return the measured container to the original tray or to the retreat portion. This feedback mechanism allows user access while preventing damage by adapting the return destination based on current tray status
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the return destination of measured containers based on the real-time state of the sample tray. When the tray is properly positioned, containers are returned to the original location; when the tray is pulled out or improperly positioned, containers are retreated to the safe retreat portion instead
3Productivity
If multiple sample containers are placed on the same sample tray, then the productivity is improved, but the risk of container damage increases when returning measured containers
Solution Approach 1:
The retreat portion serves as an intermediary buffer that prevents direct interaction between measured containers and other containers already on the sample tray. This eliminates collision damage risk while allowing multiple containers to be processed on the same tray, maintaining high productivity
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
Prevents sample container damage by ensuring safe handling and storage of samples, reducing production costs and maintaining analyzer integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube (116) configured to generate X-rays
Implementation Method 2
The X-ray fluorescence analyzer is configured to analyze constitutional elements of a sample by irradiating the sample with X-rays and measuring the fluorescence X-rays emitted from the sample
Data Source
AI summary
An automated analyzer includes: a measurement device; at least one sample tray on which a plurality of sample containers is placed; a conveyance device configured to select one of the plurality of sample containers placed on the sample tray, convey the selected sample container to the measurement device, and return the sample container to an original sample tray on which the sample container was originally placed after measurement by the measurement device; a control device for controlling an operation of the conveyance device; and a retreat portion provided at a position different from positions where the measurement device and the sample tray are provided, the retreat portion being configured to temporarily place the sample container. The control device causes the sample container to retreat to the retreat portion in a case where the sample container cannot be returned from the measurement device to the sample tray.