Annular Container Holding Section for Compact Preprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional preprocessing devices face limitations in efficiency and compactness due to the inability to transport separation and collection containers simultaneously during sample extraction, leading to increased device size and reduced processing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A preprocessing device with an annular or arch-shaped container holding section that secures the filtration section at its center, allowing for simultaneous transportation and processing of multiple containers, and includes a detection and notification system to prevent installation errors and enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If separation containers and collection containers are transported by separate transport mechanisms, then sample extraction can be performed continuously, but the device size increases due to the need for separate transport systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport functions for separation containers and collection containers into a single transport mechanism. The transport mechanism includes a transport table that can hold both separation containers and collection containers simultaneously, and a transport arm that moves both types of containers along the same transport path. This merging of transport functions eliminates the need for separate transport systems, reducing device size while maintaining continuous processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to handle both separation containers and collection containers using the same transport infrastructure. The transport table can be configured to hold different container types, and the transport arm can perform multiple operations including moving separation containers to the filtration section and moving collection containers to receive extracted samples. This universal transport system achieves continuous processing without requiring dedicated transport mechanisms for each container type.
2Productivity
If a separate filtration section is provided to enable simultaneous transport and processing, then preprocessing efficiency increases, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration section is integrated into the transport path rather than being a separate standalone unit. The transport table positions both separation and collection containers at the filtration section simultaneously, allowing the filtration process to occur within the compact transport system. This integration eliminates the need for additional separate filtration equipment, reducing installation space while enabling continuous preprocessing operations.
3Device complexity
If containers are moved sequentially to the transport position, then the device structure remains simple, but transportation time increases due to longer distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear sequential container movement to a two-dimensional annular arrangement where containers are positioned around the filtration section. The transport table rotates to bring multiple containers to the filtration position simultaneously, and the transport arm can service multiple containers in different angular positions. This dimensional change from linear to radial arrangement reduces the travel distance for each container while maintaining relatively simple mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport mechanism incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities where the transport table can rotate to optimal positions and the transport arm can adjust its movement patterns based on the number and arrangement of containers. This dynamic operation allows the system to efficiently service multiple containers in parallel rather than strictly sequential processing, reducing overall transportation time without significantly increasing structural complexity.
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
The compact design reduces transportation time and increases preprocessing efficiency by minimizing the distance between containers and the filtration section, while the detection and notification systems prevent errors, ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
The filtration section separates a sample by the separating layer by applying pressure to a sample in the separation container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
The present invention provides a preprocessing device of a more compact structure, and an analysis system provided with the same. A preprocessing device (1) includes a container holding section (12), a filtration port (30), and a transport arm (24). The container holding section (12) holds a separation container (50) and a collection container (54). The filtration port (30) separates a sample by applying pressure to a sample in the separation container (50). The transport arm (24) transports the separation container (50) and the collection container (54) held by the container holding section (12) from a predetermined transport position. The container holding section (12) holds the separation container (50) and the collection container (54) in an annular or arch-shaped holding region formed on an outer circumference of the filtration port (30), and sequentially moves the separation container (50) and the collection container (54) to the transport position by shifting the separation container (50) and the collection container (54) in the circumferential direction of the holding region.