Array Suction Unit for Sample Analyzer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers require complex configurations to suction samples from sample containers, as they need to accommodate different transport paths and prevent sample container movement during suction.
Innovation Solution
A sample analyzer with a common suction unit that can penetrate the stopper of the sample container, positioned at a single suction location accessible by two transport paths, allowing for simple and efficient sample suction regardless of the transport path used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a common suction unit is used for both transport paths, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult to prevent sample container movement during suction
Solution Approach 1:
The suction unit is divided into multiple independent suction nozzles arranged in an array. Each nozzle can independently penetrate the stopper and suction sample from different positions within the sample container. This segmentation allows the system to maintain a simple common suction unit structure while achieving reliable sample suction by distributing the suction function across multiple points, preventing sample container movement through distributed force application.
2Productivity
If the suction unit penetrates the stopper to suction sample from within the container, then sampling efficiency is improved, but the risk of contaminating the sample increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple suction nozzles are arranged in an array to create redundant suction pathways. The nozzles are positioned to suction sample from different locations within the container, providing backup pathways. If one nozzle contacts the stopper or becomes blocked, other nozzles can still function, ensuring continuous efficient sampling while reducing contamination risk through distributed access points.
3Reliability
If multiple suction nozzles are arranged in an array, then sample suction reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The common suction unit with multiple nozzles serves multiple functions simultaneously: it can suction sample from different positions within the container, provide redundant pathways for reliable sampling, and maintain a compact unified structure. This multi-functional design achieves improved suction reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the entire nozzle array functions as a single integrated suction system rather than multiple separate units.
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
Enables efficient and simple sample suction from sample containers transported via different paths, reducing the complexity of the analyzer and ensuring reliable sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a suction unit (411) for suctioning a sample in a sample container (20) through a stopper (210) installed in the opening (221) of the sample container (20)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A sample analyzer includes: a suction unit configured to suction a sample in a sample container through a stopper installed in an opening of the sample container; a rack transport unit configured to transport a sample rack holding a sample container along a transport path, and position the sample container held by the sample rack at a suction position by the suction unit; a sample transport unit in which a sample container other than the sample container transported by the rack transport unit is installed and which is configured to transport the installed sample container to the suction position provided on the transport path; a measurement unit configured to measure a sample suctioned by the suction unit from the sample container positioned at the suction position; and an analysis unit configured to analyze the sample based on the measurement result of the measurement unit.