Aspirator Position Adjustment via Capacitance Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample processing apparatuses face challenges in accurately locating aspiration tubes due to dimensional variations in parts, leading to potential collisions and damage, especially in adjusting the position of aspirators in sample or reagent containers.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a capacitance sensor connected to the aspirator to detect changes in capacitance while moving above an electrically conductive position adjustment part, allowing for precise setting of reference positions without physical collisions, using a movement mechanism and controller to adjust the aspirator's position accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the aspiration tube is adjusted by colliding it with a positioning detection member, then the horizontal position can be corrected, but the aspiration tube may be deformed or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical collision-based positioning method with a capacitance sensor-based detection system. The capacitance sensor detects the position of the aspiration tube tip without physical contact, eliminating the need for the tube to collide with positioning members. This substitution of mechanical detection with electrical sensing resolves the contradiction by achieving precise position measurement while protecting the aspiration tube from deformation or damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capacitance sensor as an intermediary between the positioning system and the aspiration tube. Instead of directly colliding the tube with positioning members, the capacitance sensor acts as a mediator that detects the tube's position through non-contact capacitance changes. This intermediary approach enables precise position adjustment while avoiding direct mechanical contact that could harm the tube.
2Productivity
If the aspiration tube is lowered to insert into the container, then sampling can be performed, but collision with the container or apparatus body may occur causing poor aspiration or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary position detection using the capacitance sensor before the aspiration tube is lowered into the container. By detecting the tip position in advance and comparing it with the container opening position, the system can prevent collision before it occurs. This preliminary action enables safe insertion while maintaining sampling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the capacitance sensor continuously monitors the aspiration tube's position during insertion. The detected position information is fed back to the control system, which adjusts the tube's movement to avoid collision with the container or apparatus body. This feedback loop ensures safe operation while maintaining productive sampling.
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 prevents deformation and damage to the aspirator by enabling non-contact, precise positioning, ensuring accurate aspiration and reducing the risk of collisions, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of sample processing operations.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor while moving the aspirator; setting reference position information indicating a reference position of the aspirator based on change in the obtained capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for adjusting a position of an aspirator in a sample processing apparatus, the sample processing apparatus comprising the aspirator configured to aspirate a sample or a reagent from a container and a capacitance sensor connected to the aspirator to detect change in capacitance, the method comprising: moving the aspirator above a position adjustment part which is electrically conductive and which is disposed at a predetermined position; obtaining capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor while moving the aspirator; and setting reference position information indicating a reference position of the aspirator based on change in the obtained capacitance.