Automated Analyzer Independent Sample Dispensing Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated analyzers face reduced processing capacity and dispensation accuracy due to the need for pretreatment of whole blood and blood cells, which requires complex mechanisms and increased viscosity, leading to suction resistance and decreased reproducibility in dispensing minute amounts.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple sample dispensing mechanisms with varying nozzle configurations and operation cycles based on sample type and viscosity, allowing for independent operation and optimized nozzle design for different liquid properties, along with a sample transport mechanism to manage sample containers, prevents wasteful vacancy cycles and maintains accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single sample dispensing mechanism is used to perform both analysis dispensing and pretreatment dispensing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the processing capacity is greatly decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sample dispensing function into two separate mechanisms: a first sample dispensing mechanism for analysis dispensing and a second sample dispensing mechanism for pretreatment dispensing. This segmentation allows both mechanisms to operate independently and simultaneously, preventing the processing capacity reduction that would occur if a single mechanism had to sequentially perform both tasks.
2Manufacturing precision
If the nozzle internal diameter is decreased to dispense minute amounts of serum with high reproducibility, then the dispensation precision is improved, but the suction resistance is increased for high viscosity samples
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different nozzle internal diameters tailored to specific sample types: a first nozzle with internal diameter of 0.3-0.8mm for low viscosity samples (serum, plasma) to achieve precise minute amount dispensing, and a second nozzle with internal diameter of 0.8-1.5mm for high viscosity samples (whole blood, blood cells) to reduce suction resistance. This local optimization of nozzle dimensions resolves the contradiction between precision and suction resistance.
3Force
If the nozzle internal diameter is increased to accommodate high viscosity samples, then the suction resistance is reduced, but the dispensation reproducibility is decreased for minute amounts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different nozzle internal diameters for different sample types: a smaller first nozzle (0.3-0.8mm) optimized for precise dispensing of minute amounts of low viscosity samples, and a larger second nozzle (0.8-1.5mm) optimized for reducing suction resistance when handling high viscosity samples. This localized optimization ensures each nozzle performs its specific function effectively.
4Device complexity
If a single sample dispensing mechanism is used for all sample types, then the device complexity is reduced, but the dispensation accuracy is decreased due to varying liquid properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different nozzle internal diameters tailored to specific sample viscosity characteristics: a first nozzle (0.3-0.8mm) for low viscosity samples requiring precise minute amount dispensing, and a second nozzle (0.8-1.5mm) for high viscosity samples requiring lower suction resistance. This localized optimization of nozzle dimensions according to sample properties maintains high dispensation accuracy across different sample types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sample dispensing function into two separate mechanisms with different nozzle configurations, allowing each mechanism to be optimized for its specific sample type. This segmentation prevents the accuracy degradation that would result from using a single nozzle design for samples with vastly different viscosity properties.
5Reliability
If the nozzle is dipped deeper in the sample for whole blood centrifugation, then the sample collection is improved, but the nozzle washing complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns dedicated functions to separate mechanisms: the second sample dispensing mechanism with its larger diameter nozzle is specifically designed for whole blood centrifugation and deep dipping, while the first mechanism handles routine dispensing. This segmentation isolates the complex deep-dipping operation to a specialized mechanism, making the washing process more manageable and reducing overall system 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
This configuration enhances processing capacity and accuracy by selectively using mechanisms suited to each sample type, reducing suction resistance and improving dispensation efficiency without increasing the apparatus' complexity or footprint.
Implementation Method 1
a suction pump, and a nozzle with which the sample is suctioned by the suction pump
Implementation Method 2
in a whole blood sample analysis, whole blood is centrifuged to suction blood cells at the bottom of a sample container
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an automated analyzer that is compact and capable of multiple types of analysis, and that can maintain high processing capacity and dispensation accuracy even when an item requiring dilution/pretreatment and a general reaction measurement item are mixed. The automated analyzer includes a plurality of sample dispensing mechanisms that can be independently driven. The plurality of sample dispensing mechanisms each include a sample collection position, a sample nozzle for collecting the sample, and a washing tank for washing the sample nozzle. The sample dispensing mechanisms are configured to collect the sample from a plurality of sample collection positions and are operated independently to perform sample dispensation into reaction containers on a reaction disc. At least one of the sample dispensing mechanisms is provided for each of a sample requiring dilution/pretreatment and a sample that does not require dilution/pretreatment. The automated analyzer is provided with a control means for causing the respective mechanisms to be operated in a dedicated manner. The sample is dispensed such that no vacancy is created in the reaction containers.