Automated Sample Changing Device for Imaging Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-destructive sample analysis methods, particularly imaging technologies, are laborious, time-consuming, prone to errors, and pose safety hazards due to high human intervention, leading to increased operational costs and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A sample changing device that automates the positioning and orientation of samples relative to imaging devices, reducing manual intervention by using a sample holder and maneuvering device to align and move samples within the imaging field, allowing for sequential or simultaneous imaging without manual reloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sample changing is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is divided into multiple positions (first position and second position) to accommodate different samples. The maneuvering device segments the sample changing process into automated positioning operations, allowing sequential imaging without manual intervention and thereby improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample changing device automates the sample positioning process, enabling the system to service itself by automatically changing samples between imaging positions without requiring manual operator intervention, thus increasing productivity and reducing time loss.
2Reliability
If manual intervention is increased, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability decreases due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The maneuvering device incorporates positioning mechanisms that automatically adjust sample positions with high precision. The system uses feedback control to ensure accurate sample alignment and orientation, improving imaging reliability while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical sample handling is replaced with an automated maneuvering device that uses controlled mechanical movements to position and orient samples. This substitution eliminates human error in sample positioning while maintaining operational simplicity through automated sequencing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If human intervention is required, then ease of operation is maintained, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to radiation exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sample changing device performs all sample positioning and changing operations without requiring human operators to be present in the radiation field. The system services itself by automatically moving samples between positions, eliminating radiation exposure risk while maintaining operational convenience through remote or automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The maneuvering device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the sample, performing all necessary positioning and orientation operations. This intermediary function protects operators from radiation exposure while maintaining ease of operation through automated control sequences.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sample changing device configured to change samples of a plurality of samples for at least one imaging device configured to at least partially image each sample of the plurality of samples. The sample changing device includes at least one sample holder configured to receive the plurality of samples simultaneously and at least one maneuvering device configured to maneuver at least one sample of the plurality of samples at least between imaging of consecutive samples of the plurality of samples, when the plurality of samples is received by the at least one sample holder. The present disclosure also relates to an imaging system and a method of imaging a plurality of samples.