Automated Sample Removal for Contamination-Resistant Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing testing systems face challenges in achieving high accuracy and safety, particularly when performed by inexperienced testers due to the need for skill in handling samples, leading to potential contamination of storage containers.
Innovation Solution
A sample removal apparatus with a storage container holder, removal section, housing, and supply section that allows for automated sample handling and storage container management, reducing the need for direct handling by the tester.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tester manually handles the storage container to perform sample extraction, then the testing process can be completed, but contamination of the storage container is likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
A robotic arm serves as an intermediary device between the operator and the storage container. The robotic arm includes a suction unit that contacts the storage container to perform sample extraction, while the operator never directly touches the container. This intermediary mechanism eliminates contamination risk while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automated sample extraction where the robotic arm autonomously performs the extraction process. The suction unit automatically inserts into the storage container, extracts the sample, and removes it without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability ensures contamination-free operation.
2Reliability
If automation is introduced to reduce contamination risk, then safety and accuracy improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a robotic arm unit with suction mechanism, a storage container holder, and a control unit. Each module performs a specific function, making the overall complex system manageable through modular design. The suction unit is further segmented into insertion mechanism and extraction mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform multiple operations: holding the storage container, inserting the suction unit, extracting the sample, and removing the container. This universality reduces the need for separate specialized devices, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inexperienced testers perform manual sample handling, then operational flexibility is maintained, but testing accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm acts as a mediator that transfers the operational flexibility from the operator to the automated system. The operator provides high-level commands through the control unit, while the robotic arm executes precise movements and operations. This intermediary arrangement allows inexperienced operators to achieve expert-level precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations by the tester are replaced with automated mechanical operations by the robotic arm. The robotic arm uses programmed movements and automated suction mechanisms to perform sample extraction with consistent precision, eliminating the variability and errors associated with manual handling by inexperienced testers.
Data Source
AI summary
An extraction apparatus is a sample removal apparatus that removes a sample collected from a living body. The extraction apparatus includes: a storage container holder that holds a storage container of a sample and is capable of being placed at a sample receiving section where the sample is supplied to the storage container, and a removal section that causes the sample to be discharged from the storage container to a predetermined place; a housing that covers the storage container holder and the removal section; and a supply section that allows for supply of the sample from the outside of the housing to the storage container in the housing.