Automatic Analyser Switching Racks for Nonstop Reexamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analysers face inefficiencies in handling small sample amounts that require immediate removal after initial measurement, leading to rack retardation and decreased throughput due to automatic reexamination functions, and complex rack ID settings complicate proper rack usage.
Innovation Solution
An automatic analyser that uses operation mode switching racks to dynamically control reexamination validation and invalidation, allowing immediate removal of samples without stopping measurement, and employs distinct rack shapes or coatings for mode switching, eliminating the need for complex ID settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic reexamination function is enabled, then measurement reliability is improved, but rack throughput decreases due to rack retardation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different reexamination settings to different racks locally. Rack ID management allows each rack to have independent reexamination validation status, enabling small sample racks to be excluded from automatic reexamination while maintaining the function for other racks. This resolves the contradiction by making reexamination applicable only where needed rather than system-wide.
2Measurement precision
If automatic reexamination is switched in units of examination objects, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the rack ID management system multi-functional by using it for both rack identification and reexamination control. The same rack ID database serves dual purposes: tracking rack locations and managing reexamination validation status. This reduces device complexity compared to implementing separate examination object-level control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex rack ID settings are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically managing rack ID assignments and reexamination validation status without requiring manual configuration for each rack. The rack ID management system automatically tracks which racks have small samples and applies appropriate reexamination settings, eliminating the need for operators to manually configure complex parameters.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an automatic analyser capable of switching an apparatus operation mode, such as automatic reexamination, without stopping measurement by efficiently using a rack. The automatic analyser includes a storage unit that stores an operation mode, such as automatic reexamination, of the automatic analyser, a detection unit that detects an operation mode switching rack inserted into an insertion unit, and a control unit that switches the operation mode stored in the storage unit on the basis of the detection of the operation mode switching rack by the detection unit. The control unit applies the switched operation mode to an examination object rack transported from the insertion unit to a transport line after the operation mode switching rack.