Cascade Sample Analysis Modules With Shared Vessel Dispatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
The upgrade of two single sample analyzers to a cascade instrument results in significant cost waste due to the need for additional modules and mechanisms, and existing sample analysis systems lack efficient dispatching mechanisms for multiple analyzers.
Innovation Solution
A sample analysis system with a first and second analysis module, each equipped with dispatching and test components, and a cascade dispatching mechanism that allows independent dispatching and testing of sample vessels between modules, eliminating the need for additional transit mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two sample analyzers are combined and cascade-connected to form a cascade instrument, then sample test throughput is improved, but additional modules and mechanisms must be added causing cost waste
Solution Approach 1:
The dispatching mechanism in each analysis module is designed to perform dual functions: it can dispatch sample vessels within its own module and also dispatch sample vessels to other cascade-connected modules. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate transit mechanisms between modules, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining improved sample test throughput.
2Productivity
If two sample analyzers are combined and cascade-connected to form a cascade instrument, then sample test efficiency is improved, but modules must be added or discarded causing cost waste
Solution Approach 1:
The dispatching mechanism is designed with universal functionality to operate both within its host module and across cascade-connected modules. This design allows existing modules to be fully utilized without requiring additional transit mechanisms or discarding any components, thereby improving sample test efficiency while avoiding cost waste from adding or discarding modules.
3Productivity
If multiple sets of sample feeding mechanisms and test mechanisms are provided, then sample test throughput is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dispatching functions of multiple modules into a unified cascade system where each module's dispatching mechanism can serve multiple purposes. Instead of having completely separate feeding and test mechanisms for each module with dedicated transit systems, the dispatching mechanisms are combined to share the function of moving sample vessels both within and between modules, thereby improving throughput while reducing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a sample analysis system. The sample analysis system includes a first analysis module, a second analysis module and a cascade dispatching mechanism. The cascade dispatching mechanism is configured to dispatch at least a portion of first sample vessels provided by a first sample feeding mechanism to the second analysis module, so as for a second test component to test at least a portion of a first sample in each of the first sample vessels dispatched by the cascade dispatching mechanism, to obtain a second test result; and/or, to dispatch at least a portion of second sample vessels provided by a second sample feeding mechanism to the first analysis module, so as for a first test component to test at least a portion of a second sample in each of the second sample vessels dispatched by the cascade dispatching mechanism, to obtain a first test result.