Centrifugal Separators with Movable Base Route

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing centrifugal separation apparatuses face efficiency issues when processing a large number of sample containers, as the time required for conveying and returning them to the processing line is lengthy, leading to decreased processing efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A centrifugal separation apparatus with a movement mechanism that sequentially circulates multiple centrifugal separators along a predetermined route, allowing simultaneous processing and transfer of sample containers, enabling continuous centrifugal separation while minimizing wait times and optimizing space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single centrifugal separator is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity decreases when processing a large number of sample containers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidapparatus structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the centrifugal separation function into multiple independent separators (first centrifugal separator, second centrifugal separator, etc.), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple sample containers, significantly improving productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separators are designed to be movable within the base rather than fixed, allowing dynamic reconfiguration. The movement mechanism enables separators to be positioned optimally during processing and easily accessed during loading/unloading, resolving the contradiction between maintaining complex multi-separator configuration and enabling easy operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If multiple centrifugal separators are used, then the productivity increases, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidmovement mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The movement mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables separators to move between operational positions, facilitates easy loading and unloading of sample containers, and allows for maintenance access. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing several benefits simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The base acts as an intermediary structure that houses both the multiple centrifugal separators and the movement mechanism. This centralized intermediary design consolidates the complexity within a single structural element, making the overall system more manageable despite having multiple separators

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of time

If sequential conveyance of sample containers is used, then the device complexity is low, but the loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewait timeVSAvoidconveyance system

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

While sample containers are being conveyed to one separator, other separators can simultaneously perform centrifugal separation on previously loaded containers. This continuity eliminates idle wait time between loading and processing, significantly reducing the loss of time without requiring a complex automated conveyance system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 solution enhances processing efficiency by allowing continuous centrifugal separation of a large number of sample containers, reducing wait times, and optimizing the use of space within the apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of centrifugal separators 10, a base 20 for accommodating the centrifugal separators 10; a movement mechanism 30 for sequentially moving the centrifugal separators 10 along a predetermined route inside the base 20

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCentrifugal separation: Centrifugal Separation

Implementation Method 2

a movement mechanism 30 for sequentially moving the centrifugal separators 10 along a predetermined route inside the base 20

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical movement:

Data Source

PatentUS9889453B2Centrifugal separation apparatus having a plurality of separators arranged and moveable in a base and centrifugal separation method

Publication Date: 2018.02.13 AOI SEIKI

AI summary

A centrifugal separation apparatus includes a plurality of centrifugal separators each comprising a rotator which supports a plurality of sample containers containing a sample therein, a base in which the centrifugal separators are arranged in columns and stages and a route is defined therein, the centrifugal separators being movable inside the base, and a movement mechanism that sequentially move the centrifugal separators along the route in the base.