Automated Centrifuge Loader With Magnetic Rotor Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological sample processing methods, particularly for blood samples, are prone to human errors due to complex and elaborate procedures, leading to inaccurate diagnostic results and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing unit that automates the preparation, stabilization, centrifugation, and storage of biological samples, using a positioning component to facilitate automatic loading and unloading of samples on a centrifuge, reducing the need for high-cost motors and enabling compact, portable systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual sample processing methods are used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but human errors increase and processing accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sample processing system is divided into distinct functional modules: sample reception unit, identification scanning unit, preparation unit, centrifugation unit, and storage unit. Each module performs a specific task independently, reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability through specialized automation of each step.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations (hand mixing, manual loading, physical handling) are replaced with automated mechanical systems including robotic arms, automated mixers, and programmable centrifuge loaders, eliminating human error while maintaining controlled mechanical precision.
2Productivity
If complex sample processing procedures are followed, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but processing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous sample processing by eliminating idle time between steps. As one sample is being centrifuged, the next sample can be loaded simultaneously, and previous samples are automatically transferred to storage, creating an uninterrupted workflow that increases productivity without sacrificing processing thoroughness.
Solution Approach 2:
Sample identification and preparation steps are performed in advance before centrifugation. The scanner reads identifiers and pre-configures processing parameters beforehand, so that when the sample reaches the centrifuge, all setup is complete, reducing actual processing time while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If high-precision motors are used for centrifuge positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic alignment mechanism serves as an intermediary between the positioning system and the centrifuge rotor. Magnetic alignment pins or indicators provide precise positioning without requiring expensive high-precision motors, achieving accurate sample loading through magnetic field guidance rather than costly mechanical precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using expensive high-precision motors for each positioning function, the system uses standardized, lower-cost motor designs combined with magnetic alignment features that replicate the positioning effect. This substitutes expensive precision components with cheaper alternatives that achieve the same functional result through magnetic field guidance.
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
The system reduces the risk of errors, simplifies and expedites sample preparation, and lowers costs by automating sample identification, clotting, centrifugation, and storage processes.
Implementation Method 1
The rotor of the centrifuge includes a portion made of a ferromagnetic material. The positioning component has a motor and an alignment magnet. The motor is coupled to the alignment magnet and is configured to transition between a first position in which the alignment magnet and the portion of the rotor are separated by a first distance, and a second position in which the alignment magnet and the portion of the rotor are separated by a second distance, smaller than the first distance, to initiate magnetic engagement between the alignment magnet and the portion of the rotor to align the portion of the rotor with the alignment magnet.
Implementation Method 2
a centrifuge disposed within the housing and including a rotor... to the centrifuge for centrifuging the blood sample
Data Source
AI summary
A processing unit for automated preparation of biological samples included in specimen tubes is described herein. The processing unit includes a removable sample preparation component configured to receive specimen tubes, read identifiers associated with the biological samples contained in the specimen tubes, mix reagents included in the specimen tubes, and transfer the specimen tubes to at least one of a centrifuge or a storage compartment. The processing unit further includes a centrifuge loader for automatic loading and unloading of the specimen tubes onto a centrifuge. The automated centrifuge loader includes a magnetic brake that can stop the centrifuge rotor at a precise position to facilitate loading and unloading of a specimen tube. The centrifuge includes a swing bucket designed to pivot around an axis and slide vertically to enable moving the bucket to a position in which the swing bucket can engage with the port where the specimen tube resides.