Centrifuge Loading Apparatus Balancing Sample Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current centrifuge loading and unloading systems require time-consuming weight balancing processes to minimize unbalance during centrifugation, which detracts from efficiency and increases processing time.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine the combined weight of bucket inserts and place unprocessed sample containers into the highest priority unoccupied receptacle location of the lowest combined weight bucket insert, reducing the need for post-loading balancing and minimizing robot motions and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If weight balancing is performed by inserting sample containers in a predetermined pattern or by moving sample containers between receptacles, then centrifuge balance is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs weight measurement and balancing decisions during the initial loading phase rather than after loading is complete. The weight scale measures each bucket insert weight in real-time, and the controller makes placement decisions based on these measurements before the loading process finishes, eliminating post-loading balancing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback by measuring the weight of bucket inserts in real-time during loading, comparing weights to determine the lighter insert, and adjusting subsequent sample container placements accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures balance is achieved during loading without requiring additional balancing steps
2Stability of the object's composition
If weight balancing is performed by adding dummy weight tubes or reconfiguring sample containers, then centrifuge balance is improved, but device complexity and process steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for dummy weight tubes and complex reconfiguration procedures by extracting the balancing function into the initial loading process itself. The controller directs sample container placement based on real-time weight measurements, achieving balance without requiring separate balancing operations or additional balancing components
Solution Approach 2:
The loading system performs its own balancing function during the normal loading operation. The weight scale and controller work together to automatically adjust sample container placement based on measured weights, allowing the system to self-balance without external intervention or additional balancing mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A loading apparatus and system is adapted to load unprocessed sample containers in a centrifuge and provide improved balance thereof. The apparatus has a staging platform containing at least two bucket inserts, a weight scale operable to determine a combined weight of each of the bucket inserts, a centrifuge configured to receive the bucket inserts as pairs, a robot operable to insert an unprocessed sample container into the bucket inserts, and a controller operable to command the robot to carry out placement of the unprocessed sample container into a highest priority empty receptacle of a lowest combined weight bucket insert. Methods of operating the system are provided.