Console Positioning Jig for Laboratory Automation Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In laboratory settings, precise positioning and secure connection of consoles are crucial for efficient transfer of sample receptacles between conveyor tracks and analyzers, but existing methods lack a reliable and efficient mechanism for achieving this alignment and stability.
Innovation Solution
A jig assembly is introduced, featuring positioning pins and a connection bracket system that allows for precise alignment and secure attachment of consoles, utilizing a mounting rail and pin recesses to ensure accurate lateral positioning and prevent movement between consoles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional positioning methods are used for console alignment, then the setup process is simple, but the positioning precision and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A jig assembly serves as an intermediary tool between the first and second consoles during assembly. The jig includes positioning pins that fit into corresponding recesses on the consoles, providing precise alignment and positioning. This intermediary positioning mechanism enables accurate console placement without requiring complex integrated positioning systems on the consoles themselves.
2Measurement precision
If consoles are precisely positioned relative to each other, then sample transfer accuracy improves, but the risk of movement and misalignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The jig assembly performs preliminary positioning action during the assembly phase. Positioning pins are inserted into predefined recesses on the consoles before the consoles are fully installed or operated. This preliminary positioning establishes the correct relative alignment and spacing between consoles, ensuring both transfer accuracy and alignment stability throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning pins and connection brackets in the jig assembly act as intermediaries that physically connect the first and second consoles. These intermediary components maintain the precise relative positioning established during assembly, preventing movement and ensuring consistent alignment stability during sample transfer operations.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a secure connection mechanism is implemented between consoles, then movement prevention improves, but the ease of assembly and disassembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into separate, modular components: positioning pins, connection brackets, and fasteners. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently assembled or disassembled. This segmentation allows the connection mechanism to provide stable, secure attachment while maintaining ease of assembly through a systematic, step-by-step process rather than requiring complex integrated fastening systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A jig assembly for connecting first and second consoles with predefined relative positioning includes first and second positioning pins attached or attachable to the first console and a positioning connection bracket attached or attachable to the second console and including a longitudinal span and first and second transverse legs including first and second pin recesses at respective free ends thereof. The first and second pin recesses receive the first and second positioning pins, respectively, when the first and second consoles are moved laterally toward each other. The first and second transverse legs may be attached to the first console with a first and second leg attachment brackets, respectively. The first and second positing pins and the first and second leg attachment brackets may be fixed with respect to the first console by attachment to a mounting rail that is fixed to the first console.