Coupled Laboratory Stirrers With Central Parameter Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory devices, such as magnetic stirrers, require separate adjustment of operating parameters for each device when multiple units are used simultaneously, leading to increased complexity and error probability, as well as unnecessary duplication of control elements.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory device with a coupling mechanism that allows multiple devices of the same type to be operated and controlled centrally through a common adjustment device, eliminating the need for separate adjustment devices and reducing the complexity of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple laboratory devices are used simultaneously with separate control, then each device can be operated independently, but the complexity of operation increases and error probability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate control devices into a single centralized control unit that can manage multiple laboratory devices simultaneously. The control unit integrates multiple control interfaces and parameter adjustment mechanisms into one unified system, eliminating the need for separate adjustment devices for each laboratory device. This merging approach reduces operational complexity while maintaining independent control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed with universal functionality to manage various types of laboratory devices through a single interface. It incorporates multiple control channels and adaptive parameter management that allow one device to control multiple different laboratory instruments, reducing the overall system complexity and eliminating redundant control elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate adjustment devices are provided for each laboratory device, then each device can be controlled independently, but duplication of control elements increases complexity and space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustment devices are merged into a single centralized control unit that provides independent control channels for each laboratory device. The control unit integrates multiple knobs, displays, and adjustment mechanisms into one unified structure, eliminating duplication while preserving the ability to independently adjust parameters for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the operator and multiple laboratory devices. It provides a unified interface that mediates control signals to the appropriate devices, allowing independent adjustment of each device's parameters through a single centralized location rather than requiring separate adjustment devices for each instrument.
3Reliability
If multiple laboratory devices are operated separately, then each device has its own control elements, but this leads to increased error probability and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit combines multiple control functions into one integrated system that can simultaneously manage multiple laboratory devices. By merging control elements and providing unified parameter adjustment, it reduces the time required to set up and adjust multiple devices while maintaining reliable independent control through dedicated control channels for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit allows for preliminary setting and synchronization of parameters across multiple devices before operation begins. Operators can pre-configure all necessary parameters through the centralized interface, reducing adjustment time during operation and minimizing errors by ensuring consistent settings across multiple devices before starting experiments.
Data Source
AI summary
A laboratory device (4, 9), in particular a magnetic stirrer, comprises at least one adjustable operating parameter for controlling at least one laboratory device function, and an outer housing (2). The outer housing (2) has a coupling device (11a, 11b) for coupling the laboratory device (4, 9) to at least one further laboratory device (5, 9) for the same at least one laboratory device function, at which further laboratory device the at least one operating parameter can also be adjusted, and the coupling device (11a, 11b) is configured such that by means of the coupling device (11a, 11b) the laboratory device (4, 9) and the at least one further laboratory device (5, 9) can be operated simultaneously and by means of a common adjustment device the at least one operating parameter can be adjusted in a central manner independently and/or consistently for the laboratory device (4, 9) and the at least one further laboratory device (5, 9).