Cover Assembly with Dual Movable Covers for Contamination Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated analytical procedures face contamination issues due to open containers being accessed by fluid transfer apparatuses, leading to accidental dripping of material into sample containers.
Innovation Solution
A cover assembly with a tray assembly frame, supported by first and second covers that move independently to block or allow access to tray holders, preventing contamination by positioning the covers to align openings over tray holders when not in use, and using actuators to manage the movement of the covers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If containers are left open for fluid transfer access, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing dynamic adjustment based on operational needs. The cover can be opened to permit fluid transfer device access to sample containers, then closed to prevent contamination, creating a dynamic barrier that adapts to the workflow requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover assembly serves as an intermediary element between the sample containers and the fluid transfer device. It provides a controlled interface that allows necessary fluid transfer operations while blocking harmful contamination pathways, acting as a mediating structure that enables useful action while preventing harm.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If covers are added to block access, then contamination prevention is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly transitions from a static barrier to a dynamic component that can be opened and closed. This dynamic capability ensures that contamination prevention is maintained when the cover is closed, while ease of operation is restored when the cover is opened for necessary fluid transfer access.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover assembly operates through periodic opening and closing cycles that correspond to the workflow requirements. During fluid transfer operations, the cover is periodically opened to allow access, then closed to maintain contamination prevention, creating a rhythmic pattern of access and protection that balances both competing needs.
3Device complexity
If a single cover is used, then device complexity is reduced, but contamination protection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is segmented into multiple covers (first cover and second cover) that can operate independently or together. This segmentation allows each cover to provide a layer of protection, and when both are closed, they create multiple barriers against contamination, enhancing protection while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to contamination protection by stacking covers at different heights or layers. The first cover and second cover create a multi-layered barrier system that protects samples from contamination approaches from different directions or heights, adding dimensional complexity to the protection mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A cover assembly may include a tray assembly frame, a first cover supported by the tray assembly frame, the first cover extending in a first plane and defining one or more first openings; a second cover supported by the tray assembly frame, the second cover extending in a second plane and defining one or more second openings, wherein the first and second planes are different planes, and wherein the second cover is disposed above the first cover. The cover assembly may include one or more tray holders, each tray holder being configured to hold at least one tray in an upright orientation, wherein each tray holder is moveable between an open position and a closed position, the tray holders being accessible for loading or removing the trays in the open position, and the tray holders being positioned beneath the first and second covers in the closed position.