Dosing Device with Cylindrical Display for Syringe Volume Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual dispensing of small volumes from syringes in laboratory settings is error-prone due to the difficulty in setting the correct plunger depression distance, which varies with syringe size and type, leading to potential incorrect dosing series.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held dispenser with a setting mechanism that includes a cylindrical wall section with a tabular list visible through a slot-shaped opening, allowing easy selection of the correct dosing volume for different syringe types, and a latch mechanism that ensures precise plunger depression distance based on the setting, reducing human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If syringes of various sizes and types are used to increase versatility, then the device can handle different dosing requirements, but the complexity of setting the correct dosing volume increases and error susceptibility rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a optical copy (display element showing tabular list) to present the complex setting information in a simplified visual format. The display element optically reproduces the dosing volume information from the setting mechanism, allowing users to easily read and interpret the correct settings without directly interacting with the complex mechanical setting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The display element acts as an intermediary between the setting mechanism and the user. It translates the mechanical setting state into a visual representation that is easier to interpret, reducing the cognitive load and error risk when selecting dosing volumes for different syringe types.
2Loss of information
If guide tables are used to specify correct setting steps, then dosing volume information is provided, but the risk of incorrect settings increases due to human error in reading the table
Solution Approach 1:
The display element provides visual feedback that is directly linked to the setting mechanism state. As the setting changes, the display automatically updates to show the corresponding dosing volume, creating a closed-loop feedback system that reduces reading errors and confirms the correct setting to the user.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring users to read and interpret a static guide table, the system creates a dynamic optical copy of the relevant dosing information that is automatically updated based on the current setting, making the information more reliable and harder to misinterpret.
3Loss of information
If manual reading of guide tables is required, then dosing information can be obtained, but time is lost and errors may occur in reading and applying the correct values
Solution Approach 1:
The display element automatically presents the correct dosing information based on the current setting mechanism state, eliminating the need for users to manually consult guide tables. The system serves itself by automatically displaying the relevant information, saving time and reducing errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The real-time visual feedback from the display element eliminates the delay between setting the mechanism and confirming the dosing volume, allowing users to quickly verify and adjust settings without consulting external reference materials.
Data Source
AI summary
A dosing device comprises a housing. The housing has a slot-shaped opening in the axial direction. The respective region of a setting cylinder located inside the housing can be seen from the exterior through the opening. The setting cylinder can be radially rotated or set by way of a setting wheel. Quantitative indications of the discharge volumes for various syringe types at various settings are arranged in columns on the setting cylinder in the form of a table. The cylinder is oriented relative to the window in the housing such that at a given angular setting of the cylinder the correct discharge volume is visible in the window for every syringe type.