Dual Operation Unit Sample Analysis Apparatus with Transport Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analysis apparatuses have limitations in throughput and range of applications due to the presence of only one operation unit, which restricts their efficiency and versatility in drug discovery screening processes.
Innovation Solution
A sample analysis support apparatus is designed with two operation units and a transport unit that allows for the movement of these units between a sample holder and a tip holder, enabling improved throughput and broader application range by allowing for simultaneous sample collection and substance provision using interchangeable tips with varying sizes and functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If only one operation unit is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the throughput and range of applications deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single transport unit that can support multiple operation units (first operation unit and second operation unit) to perform different operations (sample collection, substance provision) on the same sample holder, thereby improving throughput and application range without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the operation functions into separate operation units (first operation unit for one type of operation, second operation unit for another type of operation), each with interchangeable tips, allowing independent optimization of each unit while sharing common transport and control infrastructure
2Adaptability or versatility
If only one operation unit is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the range of applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transport unit is designed with universal capability to support multiple types of operation units through standardized mounting interfaces, enabling the same transport mechanism to handle diverse operations (collection, provision, analysis) across different samples and applications
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration by allowing interchangeable tips to be attached and detached from operation units based on the specific application requirements, enabling the apparatus to adapt its functionality for different sample types and analytical goals without permanent structural changes
3Productivity
If multiple operation units are provided, then the throughput is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple operation units under a single shared transport unit and control system, allowing coordinated operation of multiple units to process multiple samples or perform multiple operations simultaneously, thereby improving throughput while avoiding the complexity of completely separate independent systems
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation units are provided, then the range of applications is broadened, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each operation unit is designed with universal tip compatibility, allowing the same operation unit to perform different functions by simply changing the attached tip, thereby broadening application range without requiring dedicated specialized hardware for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A sample analysis support apparatus includes a sample region in which a sample is to be disposed, a tip region in which a tip is to be disposed, a first operation unit capable of an operation on the sample using the tip, the tip being attachable to and detachable from the first operation unit, a second operation unit capable of an operation on the sample using the tip, the tip being attachable to and detachable from the second operation unit, a transport unit configured to support each of the first operation unit and the second operation unit moveably between the tip region and the sample region, and a movement controller capable of controlling the transport unit to move each of the first operation unit and the second operation unit between the tip region and the sample region.