Electrolyte Analyzer Nozzle Locking Prevents Reagent Contamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrolyte analyzing devices face contamination risks during reagent replacement due to human error, as the suction nozzle can come into contact with incorrect reagents when the device is not powered on, leading to incorrect measurements and reagent wastage.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates a locking mechanism that secures the suction nozzle during reagent container replacement when the device is off, and an unlocking mechanism that allows reagent suction only when powered on, ensuring correct reagent contact and preventing contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the device is not powered on during reagent replacement, then power consumption is reduced and operation continuity is improved, but contamination risk increases due to inability to control the suction nozzle position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is activated in advance (when power is turned off) to secure the suction nozzle at a safe position away from reagent containers. This preliminary action prevents contamination before any replacement operation occurs, while still allowing the device to remain in a low-power state with continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the power supply state and the suction nozzle position control. It provides a mechanical safeguard that operates independently of the electronic control system, ensuring the suction nozzle cannot contact reagents even when the device is not fully powered on.
2Ease of operation
If the suction nozzle is always accessible during reagent replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination risk increases due to potential contact with incorrect reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism applies a counter-action by mechanically restricting the suction nozzle movement to a safe position during reagent replacement. This preliminary restriction prevents the harmful action of contact with incorrect reagents, while the mechanism can be easily unlocked when proper replacement is needed.
3Reliability
If the locking mechanism is always engaged, then contamination prevention is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to inability to perform replacement when device is off
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static always-locked state to a dynamic state that adapts to operational conditions. It is engaged during low-power/standby states to prevent contamination, but can be easily disengaged when reagent replacement is required, providing both protection and operational flexibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution prevents contamination even when reagents are replaced with the device off, allowing uninterrupted operation and reducing reagent wastage by ensuring correct reagent use.
Implementation Method 1
a suction nozzle (6) that suctions a reagent from the reagent container (101)
Implementation Method 2
a locking mechanism (301) that is fitted with the nozzle support part (203) moved to the reagent container replacement position and fixes the nozzle support part (203) at the reagent container replacement position
Implementation Method 3
an unlocking mechanism (302) that releases fitting of the nozzle support part (203) and the locking mechanism (301) in a power-on state
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an electrolyte analyzing device that prevents contamination caused by contacting different reagents by a suction nozzle when reagent replacement is performed. The electrolyte analyzing device includes a nozzle support part 203 coupled to a suction nozzle 6 and movable between a reagent container replacement position and a reagent suction position; a locking mechanism 301 fitted with the nozzle support part 203 moved to the reagent container replacement position and fixes the nozzle support part 203 at the reagent container replacement position; and an unlocking mechanism 302 that releases fitting of the nozzle support part 203 and the locking mechanism 301 in a power-on state. When a reagent container 101 satisfies a predetermined condition, the unlocking mechanism 302 is controlled to release the fitting between the nozzle support part 203 and the locking mechanism 301, so that the nozzle support part 203 moves to the reagent suction position.