Evaporation-Controlling Inserts for Fluid Mixing Platforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automated processes, there is a need for a compact and space-efficient solution that can both move and agitate fluid containers to various positions within an instrument, as separate apparatuses for movement and agitation are impractical due to space limitations and frequent agitation requirements.
Innovation Solution
A fluid container mixing apparatus featuring a container support platform, indexing drive system, and vortex drive system, allowing for independent and simultaneous powered movement and agitation of containers to specific positions and orbital paths, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate apparatuses are used for moving and agitating fluid containers, then each function can be performed independently, but the instrument occupies excessive space and becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the container moving apparatus and container agitation apparatus into a single integrated system. The support platform serves dual purposes: it positions containers for access by processing modules and simultaneously agitates container contents through orbital motion, eliminating the need for separate apparatuses and reducing instrument footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The support platform is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a positioning mechanism for container access and as an agitation device. By enabling the same platform to perform both movement and agitation functions, the system achieves space efficiency while maintaining operational independence of both functions
2Device complexity
If a single location is used for container access, then module arrangement is simplified, but frequent container movement between locations is required
Solution Approach 1:
The single container access location is designed to serve multiple purposes: it allows processing modules to access containers and simultaneously enables agitation of container contents. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate agitation locations, reducing container movement requirements and associated time losses
3Device complexity
If manual container handling is used, then apparatus complexity is reduced, but productivity and precision of automated processes decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The support platform automatically performs both positioning and agitation functions without requiring separate manual or automated apparatuses. The integrated design allows the system to serve itself by combining multiple functions in a single mechanism, maintaining simplicity while enhancing productivity through automated dual-function operation
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
Enables efficient movement and agitation of fluid containers, maintaining solutes in solution or suspensions, and reducing the need for multiple apparatuses, thus optimizing space and operational efficiency within automated systems.
Implementation Method 1
the container support platform is configured to be movable in an orbital path about an orbital center
Implementation Method 2
The indexing drive system is configured to effect powered indexing movement of the container support platform
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus configured for mixing the contents of one or more fluid containers includes a fluid container support platform configured to hold one or more fluid containers. The fluid container support platform is configured to index the container to one or more specified locations and to be moved in an orbital path about an orbital center independently of the rotation about the central axis of rotation. The apparatus further includes an indexing drive system configured to effect indexing movement of the container support platform and a vortex drive system configured to effect powered orbital movement of the container support platform about the orbital center. An evaporation limiting insert placed within containers reduces exposure of the fluid contents of the container to atmospheric air, thereby reducing susceptibility of the fluid contents to evaporation.