Filter Plate for Hematology Analyzer Particle Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hematology analyzers face clogging issues due to oversized particles, such as coring particles, which can delay or stop the operation of the instrument as these particles can pass through small apertures in the flow cell, causing blockages.
Innovation Solution
A filtering device is positioned proximate to the chamber in the hematology analyzer, featuring a plate with a plurality of apertures that prevents oversized particles from passing through while allowing smaller particles to be analyzed, thereby reducing the likelihood of clogging and ensuring continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a small aperture flow cell is used for particle analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but oversized particles can pass through and cause clogging
Solution Approach 1:
A filter plate with multiple apertures is introduced as an intermediary component between the sample container and the flow cell. This filter plate captures oversized particles (coring particles) that are generated during sample aspiration, preventing them from reaching and clogging the small aperture flow cell while allowing smaller analyzable particles to pass through to the flow cell for analysis.
2Reliability
If the flow cell aperture is enlarged to prevent clogging, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration function is segmented from the flow cell by introducing a separate filter plate component. The filter plate contains multiple apertures sized to capture oversized particles, while the flow cell maintains its small aperture design for precise particle analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
3Reliability
If a filter is added to remove oversized particles, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter plate serves multiple functions: it filters oversized particles from the sample stream, provides structural support for the aperture array, and can be easily removed and replaced for maintenance. By consolidating these functions into a single component, the design minimizes overall system complexity while achieving the desired reliability improvement.
4Productivity
If the filter plate is positioned close to the chamber, then productivity is improved by preventing clogging early, but ease of operation deteriorates due to access difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The filter plate is designed as a removable intermediary component that can be easily accessed and replaced without disassembling the entire instrument. This design allows the filter to be positioned optimally close to the sample chamber for effective early filtration while maintaining ease of access for routine maintenance and replacement.
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
The filtering device effectively blocks oversized particles, preventing clogging of the sample analyzing system and ensuring uninterrupted operation of the hematology analyzer by screening out contaminants early in the fluidic path, allowing for easy replacement and maintenance without requiring the instrument to go offline.
Implementation Method 1
The filtering device is configured to prevent at least some of oversized particles from passing therethrough while enabling particles to be analyzed to pass therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
A filtering device is provided to an analyzing instrument to block the passage of oversized particles that may otherwise clog the aperture of a sample analyzing device. The filtering device can be arranged to be proximate to the mixing chamber. In certain examples, the filtering device is placed at or adjacent an output port of the mixing chamber.