Flexible Multi-Rod Sample Receiver for Small-Volume Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample processing systems, particularly for small liquid samples, face challenges in efficiently aspirating and processing multiple samples while maintaining flexibility for further analysis, as they often have rigid arrangements that limit analysis flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A sample receiving device with flexible, rod-shaped sample holding units connected by a bendable connection, allowing for spatial separation and rapid sample acquisition through a translational movement that brings the units into direct contact for sample reception, facilitated by a locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple capillaries are used for sample aspiration and analysis, then continuous flow and sample processing efficiency are improved, but the rigid arrangement limits the flexibility of further analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the sample collection function into multiple separate capillaries (first, second, and third capillaries) that can be independently positioned and configured. Each capillary can be used for different analysis purposes, allowing both efficient multi-sample processing and flexible adaptation to various analysis requirements without being constrained by a fixed rigid arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The capillaries are designed with flexible positioning capabilities, allowing them to be moved and repositioned dynamically. The first capillary can be positioned at different locations relative to the second and third capillaries, enabling the system to adapt its configuration based on the specific analysis task at hand, thus maintaining both productivity and flexibility
2Ease of manufacture
If sample holding units are kept spatially separated, then mechanical stability and ease of manufacture are improved, but rapid sample acquisition requires bringing them into direct contact
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with multiple capillaries in stable, spatially separated positions during manufacture, with predetermined pathways and positioning mechanisms already in place. This preliminary arrangement allows for easy manufacturing and assembly, while the pre-established configuration enables rapid sample acquisition when the capillaries need to be brought into contact, as no complex real-time adjustments are required
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 7~9
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sample-receiving device with a first part (1) and a second part (2), the first part (1) having at least two rod-shaped sample-receiving units (7, 8, 9) which are interconnected via a bendable connection (17) and the ends of which facing away from the bendable connection (17) are spaced apart from each other in an initial state. The second part (2) has a locking device which is designed in such a way that, when the first part (1) is placed with its side facing away from the sample-receiving units (7, 8, 9) onto the second part (2), the bendable connection (17) is bent by the shape of the locking device, and the ends of the at least two sample-receiving devices (7, 8, 9) can be guided towards each other, such that those sides of the at least two sample-receiving units (7, 8, 9) arranged facing in the direction of a sample are arranged directly next to each other and are locked in this position by the locking device, and a single sample can be received in the at least two sample-receiving units (7, 8, 9) or with the at least two sample-receiving units (7, 8, 9).