Grid-Mounted Actuator Modules for Precise Sample Transport Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory sample distribution systems face challenges in easy assembly and precise mounting of actuator modules, which affects the efficiency and flexibility of transport devices in laboratory automation systems.
Innovation Solution
A transport device with actuator modules mounted in a grid pattern on a support frame using L-shaped support brackets with cross elements and pillar structures, allowing for adjustable and precise positioning, and separate mounting of driving surfaces and actuator modules with magnetic actuators for sample container carriers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If actuator modules are mounted using a complex mounting device with multiple support brackets and alignment features, then the manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is segmented into multiple support brackets (5), each independently mounted to support bars (21) and each providing localized support at grid nodes. This segmentation allows each bracket to be a simple, standardized component while collectively achieving precise positioning of actuator modules through their coordinated arrangement at regular intervals.
2Stability of the object's composition
If actuator modules are firmly fixed in position, then the stability of the transport device improves, but the adaptability and flexibility for reconfiguration decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets (5) are designed as universal mounting elements that can be positioned at various locations along the support bars (21) and can accommodate different actuator module configurations. The standardized interface and grid-based arrangement allow the same mounting structure to support different numbers and arrangements of actuator modules, providing both stable fixation and reconfiguration flexibility.
3Strength
If multiple support brackets are used to hold actuator modules, then the mechanical strength and support stability improve, but the ease of assembly and disassembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets (5) are pre-mounted to the support bars (21) at predetermined positions corresponding to grid nodes before the actuator modules are installed. This preliminary arrangement creates a ready-made, stable support framework that simplifies the subsequent assembly of actuator modules, as they can be directly placed onto the pre-positioned brackets without requiring complex real-time alignment procedures.
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 easy assembly and flexible configuration of transport devices, improving the efficiency and precision of sample container handling in laboratory automation systems by allowing for precise alignment and support of actuator modules and driving surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic actuators being adapted to move sample container carriers placed on said driving surface by applying a magnetic force to said sample containers carriers
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to device for mounting a plurality of actuator modules (3) in a grid pattern to a support frame (2) with support bars (21), each actuator module (3) having a regular polygonal basic shape with three, four or six corners, the device comprising a plurality of support brackets (5) mountable to the support bars (21), wherein each support bracket (5) is provided with a support structure (50) arranged at a node of the grid pattern and having a cross element (55) adapted to support corner regions of neighboring actuator modules (3) at said node. The invention also relates to a transport device (1) comprising a plurality of actuator modules (3) and a device for mounting said plurality of actuator modules (3) in a grid pattern to a support frame (2). Further, the invention relates to a laboratory sample distribution system and to a laboratory automation system comprising a laboratory sample distribution system.