Helical Track Container Agitation for Consistent Sample Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for agitating fluid samples in automated analyzers, such as vibratory mixers, often result in inconsistent mixing and undesirable aeration, leading to inaccurate or unreliable diagnostic results.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a carrier with a removable container that moves linearly within a cage structure featuring an internal helical track, utilizing track follower members and a return member to induce both linear and rotational motion, ensuring consistent agitation through controlled actuation and spring-assisted return forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vibratory mixers are used to agitate samples, then mixing action is provided, but mixing consistency is poor and aeration occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a circular orbital motion path for the sample container, replacing linear or random vibratory motion. The container moves in a defined circular trajectory, ensuring consistent mixing action without the erratic movements that cause aeration. This curved path geometry provides smooth, reproducible agitation that maintains sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus implements periodic reciprocating linear motion combined with rotation to generate the circular orbital path. The motion follows a regular cycle of forward movement, rotation, return movement, and reverse rotation, creating consistent periodic agitation that ensures reliable mixing without introducing air bubbles through random or irregular movements.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical mixing apparatus are used, then agitation is provided, but mixing is inconsistent and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically combines two motion types - linear reciprocating movement and rotational movement - to create a circular orbital path. This dynamic combination ensures the sample container follows a precise circular trajectory, providing consistent and reliable mixing action that overcomes the inconsistency of simple vibratory or linear shaking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample container acts as an intermediary element that translates the combined linear and rotational motions into effective circular orbital agitation of the sample. This intermediary mechanism ensures that the mixing action is consistent and reliable, as the circular path geometry inherently provides smooth, reproducible motion that reliably mixes samples without variation.
3Speed
If linear actuating force is applied to move carrier, then linear displacement is achieved, but return motion requires additional mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a spring-loaded follower mechanism that automatically returns the carrier to its initial position after linear displacement. The spring stores energy during the forward movement phase and automatically releases it to propel the carrier back, eliminating the need for separate return actuators or complex control systems. This self-service approach maintains high displacement speed while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the natural tendency of spring compression (which resists motion) into a beneficial return force. During forward displacement, the spring is compressed and stores energy; during return motion, this stored energy is released to actively propel the carrier backward. This converts what could be seen as a resistive force into a useful driving force for return motion, simplifying the overall system.
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 provides consistent and reliable mixing of fluid samples, reducing the risk of aeration and improving the reproducibility of diagnostic results in automated analyzers.
Implementation Method 1
a return member, such as a spring, installed between a bottom surface of the carrier and a distal surface of the apparatus. The return member is configured to be compressed when the carrier is displaced toward the distal surface in response to a linear actuating force, and to apply a return force to the carrier, which causes the carrier to be displaced away from the distal surface when the linear actuating force is removed or relaxed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A linear actuator member (128) applies a vertical force to a vessel (112) or to a holding apparatus in which a vessel (112) is contained. A linear to angular motion constraining member such as a cage structure (114) having a helical track (115) translates linearly directed force and motion applied by the linear actuator member (128) into a combined linear and rotational motion of the vessel (112). The combined vertical and rotational motion of the vessel (112) in response to the vertical force is repeatable according to a predefined agitation pattern for mixing components in the vessel (112).