Integrated Mixing and Filtering Mechanism for Automated Sample Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation methods in laboratories and industries require manual operation for mixing and filtering, which is time-consuming and often results in incomplete filtering and incompatibility with automatic equipment.
Innovation Solution
An integrated processing mechanism that includes a filtering and ventilating mechanism driven by motors, a uniformly-mixing mechanism, a test tube carrying mechanism, and a jacking mechanism, which allows for automatic and simultaneous mixing and filtering of samples by rotating and moving components to ensure complete filtration without generating negative pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual operation is used for filtering samples, then the equipment complexity is reduced, but the productivity and filtering completeness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mixing mechanism and filtering mechanism into a single integrated device. The mixing rod is positioned within the filtering container, and both functions operate sequentially within the same apparatus, eliminating the need for separate manual mixing and filtering operations while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering container serves multiple functions: it acts as both the mixing chamber and the filtering device. The same container holds the sample during mixing and then filters it through its mesh bottom, reducing the number of separate components needed while enabling automated operation
2Device complexity
If manual operation is used for filtering samples, then the device complexity is reduced, but the filtering completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing rod is positioned within the filtering container, and both functions operate sequentially within the same apparatus, eliminating the need for separate manual mixing and filtering operations while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing operation continues until the sample is uniformly mixed, and then filtering proceeds continuously until completion. The automated operation ensures that neither mixing nor filtering is interrupted, guaranteeing complete filtering without requiring manual monitoring
3Productivity
If automated mixing and filtering mechanism is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing mechanism and filtering mechanism are integrated into a single device structure. The mixing rod rotates within the filtering container, and the container itself serves as the filtering element, reducing the number of separate components needed for automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering container serves multiple functions: it acts as both the mixing chamber and the filtering device. The same container holds the sample during mixing and then filters it through its mesh bottom, reducing the number of separate components needed while enabling automated operation
4Productivity
If automated mixing and filtering mechanism is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the time consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing operation continues until the sample is uniformly mixed, and then filtering proceeds continuously until completion. The automated operation ensures that neither mixing nor filtering is interrupted, guaranteeing complete filtering without requiring manual monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing process is performed completely before filtering begins, ensuring that the sample is uniformly mixed prior to the filtering operation. This preliminary mixing action prevents clogging during filtering and ensures efficient, uninterrupted filtering 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
The mechanism enables efficient and automatic sample preparation, integrating mixing and filtering functions, preventing negative pressure issues and allowing for continuous operation, thus improving workflow efficiency and compatibility with automated systems.
Implementation Method 1
the ventilation needle is inserted into the sample container for ventilation
Implementation Method 2
the uniformly-mixing mechanism has a hollow uniformly-mixing base, and the sample container is accommodated in the hollow uniformly-mixing base and driven by the uniformly-mixing motor to rotate forwardly and reversely
Implementation Method 3
when the filtering hole at a bottom of the sample container is opened, liquid in the container flows downwards, passes through the filtering mesh at the bottom of the container, and drips into a test tube
Data Source
AI summary
A filtering and ventilating mechanism is driven by motors. The filtering mechanism rotates and presses downwards so its pressing surface is against a sample container. A ventilation needle is inserted into the sample container for ventilation. A mixing mechanism is arranged below the filtering mechanism and is driven by a mixing motor. The sample container is accommodated in a seat and is driven by the mixing motor. A test tube carrying mechanism is arranged below the mixing mechanism, and has an accommodating hole for a test tube. A jacking mechanism is arranged below the mixing mechanism, and is driven by a jacking motor. When the jacking mechanism moves upwards, a jacking platform is pressed against the bottom of the test tube, so that the test tube is butted against the bottom of the sample container, and a sample preparation in the sample container is dripped into the test tube.