Interconnection Module for Adapting Linear Test Tube Containers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laboratory automation systems face challenges in efficiently managing the transfer of biological samples between different testing modules, particularly in varying configurations, leading to increased residence time and incompatibility with the geometry of testing modules.

Innovation Solution

An interconnection module is introduced between the automation system and testing modules, featuring a gripping device, conveyor belts, and moving mechanisms that adapt to different configurations, enabling efficient transfer and processing of linear containers of test tubes, ensuring bidirectional and continuous sample transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional automation system directly transfers test tubes between modules, then the transfer mechanism is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying configurations and geometries of different testing modules

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to testing module geometriesVSAvoidcomplexity of transfer mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A linear container serves as an intermediary component between the automation system and testing modules. The container receives test tubes from the automation system and delivers them to the testing module, acting as a buffer that decouples the two systems. This allows the automation system to operate independently while the linear container adapts to different testing module geometries and configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer system is segmented into distinct functional components: the automation system, the linear container with multiple housings, and the testing module interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the linear container serving as a flexible intermediary that can be configured for different testing module geometries without redesigning the entire system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If test tubes are transferred one by one between automation system and testing module, then the transfer precision is high, but the residence time of containers in the interconnection module increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer speedVSAvoidresidence time of containers

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The linear container is pre-filled with multiple test tubes in sequential housings before being transferred to the testing module. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare a batch of test tubes in advance, enabling continuous operation of the testing module without waiting for individual tube transfers, thereby reducing the residence time of containers in the interconnection module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system maintains continuous useful action by having the linear container continuously supplied with test tubes from the automation system while simultaneously delivering tubes to the testing module. The conveyor mechanism ensures continuous movement and transfer, eliminating idle time and keeping the system in a state of continuous productive operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the automation system is designed for a specific configuration, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot interface with testing modules of varying configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface compatibilityVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The linear container is designed as a universal interface component that can accommodate different testing module configurations and geometries. The standardized container design with multiple housings allows it to interface with various testing modules while maintaining consistent operation procedures, thus providing adaptability without sacrificing ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3120156B1Apparatus for moving and testing biological samples

Publication Date: 2021.11.17 INPECO HOLDING LTD

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AI summary

An apparatus (80) for moving and testing biological samples is described, comprising a laboratory automation system (2) for moving transporting devices (5) of single test tubes (4) containing biological material samples, a testing module (3) of said biological material samples contained in said test tubes (4) adapted to receive linear containers (40) of a plurality of test tubes (4) arranged in a series of consecutive housings (41) along a line (42), and an interconnection module (1) between said laboratory automation system (2) and said testing module (3).