Laboratory Device Coupling Interfaces for Single Cable Power and Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory devices require separate power and data cables for each unit, leading to cluttered workspaces and safety concerns when multiple devices are used, as well as inefficient handling and operation.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory device with a housing featuring coupling interfaces that allow for both power and information transfer between devices, eliminating the need for multiple cables by enabling connection through a single power and data cable, and incorporating features like magnetic coupling elements and presence sensors for secure and intuitive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate power and data cables are used for each laboratory device, then each device can be independently powered and controlled, but the workspace becomes cluttered and handling becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate cables (power cable and data cable) into a single integrated cable that provides both power supply and data communication functions. This merging eliminates the clutter of multiple cables while maintaining all necessary connections between laboratory devices and the control unit, directly resolving the contradiction between reliable power supply and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single cable is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a power transmission medium and a data communication channel. This universal cable replaces the need for separate dedicated power and data cables, reducing workspace clutter and simplifying handling while ensuring reliable operation of laboratory devices.
2Power
If multiple power connection cables are laid across the workspace, then each device receives adequate power, but the workspace becomes disordered and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging power transmission and data communication into a single cable, the patent reduces the number of cables traversing the workspace. This consolidation maintains adequate power delivery to each laboratory device while eliminating the disordered arrangement of multiple cables, thereby reducing safety hazards such as tripping risks and cable entanglement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate wiring is provided for each laboratory device, then each device can be independently operated, but the complexity of cable management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal cable design maintains device independence by providing both power and data communication capabilities in a single connection. Each laboratory device can still be independently operated and controlled through this unified cable interface, eliminating the need for separate power and data cable management while preserving full functional independence of each device.
4Reliability
If multiple cables are used for power and data connection, then reliable communication and power supply are ensured, but the number of connection points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power transmission and data communication functions into a single cable connection point at each laboratory device. This consolidation maintains reliable power supply and communication by integrating both functions within one connector, thereby reducing the number of connection points from two (separate power and data cables) to one, simplifying the overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is concerned with improvements in the technical field of laboratory devices. To this end, what is proposed, inter alia, is a laboratory device (1) that has, on its housing (2), at least one coupling interface (3) and at least one mating coupling interface (4) compatible with the coupling interface (3). The coupling interface (3) and the mating coupling interface (4) are configured to transfer power and/or to transfer information.