Laboratory Module Magnetic Coupling Enhancement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory sample distribution systems face inefficiencies in magnetic coupling between modules, limiting energy efficiency and scalability.
Innovation Solution
The module incorporates magnetic coupling elements, such as ferromagnetic bars and magnetic coupling protrusions, to enhance magnetic field strength and coupling between adjacent modules, allowing for increased energy efficiency and flexible scaling by minimizing gaps and using magnetically high-permeable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modules are assembled together to form a transport plane, then the system scalability and flexibility are improved, but the magnetic coupling between adjacent modules deteriorates due to gaps between modules
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic coupling elements are introduced as intermediary components between adjacent modules to bridge the magnetic field gap. These elements extend from the ferromagnetic cores across the module boundary into the gap region, creating a continuous magnetic flux path that maintains strong coupling despite physical separation between modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling elements extend in the spatial dimension across the module boundary, transforming the coupling mechanism from a planar interface coupling to a three-dimensional flux path that bridges the gap. This dimensional extension allows magnetic field lines to continue smoothly across module boundaries rather than terminating at the interface.
2Extent of automation
If electro-magnetic actuators are used to move sample container carriers, then the transport automation is improved, but the energy efficiency deteriorates due to weak magnetic coupling between ferromagnetic cores
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic coupling elements serve as mediators that enhance the magnetic field strength between ferromagnetic cores, reducing the energy required by electro-magnetic actuators to move sample container carriers. The elements concentrate and direct magnetic flux, making the actuation more efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling elements change the magnetic field parameters (strength and distribution) in the gap region, creating a more efficient magnetic circuit that reduces energy losses and improves the overall energy efficiency of the electro-magnetic actuation system.
3Reliability
If ferromagnetic cores are positioned adjacent to outer edges of modules, then the magnetic coupling to neighboring modules can be enhanced, but the magnetic field strength deteriorates due to gaps between adjacent modules
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic coupling elements positioned at outer edges act as intermediaries that extend the magnetic field from ferromagnetic cores into the gap region toward neighboring modules. This extension maintains magnetic field strength across the module boundary without requiring the cores themselves to be in direct contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling elements are pre-positioned in the gap region before modules are assembled, creating a ready-made magnetic flux path that immediately enhances coupling when modules are brought together, eliminating the need for precise alignment or post-assembly adjustments.
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 significantly increases energy efficiency and flexibility in laboratory sample distribution systems by improving magnetic coupling between modules, enabling efficient transport of sample containers across a common transport plane.
Implementation Method 1
adjacent ferromagnetic cores are magnetically coupled to each other by respective magnetic coupling elements
Implementation Method 2
Each electro-magnetic actuator comprises a ferromagnetic core, wherein adjacent ferromagnetic cores are magnetically coupled to each other
Implementation Method 3
The electro-magnetic actuators are adapted to move sample container carriers on top of the transport plane by applying a magnetic force to the sample container carriers
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a module (105, 105a) for a laboratory sample distribution system (100), to a laboratory sample distribution system comprising such modules, and to a laboratory automation system (5) comprising such a laboratory sample distribution system. Module (105, 105a) comprises a transport plane (110, 110a) to support sample container carriers (140), each sample container carrier comprising at least one magnetically active device, the module further comprising a number of electro-magnetic actuators (120, 120a), each electro-magnetic actuator comprising a ferromagnetic core (125), magnetic coupling elements (126) to magnetically couple adjacent ferromagnetic cores to each other, and magnetic coupling enhancement means for increasing magnetic coupling to adjacent modules, the magnetic coupling enhancment menas comprising contact surfaces (127, 127a) and/or magnetic coupling protrusions (128, 128a).