Tool-Free Latching Rack for Sample Distribution Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample distribution systems face challenges in quickly and toollessly connecting and disconnecting racks from rack carriages, especially in confined spaces, which affects the accuracy and ease of manipulating racks within the system.
Innovation Solution
A rack apparatus with a latching device that allows for a tool-free, secure connection and disconnection between the rack and rack carriage using complementary latching elements and a constraining force, enabling relative motion for loosening, which can be translational, rotational, or a combination of motions, and is designed for ergonomic handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latching device with complementary latching elements and force elements is used to connect the rack and rack carriage, then the connection strength and stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching device is segmented into complementary components: latching elements (bolts and grooves) distributed at multiple positions, and force elements (springs) that apply constraining forces independently. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable connection through distributed engagement points while keeping each individual component simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching device merges multiple functions into a single integrated mechanism: the latching elements provide both positioning and locking functions, while the force elements simultaneously apply constraining forces and enable tool-free operation. This merging reduces the need for separate complex mechanisms while maintaining connection reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a latching device requiring tool-free release is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection may worsen due to potential loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The latching device incorporates dynamic elements including movable latching bolts that can shift position and spring elements that apply continuous constraining forces. The system transitions between latched and unlatched states through relative motion, allowing tool-free operation while maintaining reliable connection during the latched state through the continuous action of the force elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The force elements (springs) automatically apply constraining forces to maintain the latched connection without requiring external intervention. The system serves itself by using the spring force to keep the latching elements engaged, ensuring reliable connection while allowing easy release when relative motion is applied.
3Reliability
If multiple latching bolts and grooves are used to ensure secure connection, then the manufacturing precision requirements increase, but the connection strength is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is segmented into multiple discrete latching points (bolts and grooves) distributed across the rack-rack carriage interface. This segmentation allows each individual latching point to have relaxed tolerance requirements while the cumulative effect of multiple points provides overall connection strength and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of connection distribution from a single precision-critical interface to multiple distributed interfaces. By spreading the connection requirements across several latching points, the manufacturing precision requirement for each individual point is reduced while maintaining overall connection reliability.
4Measurement precision
If the rack and rack carriage are connected tightly without degrees of freedom, then the manipulation accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to reduced flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed to be dynamically switchable between two states: a tightly latched state that provides high manipulation accuracy by eliminating degrees of freedom, and an easily releasable state that allows quick disconnection through relative motion. The dynamic nature of the latching mechanism allows the system to transition between these states as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical fastening mechanisms with a simplified latching system that uses complementary geometric elements (bolts and grooves) combined with elastic force elements. This substitution maintains tight connection when latched while enabling easy release, improving both accuracy and ease of operation compared to traditional mechanical fasteners.
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
Enables fast, accurate manipulation of racks within the sample distribution system with high precision and ease, allowing for efficient operation even in tight spaces without the need for tools, while maintaining stability and compatibility with various sample sizes and system configurations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one force element for application of a constraining force, whereby a latching connection can be produced or released by a relative motion between the rack carriage and the rack opposite the constraining force
Data Source
AI summary
A rack device for a sample distribution system includes a rack having receptacles for sample carriers and a rack carriage. The rack carriage and the rack can be solidly connected to one another by a latching device that can be released without the use of tools.