Magnetic Air Sampler Plate Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air sampling systems require tool-based removal and reinstallation of petri/agar plate assemblies, which complicates cleaning and sterilization processes, risking contamination and increasing operational time.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic assembly mechanism with embedded magnets in the top plate assembly and alignment pockets on the air sampler facilitates tool-free attachment and detachment of the petri plate assembly, ensuring secure and accurate positioning without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical attachment mechanisms are used to secure the petri plate assembly, then the assembly is firmly held in position during sampling, but the removal and reinstallation process requires tools and increases operational time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment mechanisms (screws, clips, or latches) with a magnetic attachment system. Magnets embedded in the sampler's plate holder securely hold the petri plate assembly during sampling, but allow for tool-free removal by simply pulling the assembly away. This substitution eliminates the need for tools while maintaining secure holding during operation, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and time loss.
2Reliability
If the petri plate assembly requires tool-based removal, then secure attachment is achieved, but cleaning and sterilization processes are complicated and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical attachment systems with magnetic attachment, the patent enables the petri plate assembly to be easily removed and reinstalled without tools. This facilitates frequent cleaning and sterilization of the plate holder component, improving the ease of manufacturing and maintenance while maintaining reliable attachment during sampling through sufficient magnetic force.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple components are used to secure the petri plate, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the assembly mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment system replaces complex mechanical positioning and securing mechanisms with a simpler magnetic field-based system. The magnets provide both attachment security and positioning guidance through magnetic attraction, reducing the number of components needed while maintaining positioning accuracy. This substitution directly addresses the contradiction by simplifying the device complexity while preserving manufacturing precision.
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 enables rapid, contamination-free removal and reinstallation of the petri plate assembly, reducing operational time and simplifying the cleaning and sterilization process, while accommodating various agar plate diameters through adjustable mounts.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnet disposed within the top plate assembly and/or the top of an air sampler to facilitate the secure attachment and detachment of the top plate assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An air sampler mechanism by which the entirety of the petri plate assembly of the air sampler may be easily removed without tools is described. The mechanism employs at least one magnet which is preferably disposed within the top plate assembly of the air sampler instrument. The magnets of the mechanism are configured to maintain the top plate assembly firmly in position during use while facilitating easy removal by an operator or manager. Indexing features are preferably present, which ensure proper alignment and positioning of the top plate assembly when reattached for use.