Magnetic Puck for Clinical Analyzer Sample Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical locking mechanisms in laboratory automation systems for transporting patient samples, such as spring-based apparatuses, deteriorate over time, leading to insecure holding of sample containers during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic puck system with an embedded electromagnet and a ferromagnetic base is used to securely hold sample containers, eliminating the need for mechanical locking mechanisms and providing a reliable attachment method with adjustable magnetic force based on sensor inputs or external signals, and featuring a rechargeable battery for power and induction charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-based mechanical locking mechanism is used to hold the sample container, then the sample container can be securely held during transport, but the mechanism deteriorates over time due to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the spring-based mechanical locking mechanism with an electromagnetic actuator that uses magnetic fields to hold and release the sample container. This substitution eliminates mechanical contact and wear between moving parts, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining reliable holding and extending service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the ferromagnetic base from the sample container and replaces it with a ferromagnetic layer that can be magnetized by the electromagnetic actuator. This extraction and replacement allows the holding function to be achieved through magnetic fields rather than mechanical springs, eliminating wear while maintaining reliability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If an electromagnetic actuator with ferromagnetic base is used to hold the sample container, then mechanical wear is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electromagnetic actuator, ferromagnetic base, and sample container holding mechanism into a single integrated puck structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device, thereby resolving the contradiction between extending service life and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The puck is designed to perform multiple functions: transporting the sample container, holding the container via electromagnetic attraction, and providing a interface for the robotic arm. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby simplifying the device while maintaining extended service life.
3Extent of automation
If a robotic arm is used to remove the sample container from the puck, then automated sample handling is achieved, but the force applied may damage the sample container
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an electromagnetic actuator that can dynamically adjust the holding force on the sample container. The actuator can apply sufficient force to securely hold the container during transport, then release it gently when the robotic arm needs to remove it. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between automation and preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical locking mechanisms with an electromagnetic field-based holding system. This substitution allows for precise control of the holding force and eliminates the risk of mechanical damage that could occur with rigid mechanical locks, thereby enabling safe automated handling.
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
The magnetic puck system ensures secure and reliable transportation of sample containers without mechanical wear, maintaining consistent holding force throughout the process and extending battery life through adjustable power usage and efficient recharging methods.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet embedded in the puck for securing the sample container to the puck using the ferromagnetic base
Implementation Method 2
The embedded magnet is an electromagnet and the puck further comprises a battery for powering the electromagnet
Implementation Method 3
a ferromagnetic base connected to a bottom portion of the sample container
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A system for transporting a sample in a clinical analysis system includes a sample container holding the sample, a ferromagnetic base connected to a bottom portion of the sample container, and a puck. The puck is used for transporting the sample container in the clinical analysis system. The puck comprises an embedded magnet for securing the sample container to the puck using the ferromagnetic base.