Mixing Apparatus Head With Multi-Orientation Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing apparatuses lack versatility in accommodating different sizes and orientations of microplates and test tubes, limiting their ability to efficiently mix various sample sizes simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A head designed for coupling with mixing apparatuses, featuring deformable sides and multiple channels of varying diameters and orientations to securely hold microplates and test tubes of different sizes, allowing for simultaneous engagement of multiple test tubes in various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mixing apparatus is designed to accommodate only one type of container (microplate or test tubes), then the structural design is simple, but the versatility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The head is designed with multiple types of channels (vertical channels, horizontal channels, and deformable sides) that can accommodate different container types (microplates and various orientations of test tubes). This multi-functional design allows a single head structure to perform multiple functions, resolving the contradiction between versatility and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The head is segmented into multiple functional regions with different channel types (vertical channels for perpendicular test tubes, horizontal channels for parallel test tubes, and deformable sides for microplates). Each segment is optimized for specific container types, enabling the overall structure to handle diverse samples while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the head uses fixed rigid channels to hold test tubes, then the structural stability is high, but the adaptability to different test tube orientations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The head incorporates both fixed rigid channels (vertical and horizontal) for stable positioning and deformable sides that can dynamically adjust to accommodate different container orientations. The rigid channels provide structural stability while the deformable portions enable adaptability to various test tube orientations and sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the head have different mechanical properties: vertical channels and horizontal channels are rigid for stable positioning, while the sides are deformable for adapting to microplates. This local differentiation of material properties allows the structure to simultaneously maintain stability and achieve adaptability to different orientations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the head is designed with multiple channel types for different container orientations, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head is divided into separate manufacturable segments (vertical channels, horizontal channels, deformable sides) that can be produced using standard manufacturing techniques and then assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with controlled complexity, reducing overall manufacturing difficulty while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The head design uses a universal base structure with integrated channel types that can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled module. By designing the channels and deformable sides as integral parts of the head body, the invention reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the ability to accommodate multiple container types and orientations.
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 efficient and secure mixing of multiple test tubes and microplates of varying sizes and orientations, enhancing the versatility and capability of mixing apparatuses to handle diverse sample sizes and types.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of sides that are deformable and are spaced to permit frictional engagement of a microplate between them
Implementation Method 2
frictional engagement of a microplate between them
Implementation Method 3
at least one vertical channel that is configured to removably secure a test tube to the body so that a longitudinal axis of the test tube orients in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body
Data Source
AI summary
A head that can be coupled with a mixing apparatus includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis and includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. Each of the sides includes a projection. The body is configured to receive a microplate between the sides, which is removably secured to the body by the projections. At least one vertical channel in the body is configured to removably secure a first test tube to the body so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first vertical channel has a first diameter. At least one horizontal channel in the body is configured to removably secure a second test tube so that the longitudinal axis of the tube is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. The first test tube and the second test tube can be coupled to the body at the same time.