Mobile Sample Storage Unit for Same-Day Lab Retesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample storage and retrieval systems require significant laboratory space or operator intervention to transport samples to remote locations for re-testing, which is inefficient, especially since many re-tests occur within the same day as initial testing.
Innovation Solution
A mobile sample storage and retrieval unit that automatically maintains analyzed samples near the laboratory for up to a day, equipped with a controller for tracking and retrieving samples as needed, and is refrigerated using external conditioned air to reduce weight and complexity, allowing for efficient re-testing and subsequent transfer to remote storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If samples are stored in remote refrigerated storage systems, then space requirements are reduced and samples are preserved, but operator intervention is required to transport samples and re-testing time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple modular refrigerated racks that can be independently moved. Each rack can be transported separately to different locations within the laboratory, allowing samples needing re-test to be quickly retrieved and returned to the automated sample handling worksystem without requiring full-system relocation or extensive operator intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigerated storage system transitions from a fixed remote location to a mobile configuration. The racks are equipped with wheels or movable bases, enabling dynamic repositioning between remote storage areas and the automated sample handling worksystem. This dynamic capability allows rapid response to re-testing needs while maintaining refrigerated conditions throughout the movement process.
2Quantity of substance
If a large remote refrigerated storage system is used, then sample storage capacity is increased, but laboratory space requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of one large fixed refrigerated storage system, the invention uses multiple smaller modular racks that can be distributed throughout the laboratory. These racks can be stacked or arranged in compact configurations, providing substantial total storage capacity while utilizing vertical space and distributed laboratory areas more efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system utilizes vertical dimension by employing tall, narrow refrigerated racks that can be stacked or positioned vertically. This three-dimensional storage approach maximizes storage capacity within limited laboratory footprint, transforming horizontal space constraints into vertical storage solutions.
3Productivity
If refrigerated storage is provided near the automated sample handling worksystem, then re-testing efficiency is improved, but available space near the worksystem is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerated storage racks are designed to be mobile rather than fixed, allowing them to be positioned near the automated sample handling worksystem only when re-testing is anticipated. When not in use, they can be moved to remote locations to free up valuable space near the worksystem for other high-priority equipment or operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Samples are proactively transferred to mobile refrigerated racks near the worksystem before re-testing is actually needed. The system anticipates re-testing requirements and pre-positions samples in accessible locations, so when re-testing becomes necessary, samples are already nearby and ready for rapid retrieval without consuming permanent space near the worksystem.
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
Increases efficiency in sample re-testing by keeping samples nearby the laboratory for same-day re-testing needs and reduces the need for operator intervention, while minimizing space requirements and optimizing sample handling workflows.
Implementation Method 1
the sample storage and retrieval unit is also adapted to be refrigerated by an external source of conditioned air
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile, thermally insulated storage and retrieval unit for housing tube racks on shelves and having an elevator and conveyor for moving racks between shelves and an exterior loading tray.