Modular Laboratory Extraction Device Using Segmented Profiles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laboratory extraction devices are cumbersome, requiring extensive assembly and transport due to their large size and weight, and lack flexibility for quick setup, modification, and space optimization, making them inefficient for modern laboratory needs.

Innovation Solution

A modular extraction device design utilizing hollow aluminum profiles and detachable plate elements, allowing for easy assembly, modification, and space-efficient configuration, with a focus on lightweight construction and adaptable dimensions, enabling quick setup and integration with other devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional extraction systems are made from heavy panels and assembled in a stationary manner, then structural strength and stability are improved, but assembly time and transport complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The extraction system is divided into modular components (extraction units, partition walls, table units) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The profile elements are segmented into standardized sections with connecting elements, allowing rapid assembly without requiring extensive on-site construction work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components are pre-assembled and pre-configured in the factory before delivery to the installation site. The profile elements come with pre-attached connecting elements, and the extraction units are pre-equipped with necessary components, significantly reducing on-site assembly time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If conventional extraction systems use heavy materials and fixed assembly, then structural stability is improved, but ease of transport and modification deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidease of modification
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The extraction system transitions from a fixed, static structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable modular system. The standardized profile elements and connecting elements enable easy disassembly, relocation, and reconfiguration of extraction units and partition walls to adapt to changing laboratory requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The profile elements and connecting elements are designed as universal components that can be used in various configurations and positions throughout the extraction system. This universality allows the same components to serve multiple functions and enables flexible reconfiguration without requiring specialized parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If multiple cupboards are arranged side by side with partition walls containing controls, then functional organization is improved, but installation area requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional organizationVSAvoidinstallation area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The control elements are relocated from the horizontal partition walls to the vertical profile elements. This dimensional shift allows controls to be integrated into the vertical structure, eliminating the need for additional horizontal partition walls and reducing the overall installation footprint while maintaining functional organization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Ease of operation

If operating elements are located below the tabletop, then accessibility is improved, but transport and installation difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The operating elements located below the tabletop are integrated with the vertical profile elements that form the structural framework. This merging of functional controls with structural components simplifies the overall installation process, as the profile elements serve both structural and functional purposes, reducing the number of separate installation tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3102346B1Modular trigger device
Publication Date: 2024.05.15 LAB CONCEPT GMBH
  • EP3102346B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3102346B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3102346B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a modular trigger device (100), in particular for the laboratory field, comprising a housing which surrounds an area (210) and which comprises lateral walls and a cover wall (180). At least one of the lateral walls comprises a window slide (150). The walls comprise profiled elements (120, 130) between which plate elements are removably arranged. At least one of the profiled elements (130, 140) is designed in multiple parts (profiled arrangement 130) in order to form a vertical channel which is used to receive operating elements of the trigger device (100). At least one lateral wall is designed such that another trigger device (100) can be arranged such that an area (210) is produced which is surrounded by the two trigger devices (100).