Modular Flowcell Unit With Universal Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow-cells are specialized for individual sensor types, making it difficult to find a compatible design for multiple sensor variants, which complicates manufacturing and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular flow-cell unit with a mechanical fixing interface and fluid interface that allows connection with other modular units, enabling a chain of units to be formed for various sensor types, including pH, ORP, chlorine, and dissolved oxygen sensors, with optional electric connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flow-cells are specialized for individual sensor types, then sensor compatibility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow-cell unit is designed with a universal mechanical fixing interface that can accommodate multiple sensor types (pH, ORP, chlorine, dissolved oxygen sensors) through a single standardized connection mechanism, eliminating the need for specialized flow-cells for each sensor variant
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flow-cell variants are produced for different sensor types, then sensor compatibility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single flow-cell design with standardized interfaces enables production of one universal unit type that works with multiple sensor variants, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to producing separate specialized flow-cells for each sensor type
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular units are connected in chain, then system flexibility is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow-cell system is divided into independent modular units, each with standardized mechanical fixing interfaces that enable simple connection and disconnection, allowing flexible assembly of chains for different sensor configurations without complex connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized mechanical fixing interface serves multiple functions: mechanical attachment, fluid connection, and electrical connection, simplifying the overall connection structure while enabling flexible modular assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A modular flow-cell unit comprising a mechanical fixing interface configured for receiving a further modular flow-cell unit; and a fluid interface configured for receiving fluid from the further modular flow-cell unit or for transferring fluid to the further modular flow-cell unit.