Modular Sample Analysis System with Rail Transport
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated sample analysis systems are bulky, non-expandable, and inefficient due to their restrictive modular structure, leading to wasted resources and limited analysis speed, as they require multiple complete systems connected via pipelines, which restricts the freedom of component combination and expansion.
Innovation Solution
A sample analysis system featuring independent nodes for sample distribution, reagent distribution, and measurement, connected via a rail device under control of a control device, allowing for free combination and expansion, with cuvettes serving as carriers and a blending mechanism for efficient sample and reagent mixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple independent and complete analysis systems are connected via pipelines to achieve higher analysis speed, then the analysis speed is improved, but the system size becomes too large and structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the analysis system into multiple independent functional modules (sample distribution module, reagent distribution module, incubation module, measurement module) that can operate separately but cooperate through a shared rail conveyance system. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while reducing overall system complexity compared to multiple complete systems
Solution Approach 2:
The rail conveyance system serves as a universal platform that transports both samples and reagents between different functional modules. This multi-functional conveyance mechanism eliminates the need for separate pipeline systems for each module, reducing system size while maintaining high analysis speed through concurrent operations
2Reliability
If components are designed with a complete set of solutions forming an indivisible structure, then the system can operate normally, but the system becomes non-expandable and component resources are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent functional modules that can be added, removed, or reconfigured on the rail platform. Each module (sample distribution, reagent distribution, incubation, measurement) operates independently with its own functional components, allowing the system to maintain reliable operation while enabling flexible expansion and adaptation to different analysis needs
Solution Approach 2:
The rail conveyance system provides a dynamic platform where functional modules can be moved, added, or repositioned based on changing analysis requirements. This dynamic configuration capability allows the system to adapt to different sample types, analysis speeds, and functional needs without requiring a complete system redesign, thereby maintaining both reliability and expandability
3Adaptability or versatility
If sample distribution and measurement functions are integrated in a complete analysis system, then the system can perform complete analysis, but the system cannot expand freely and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The analysis system is divided into separate functional modules (sample distribution, reagent distribution, incubation, measurement) that can be independently maintained and repaired. Each module has its own functional components and can be serviced without affecting other modules, significantly easing maintenance difficulties while preserving complete analysis functionality through modular integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts critical functional components into separate, removable modules that can be independently accessed for maintenance. For example, the measurement module and sample distribution module are separated entities that can be removed or accessed independently, allowing maintenance personnel to service specific components without disassembling the entire system, thereby easing maintenance while maintaining functional completeness
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~2B
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The present invention relates to the technical field of automated analysis, and provides a sample analysis system and a control method for the same and a sample analysis method. The sample analysis system includes: a control device; a rail device for carrying cuvettes under control of the control device; at least one independent sample distribution node arranged on the rail device for distributing samples to the cuvettes, the independent sample distribution node being used for sample aspiration, transfer, and discharge; and at least two independent reagent distribution and measurement nodes arranged on the rail device for distributing test reagents to the cuvettes and measuring the mixture liquid in the cuvettes, the independent reagent distribution and measurement nodes being used for reagent aspiration, transfer, and discharge and reagent-sample mixture liquid measurement. Using cuvettes as the medium and employing independent sample distribution nodes and reagent distribution and measurement nodes that are combined and connected via rails, a fully automated analysis system with high freedom and high expandability is provided.