Modular Sample Procurement Device for Extraterrestrial Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a device that can efficiently procure and store geological or extraterrestrial samples in minimal gravity environments and any atmosphere, with the ability to handle multiple samples and prevent cross-contamination.
Innovation Solution
A device with a detachable handle assembly and chamber housing, featuring a trigger mechanism, quick-release pin, and interchangeable sampling chambers with seals, allowing for ambidextrous operation and secure storage of samples in isolated cartridges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple samples are collected in separate chambers, then sample isolation and prevention of cross-contamination is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple chambers and sealing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent chambers, each capable of holding a separate sample cartridge. This segmentation allows each chamber to independently store and protect individual samples, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining overall device functionality through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Sample cartridges are nested within chambers, which are in turn nested within the main device housing. This nested structure allows multiple sampling units to be compactly arranged while maintaining isolation between samples, reducing the overall footprint without sacrificing sample separation
2Ease of operation
If the device is designed for detachable handle and chamber housing, then ease of operation and chamber exchange is improved, but reliability of connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable system where the handle assembly can be detached and reattached to different chamber housings. This dynamic design allows adaptation to different sampling scenarios while maintaining secure connections through standardized interfacing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is designed as a universal component that can interface with multiple types of chamber housings through standardized mounting points and alignment features. This universality enables a single handle to operate with various chamber configurations, improving operational flexibility without compromising connection reliability
3Productivity
If quick-release pin mechanism is used, then productivity and sample procurement speed is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional release mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release pin mechanism is pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage with retention features on the chamber housing. This preliminary positioning allows for rapid one-handed operation where the operator simply needs to depress the release lever, eliminating the need for complex manual disassembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release function is extracted as a separate, dedicated mechanism rather than being integrated into the main fastening system. This extraction allows the release function to be simplified and optimized independently, providing rapid chamber exchange without adding significant complexity to the overall structure
Data Source
AI summary
A sample procurement and retention tool designed for extraterrestrial use. The device is adapted to procure and retain multiple loosely adhered geological samples of various shapes, sizes, and weights. In addition, the device is sized for dexterity optimization, and designed to prevent cross contamination of samples. The device includes a chamber housing detachable from a handle assembly with a portion of the chamber housing being rotatable with respect to the handle assembly. The chamber housing includes a plurality of chambers with at least one chamber having a sample cartridge that can be triggered through the handle assembly. Each sample cartridge stored in the chambers can be triggered to retrieve samples and then the chamber housing can be detached to employ another chamber housing.