Modular Sample Rack With Interlocking Clamps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample container handling systems lack a comprehensive solution for securely and efficiently managing sample tubes and cups of varying sizes during automated testing processes, leading to potential damage and misidentification issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular rack system with interchangeable components, including a clamp insert and stop insert, designed to accommodate different sample container sizes, featuring self-centering mechanisms, drainage, and identification features to prevent misplacement and ensure secure handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed rack design is used for sample containers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate sample containers of varying sizes securely
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into modular components including a body, clamp insert, and stop insert that can be assembled and disassembled. The clamp insert contains multiple clamps of different sizes that can be selectively positioned, allowing the rack to adapt to various sample container dimensions without requiring a completely different rack design for each container type.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism incorporates movable and adjustable elements that can be repositioned along the rack body. The clamps can be adjusted to different positions and orientations to securely hold sample containers of varying sizes, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adaptable one.
2Reliability
If sample containers are handled without secure clamping, then the handling process is simpler and faster, but sample containers may become misidentified or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The stop insert is positioned in advance within the rack body to prevent sample containers from sliding forward during handling. The clamp insert is pre-configured with multiple clamps that can be engaged before the rack is moved, ensuring samples are secured prior to any potential damage or misidentification events.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp insert acts as an intermediary mechanism between the rack body and the sample containers. It provides a secure interface that holds containers firmly in place during automated handling, preventing direct contact that could cause damage or misidentification while maintaining smooth operation flow.
3Reliability
If drainage features are added to the rack, then liquid samples can be properly managed, but the rack structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rack body is designed with integrated drainage features that serve multiple functions: they allow liquid samples to drain properly, prevent pooling that could cause contamination, and maintain structural integrity. The drainage channels are incorporated into the existing rack geometry rather than adding separate complex drainage systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample rack includes a housing that has multiple spaces or compartments each for receiving and retaining sample containers of various sizes. The sample rack includes dual hooks on the ends for engaging a sample rack handling system. Chamfers formed in the housing of the sample rack assist in placing and removing the sample rack from a sample rack handling system. The sample tube rack also includes a handle that extends upward from one end and includes gripping features. A groove and bar, incorporated into each sample rack, are able to selectively interlock with adjacent racks to assist in lifting multiple sample racks together.