Motorized Cryogenic Tube Cap Handling to Reduce Repetitive Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
The repetitive and tedious task of manually unscrewing and screwing caps on cryogenic tubes and vials causes wrist and arm fatigue, and increases the risk of medical conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, especially in pharmaceutical research settings where large quantities need to be handled quickly.
Innovation Solution
A handheld, battery-operated device with a gear assembly and motor system that automatically rotates caps counterclockwise for removal and clockwise for reattachment, equipped with ergonomic design and switch controls for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual unscrewing and screwing of caps is performed, then the task can be completed with simple tools, but wrist and arm fatigue increases and the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical screwing and unscrewing action with an automated motorized system. The device uses a motor to drive a gear mechanism that rotates the septum, which in turn rotates the cap. This substitution of manual mechanical action with an automated electromechanical system eliminates the repetitive wrist and arm movements that cause fatigue and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, while maintaining the functionality of cap removal and replacement.
2Productivity
If manual cap handling is performed, then no additional equipment is needed, but time consumption increases when handling large quantities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous automated operation through a motorized system that can rapidly cycle through cap removal and replacement operations without interruption. The motor continuously drives the gear mechanism to rotate the septum, enabling rapid sequential operations on multiple containers. This continuous automated action eliminates the pauses and manual repetitions inherent in manual handling, significantly reducing the time required to process large quantities of caps while maintaining high productivity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated motorized device is used, then fatigue and injury risk are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the automated cap handling system into distinct functional segments: a motor assembly for power, a gear mechanism for motion transmission, a septum for cap engagement, and a housing for protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while achieving automation. The modular segmented structure reduces complexity compared to a monolithic automated system, making the device more manufacturable and maintainable while still eliminating manual labor and its associated risks.
4Reliability
If multiple full rotations of the wrist are required, then the cap can be securely fastened or removed, but repetitive motion exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the repetitive wrist rotation mechanism with an automated motorized system that performs the same rotational function. The motor drives a gear mechanism that rotates the septum through the necessary angles to securely fasten or remove caps, eliminating the need for repeated wrist movements. This substitution maintains the reliability of secure cap attachment while removing the repetitive motion exposure that leads to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other hand injuries.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces the time and effort required for handling multiple caps, minimizing fatigue and risk of injury, while providing a safer and more efficient cap management solution.
Implementation Method 1
The handheld device includes a battery compartment, a battery, an electric drive motor, a gear assembly, a housing, a septum, one or more activation switches, and suitable wiring to electrically couple the battery, the electric drive motor, and the one or more switches
Implementation Method 2
an electric drive motor, a gear assembly, a housing, a septum, one or more activation switches, and suitable wiring to electrically couple the battery, the electric drive motor, and the one or more switches
Implementation Method 3
The gear assembly comprises two or more gears, including a first toothed gear fixedly attached to a spindle extending from the drive motor, and a second toothed gear fixedly attached to the proximal end of the rod
Implementation Method 4
The septum is configured to form a friction-grip on the screw-cap of the cryogenic tube or cryogenic vial when the septum is pushed onto the screw-cap or the screw-cap is pushed into the septum
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld, battery operated device that, when activated, will grip a screw-cap on the top of a cryogenic vial, microtube, test tube or other pharmaceutical product container, and automatically rotate the cap in a counterclockwise direction to remove the cap, and automatically rotate the cap in a clockwise direction to fasten the cap back on the cryogenic vial, microtube, test tube or other pharmaceutical product container.