Movable Channel Bridging for Continuous Sample Rack Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers face reduced transportation efficiency of sample racks due to interrupted channels when the shuttle device is not in the sampling area, leading to decreased detection throughput and increased complexity and cost with additional shuttle devices.
Innovation Solution
A channel bridging device that allows the shuttle device to be released during sampling by moving between positions, enabling it to perform other tasks, with a movable body connecting sample aspiration and standby channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the shuttle device is located in the sampling area during sample collection, then the sample rack can be moved in the sampling area, but the channel within the sampling area is interrupted and the sample rack can no longer be moved in the sampling area
Solution Approach 1:
A channel bridging device is introduced as an intermediary component to connect the sample aspiration channel and standby channel when the shuttle device is present in the sampling area. This mediator allows sample racks to be transferred between channels without requiring the shuttle device to be absent, thus maintaining both sample rack movement capability and transportation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample rack transport system is segmented into multiple independent channels (sample aspiration channel, standby channel) that can operate independently. The channel bridging device enables selective connection between these segments, allowing continuous operation of the shuttle device while maintaining transport capability through alternative routing.
2Productivity
If an additional shuttle device is added to improve the transportation efficiency of sample racks, then the transport capacity increases, but the structure and operation of the sample analyzer become more complicated and cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The channel bridging device serves multiple functions: it acts as a channel connector when the shuttle is present, provides alternative routing for sample racks, and enables continuous operation without requiring additional shuttle devices. This multi-functional component improves productivity while avoiding the complexity and cost of adding another shuttle device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to a channel bridging device for sample collection of a sample analyzer, a sample analyzer comprising the channel bridging device, and a method for collecting a sample in a sample analyzer by means of the channel bridging device. The channel bridging device comprises: a body used for carrying a sample holder; and a base, wherein the body is movably attached to the base. The body is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position; in the first position, the body is connected to a sample suction channel and a spare channel to allow for transfer of the sample holder between the sample suction channel and the spare channel; and in the second position, the body is distant from the sample suction channel and the spare channel and allows for movement of a connection device to the first position. The channel bridging device of the present application can free up the connection device during sampling, thereby allowing the connection device to execute other tasks; therefore, the transport capacity of the sample holder is improved, and the sample processing capability and test throughput of the sample analyzer are thus improved.