Multi-Level Sample Carrier Handling Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laboratory systems lack an efficient and reliable interface for handling sample container carriers between laboratory stations and operating devices, which hampers the seamless delivery and analysis of samples.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory sample container carrier handling apparatus featuring multiple revolving devices, transport devices, and lifting mechanisms that rotate and transport sample containers between different levels and paths, with a control system to optimize sample throughput by synchronizing the movement of sample containers between operating devices and laboratory stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single-level transport system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and sample throughput are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by implementing multiple levels (first level with first revolving device, second level with second revolving device) connected by lifting devices. This multi-level configuration allows simultaneous handling of multiple sample containers at different heights, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing horizontal space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling apparatus is segmented into multiple independent functional modules: first revolving device, second revolving device, first lifting device, and second lifting device. Each module operates semi-independently, allowing parallel processing of multiple samples and improving overall throughput while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Productivity
If multiple revolving devices at different levels are introduced, then the sample handling efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the first and second revolving devices perform similar functions (rotating to position sample containers), and both lifting devices perform the same function (vertical transport). This functional repetition across levels creates a universal modular architecture where each component type serves multiple purposes, improving handling efficiency while keeping the system design consistent and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting devices act as intermediaries that connect the first and second levels, enabling vertical transport between the revolving devices. This intermediary mechanism allows the system to coordinate multiple levels without requiring direct complex interactions between all components, thereby improving overall coordination efficiency.
3Productivity
If simultaneous loading and unloading operations are enabled, then the productivity increases, but the reliability requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous operation by allowing simultaneous loading and unloading operations to occur at different levels and positions. The first and second revolving devices can rotate and position samples continuously, while lifting devices continuously transport samples vertically. This continuous action maximizes productivity by eliminating idle time between operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-level design with buffer positions on both the first and second revolving devices provides cushioning capacity to handle potential disruptions. If one operation encounters an issue, the system can temporarily store samples at buffer positions on either level, preventing complete system failure and maintaining operational reliability during simultaneous operations.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
Laboratory sample container carrier handling apparatus (1), comprising: - a first revolving device (2), being adapted to move sample container carriers (3) along a first path, the first revolving device (2) being placed at a first level, - a second revolving device (4), being adapted to move sample container carriers (3) along a second path, the second revolving device (4) being placed at a second level being different from the first level, - a first transport device (5) being adapted to transport sample container carriers (3) to a first handover position associated with the first revolving device (2) and/or being adapted to transport sample container carriers (3) away from the first handover position, - a second transport device (6) being adapted to transport sample container carriers (3) to a second handover position associated with the second revolving device (4) and/or being adapted to transport sample container carriers (3) away from the second handover position, and - a first lifting device (7) being adapted to lift a sample container carrier (3) from a first lifting position associated with the first revolving device (2) to a second lifting position associated with the second revolving device (4), - wherein an operating position is associated with the first revolving device (2) or the second revolving device (4), wherein a sample container (9) is loaded in a sample container carrier (3) being placed at the operating position and/or a sample container (9) is unloaded from a sample container carrier (3) being placed at the operating position.