Multi-purpose Analyzer Rotor Cuvette Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic analytical devices for in vitro diagnosis are complex, costly, and require specialized training, making them inefficient and prone to handling errors, especially when handling multiple measurement technologies like biochemistry, immunology, and coagulation, which have different process requirements and sensitivity needs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose automatic analytical device with a vertical-axis rotor and modular design that uses unit cuvettes for different tests, allowing for simultaneous processing of various analytical processes, including spectrophotometry, fluorescence, and coagulation, with on-board software for managing sequences and temperature control, and a cuvette distribution system that enables efficient handling and observation of reactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple specialized instruments are used for different measurement technologies (biochemistry, immunology, coagulation), then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single automated analyzer that can perform multiple measurement technologies including biochemistry, immunology, and coagulation tests. The device uses a universal reaction chamber design that can accommodate different test types, with a rotor system that positions cuvettes at appropriate stations for different measurement modalities (spectrophotometry, fluorescence, luminescence, and coagulation detection). This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized instruments while maintaining measurement reliability through dedicated measurement stations for each technology type.
2Measurement precision
If multiple specialized instruments are used for different measurement technologies, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement systems (spectrophotometer, fluorometer, luminescence detector, and coagulation measurement station) into a single integrated analyzer. The device merges sample handling, reagent delivery, and measurement functions into one platform, reducing the total number of machines in the laboratory while preserving analytical precision through dedicated measurement stations for each technology type.
3Ease of operation
If sequential multi-purpose design is used to reduce device complexity, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into distinct functional stations arranged around a rotor, with each station dedicated to a specific measurement technology (spectrophotometry, fluorescence, luminescence, coagulation). The rotor divides the reaction chambers (cuvettes) into multiple segments that can be independently positioned at different stations. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different test types simultaneously, maintaining high productivity while keeping operation simple through automated rotor control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated operation through a rotating rotor system that continuously cycles cuvettes through different measurement stations. The automated sample handling and reagent delivery systems operate continuously without manual intervention between tests. The rotor maintains continuous motion, positioning cuvettes at appropriate measurement stations in sequence, eliminating idle time and maintaining high processing rates while simplifying operator interaction to minimal input actions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual intervention is required for switching between measurement technologies, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated identification and routing of test samples through the system. The device automatically determines which measurement technology is required for each cuvette based on test parameters input by the operator, and autonomously positions the cuvette at the appropriate measurement station without manual intervention. The automated control system manages the complex switching between different measurement technologies, eliminating time loss while maintaining full adaptability to various test types.
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
The device simplifies laboratory operations, reduces costs, and improves reliability by enabling simultaneous processing of multiple test types, reducing the need for multiple machines and minimizing contamination risks, while maintaining high processing rates suitable for small to medium-sized laboratories.
Implementation Method 1
carry out spectrophotometric measurements on the cuvettes when the rotor positions them between the elements of a device for spectrophotometric measurement
Implementation Method 2
deposit a given volume of a solution containing a fixed concentration of magnetic nanoparticles
Implementation Method 3
magnetic sedimentation and washing module
Implementation Method 4
module for developing and reading the luminescence
Implementation Method 5
measuring cells such that the device B can deposit therein the triggering reagent specific to the reaction under consideration, each cell having optical means for detecting the formation of the clot
Implementation Method 6
a device for maintaining the temperature of the cuvettes at a given level
Data Source
AI summary
The device comprises reaction unit cuvettes (22) for different types of tests, a vertical axis rotor (7) which is associated with a rotation drive means and provided with a horizontal gear-teeth crown (8) delimiting radially outwardly open cavities for receiving the reaction unit cuvettes (22), a device (20) for supplying the gear-teeth crown with the reaction unit cuvettes (22), a device (6) for supplying cuvettes with analyzable biological liquid samples, stations (13, 19) arranged around the crown for carrying out measurements and/or analysis and an automation for managing the sequences of a desired process for each cuvette.