Nested Piercer and Probe for Automatic Analyzers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The automatic analyzing apparatus faces challenges when handling sample containers with large sample volumes, as the piercing action can cause the sample to rush into the piercer needle and spill, requiring careful storage and handling to prevent sample loss during the dispensing process.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a piercer unit with a detector unit that measures pressure changes to detect the lid penetration accurately, allowing the piercer to stop at a position that prevents sample spatter by ensuring the piercer needle is positioned farthest from the sample surface, and a sample dispensing probe that aspirates the sample through the piercer needle, minimizing spillage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the piercer needle penetrates the lid to access the sample container, then the sample dispensing probe can enter the container, but the sample rushes into the piercer needle and spatters out
Solution Approach 1:
The sample dispensing probe is nested within the piercer needle, allowing the probe to pass through the needle's interior after the needle penetrates the lid. This nested configuration enables both piercing and sampling functions while preventing sample spatter, as the probe remains contained within the needle structure during the piercing action.
2Ease of operation
If the piercer needle stops at a predetermined height after penetration, then the sample dispensing probe can move inside the needle, but sample spatter occurs when large amounts of sample are present
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a detector that provides feedback on the piercer needle's penetration status and position. Based on this feedback, the control unit adjusts the needle's stopping position dynamically, ensuring it stops at an appropriate height that prevents sample spatter while still allowing the dispensing probe to move inside the needle for sample aspiration.
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
This solution effectively prevents sample spatter and ensures accurate aspiration by detecting lid penetration and controlling the piercer's position, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the sample dispensing process in the automatic analyzing apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a detector unit adapted to detect the piercer penetrating through the lid
Implementation Method 2
The sample dispensing probe passes through an inside of the piercer that has penetrated through the lid, enters the sample container, and aspirates the sample
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an automatic analyzing apparatus includes a piercer, a detector unit, and a sample dispensing probe. The piercer pierces a lid that seals an opening of a sample container containing a sample. The detector unit detects the piercer penetrating through the lid. The sample dispensing probe passes through an inside of the piercer that has penetrated through the lid, enters the sample container, and aspirates the sample.