Partition Panel
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory chambers lack flexibility in subdividing their interior volumes into smaller regions, leading to complex and inflexible configurations when managing samples or maintaining climate conditions.
Innovation Solution
A detachable partition panel with a rectangular base body, featuring insertion hooks and a spring element for easy installation and removal, which can be oriented vertically and integrated with intermediate trays to create additional compartments, enhancing flexibility and stability without requiring additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the interior volume is divided by boxes into several subvolumes with inner doors, then the climate in remaining subvolumes is protected when samples are placed or removed, but the implementation becomes highly complex and lacks flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The partition panel is divided into a base body and separate attachment elements (insertion hooks and spring elements). The insertion hooks are attached to the base body while the spring elements are attached to the insertion hooks, creating a modular segmented structure that simplifies manufacturing and assembly while maintaining functional integrity for climate protection
Solution Approach 2:
The spring elements provide dynamic attachment capability, allowing the partition panel to be easily inserted and removed from the laboratory chamber. This dynamic attachment mechanism replaces complex fixed structures with simple spring-based connections that maintain reliability during use but allow quick reconfiguration when needed
2Reliability
If fixed partition structures are used to divide the interior volume, then sample intermixing is prevented, but the flexibility to reconfigure compartments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The partition panel uses dynamic spring-based attachment instead of fixed mounting, enabling the structure to remain stable during normal use (preventing sample intermixing) while allowing easy removal and repositioning for reconfiguration. The spring elements maintain constant contact force for reliable separation during operation but permit simple detachment when reconfiguration is needed
Solution Approach 2:
The partition panel can be oriented vertically to create additional compartment levels between existing horizontal trays, adding a vertical dimension to the compartmentalization. This allows flexible reconfiguration of sample storage spaces without requiring complete structural redesign, maintaining sample separation while adapting to different storage needs
3Reliability
If additional tools are used for installation and removal of partition panels, then secure fixation is achieved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring elements automatically engage with the laboratory chamber structure when the partition panel is inserted, providing self-fixating capability without requiring additional tools. The spring force maintains reliable fixation during use, and the same spring mechanism allows easy release by applying minimal force in the opposite direction, enabling tool-free installation and removal
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment functionality is extracted from the base body and implemented as separate insertion hooks and spring elements. This separation allows the fixation mechanism to be optimized independently - the springs provide automatic engagement and reliable fixation, while the hooks provide simple geometric connection points that work together to achieve stable attachment without complex tooling requirements
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
Enables simple and flexible compartmentalization within laboratory chambers, reducing the risk of sample intermixing and maintaining controlled climate conditions, while allowing for easy cleaning and sterilization due to its metal construction.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring element which is implemented to generate a force in the direction toward the front edge
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a partition panel for the detachable insertion into a laboratory chamber, for example an incubator, cold chamber, heating chamber, drying chamber of climate chamber, wherein the partition panel comprises a substantially rectangular flat base body with a lower edge, an upper edge, a front edge, a back edge as well as two parallel side faces, wherein on the base body at least one insertion hook open toward the front edge and at least one spring element for generating a force in the direction toward the front edge are disposed.