PCB Sleeve Coil Assembly for Lab Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory sample distribution systems face challenges with unreliable electrical connections due to the complexity of mounting connectors for electro-magnetic actuators, leading to potential false connections.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory sample distribution system featuring a printed circuit board arrangement with tubular sleeves and electric contacts that simplify electrical connections by allowing coils to be easily imposed over the sleeves, eliminating the need for precise orientation and reducing the risk of short-circuits, while using ferromagnetic cores to enhance magnetic fields for sample container carrier movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connectors are mounted to provide electrical connections for coils, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the risk of false or unreliable connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connector function from the coil assembly by integrating electric contacts directly into the printed circuit board. This eliminates the separate connector component that caused reliability issues, while maintaining electrical connectivity through direct soldering of coil terminals to the PCB.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electric contacts with the printed circuit board structure, combining what were previously separate components (connector and PCB) into a unified assembly. This integration eliminates interface errors between separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If precise orientation is required for connector mounting, then electrical connections can be established, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The printed circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, electrical connectivity through traces, and integrated electric contacts. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connector components and their associated orientation requirements, simplifying assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil assembly is designed to be self-aligning with the PCB, where the coil terminals directly contact solder pads on the board. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for precise manual orientation during assembly, as the components naturally align during mounting.
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 configuration simplifies the assembly and operation of the laboratory sample distribution system by ensuring reliable electrical connections and efficient magnetic field generation, enhancing system throughput and reducing manual interaction.
Implementation Method 1
Each ferromagnetic core is at least partially comprised in a corresponding sleeve of the number of sleeves. The ferromagnetic cores enhance magnetic fields generated by the coils.
Implementation Method 2
The sample container carriers can be driven by magnetic fields generated by the coils.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a laboratory sample distribution system and to a laboratory automation system comprising a printed circuit board arrangement and a coil. The printed circuit board arrangement and the coil are configured such that assembly and maintenance of the laboratory automation system are greatly simplified.