Probe Tip Eject Device Sloped Ramp Bio-liquid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated diagnostic analysis apparatus face issues with probe tip removal, leading to residual bio-liquid shearing and splattering, contamination, clogging, and jamming, which compromise sample analysis throughput and require manual cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A probe tip eject device with an arcuate slot and inclined ramp to control the removal speed of the probe tip, reducing sudden pressure spikes and allowing for horizontal transfer of removed tips to prevent contamination, combined with a waste chute design that prevents contact with internal surfaces to avoid jamming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated probe tip removal is implemented to maintain high sample analysis throughput, then productivity is improved, but residual bio-liquid shearing and splattering occur causing contamination and clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The probe tip removal process is made dynamic and controlled through the ramp mechanism that gradually engages with the probe tip flange. The ramp slopes downward at a specific angle that controls the removal speed, transforming the abrupt static removal into a controlled dynamic process that prevents bio-liquid shearing and splattering while maintaining automated high-throughput operation
Solution Approach 2:
The removal speed parameter is changed by introducing the ramp with a specific slope angle. This parameter change allows the probe tip to be removed at a controlled, slower rate rather than abruptly, which prevents harmful bio-liquid shearing and splattering effects while maintaining automated throughput
2Productivity
If rapid probe tip removal is used to maintain throughput, then productivity is improved, but sudden pressure spikes cause contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp mechanism introduces a dynamic, controlled engagement process that gradually applies force to the probe tip flange. This dynamic approach prevents sudden pressure spikes by distributing the removal force over time and space, while still maintaining the automated rapid replacement cycle for high throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp acts as a cushioning mechanism before the actual separation occurs. By having the ramp gradually engage with the probe tip flange at a controlled angle, the system cushions against sudden pressure spikes and bio-liquid shearing, preventing contamination while maintaining throughput
3Extent of automation
If conventional probe tip removal is used, then automation is maintained, but manual cleaning is required due to contamination and clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically preventing contamination and clogging through the ramp-controlled removal mechanism. The controlled engagement and gradual separation process inherently prevents bio-liquid shearing and splattering, eliminating the need for manual cleaning while maintaining full automation
Solution Approach 2:
The potential harm of rapid removal causing bio-liquid shearing and contamination is converted into a benefit by using the ramp mechanism to control the removal process. The controlled gradual separation prevents harmful effects while maintaining automated operation, turning a potential problem into a solution
4Object-affected harmful factors
If probe tips are transferred horizontally to prevent contamination, then contamination is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The eject device is segmented into functional components: the body with arcuate slot, the inclined ramp, and the waste chute. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (controlling removal angle, gradual separation, and waste disposal) independently, achieving contamination prevention through a modular structure that manages complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The probe tip removal is moved from a vertical or random direction to a controlled horizontal dimension along the arcuate slot. This dimensional change allows the probe tip to be removed and transferred horizontally away from contamination sources, and the waste chute is positioned to receive tips at a different spatial dimension, preventing contact with internal surfaces
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 controlled removal and transfer of probe tips minimize bio-liquid shearing and splattering, reducing contamination and clogging, and eliminate the need for manual cleaning, enhancing sample analysis throughput and reducing patient sample waste.
Implementation Method 1
The ramp is sized to engage a top of a flange of the probe tip... rotating the probe along the arcuate slot causes the probe tip to separate from the probe
Data Source
AI summary
Automated diagnostic analysis apparatus for analyzing patient specimens may include a probe to aspirate and dispense a bio-liquid. A probe tip on the probe may require replacement after contact with each bio-liquid. The automated diagnostic analysis apparatus may include a probe tip eject device and a waste chute for controlled removal and disposal of the probe tip to mitigate splattering or splashing of any residual bio-liquid in the probe tip as it is removed from the probe. A sloped ramp in the probe tip eject device may engage and remove the probe tip as it rotates through the probe tip eject device. The waste chute may include guides to transfer a removed probe tip directly into a waste bin without any surface contact by the probe tip. Methods of removing and disposing of a probe tip in an automated diagnostic analysis apparatus are described, as are other aspects.