Rack Collecting Unit Flexible Layout Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample processing systems lack flexibility in arranging the rack collecting unit and rack setting unit, making it difficult to adapt to different installation configurations, such as placing the rack collecting unit near the rack setting unit.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing apparatus with a rack collecting unit that includes multiple transport paths and a storing section, allowing the rack collecting unit to be connected to the transport unit on either side and adapt to different layouts, enabling flexible positioning and efficient sample rack handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the rack collecting unit is fixed in a specific position relative to the rack setting unit, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to different facility layouts
Solution Approach 1:
The rack collecting unit is designed with multiple transport paths (first transport path for receiving racks from the rack setting unit, second transport path for receiving racks from the transport unit, and third transport path for delivering racks to the storing section) that can be selectively connected. This multi-functional design allows the same rack collecting unit to adapt to different facility layouts by switching between connection configurations, thereby achieving versatility without requiring multiple specialized units for each layout scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic connection capability where the rack collecting unit can be selectively connected to different transport paths based on operational requirements. The connection between the rack collecting unit and the transport unit is configured to be changeable, allowing the system to dynamically adapt its structure to match different facility arrangements while maintaining operational efficiency.
2Productivity
If the rack collecting unit is positioned far from the rack setting unit, then more processing capacity can be accommodated, but the transport path becomes longer and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system utilizes multi-dimensional routing with multiple transport paths that operate in parallel. The first transport path connects the rack setting unit directly to the rack collecting unit, while the second transport path connects the transport unit to the rack collecting unit. This dimensional expansion of the transport architecture allows racks to be routed through optimal paths, accommodating increased processing capacity while minimizing transport time by providing alternative routes.
3Productivity
If multiple rack setting/collecting units are provided, then the processing capacity increases, but the system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack collecting unit is designed as a universal unit that can perform multiple functions: collecting racks from the rack setting unit via the first transport path, collecting racks from the transport unit via the second transport path, and delivering racks to the storing section via the third transport path. This multi-functional design allows a single rack collecting unit to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized units, thereby increasing processing capacity while reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack collecting unit including: a transport path capable of transporting a sample rack in a first direction; a transport path capable of transporting the sample rack in a second direction opposite to the first direction; a storing section for storing therein the sample rack; and a transferring section for transferring the sample rack carried onto the transport paths to the storing section.