Rack-type mobile device for presenting breeding cages and parts thereof for washing, the device being adapted to be inserted into a washing/rinsing machine for use in the field of pharmaceutical preclinical research
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rack-type washing systems for breeding cages in pharmaceutical preclinical research face challenges such as limited capacity due to fixed shelf configurations, leading to poor exposure and accumulation of washing fluid, and are cumbersome to move, hindering efficient loading and unloading.
Innovation Solution
A rack-type mobile device with a load-bearing structural frame and hooking and positioning elements that allow for adjustable positioning and retention of cage parts, enabling increased row capacity and stable presentation during washing, while being designed for easy movement and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fixed shelf configurations are used in rack-type washing systems, then the structure is simple and stable, but the number of rows that can be loaded is limited and cage parts cannot be properly retained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed shelves with adjustable shelves that can be repositioned vertically along the rack structure. This allows the number of rows to be dynamically adjusted based on washing needs, while the adjustment mechanism itself remains relatively simple. The shelves can be moved to different heights to accommodate various cage sizes and to increase the total number of rows that fit within the rack's vertical space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the rack structure into modular sections with individual shelves that can be independently adjusted. Each shelf acts as a separate unit that can be positioned at different levels, allowing flexible configuration of the washing system. This modular approach enables increasing the number of rows without requiring a complete redesign of the entire rack structure.
2Productivity
If shelves are positioned close together to increase row capacity, then more rows can be loaded, but cage parts cannot be properly retained and washing fluid accumulates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing shelves with non-uniform spacing and asymmetric support structures. The shelves are positioned at varying intervals rather than uniform distances, with closer spacing in regions where retention is less critical and greater spacing where retention is needed. The shelf supports are asymmetrically configured to provide enhanced retention forces in specific directions, preventing cage parts from shifting while maintaining high row capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing different shelf configurations in different regions of the rack. Certain shelves have enhanced retention features such as side barriers or increased friction surfaces in areas where cage parts are most likely to shift, while other shelves have simpler designs where retention is less critical. This localized optimization allows close shelf spacing overall while maintaining reliable retention where needed.
3Ease of operation
If traditional rack structures are used, then the design is simple, but the rack is cumbersome to move and difficult to configure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating movable and adjustable components into the rack structure. The shelves can be easily repositioned along vertical guides, and the entire rack may have movable sections or wheels for relocation. This dynamic design allows operators to quickly reconfigure the rack for different washing scenarios without complex assembly or disassembly, improving ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed shelf positions are used, then the structure is stable, but the rack cannot adapt to different cage sizes and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed shelf positions with adjustable positions along vertical guides or tracks. Each shelf can be independently moved to different heights to accommodate various cage sizes and configurations. The adjustment mechanism uses simple guides and positioning features that maintain structural stability while enabling versatile adaptation to different washing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the rack with standardized adjustable shelves that can accommodate multiple cage types and sizes. The same shelf structure and adjustment mechanism serve multiple functions: supporting different weights, accommodating various dimensions, and adapting to different washing configurations. This universal design approach increases adaptability without requiring multiple specialized rack structures.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a rack-type mobile device for presenting parts of breeding cages for washing, the device being adapted to be inserted into a washing/rinsing machine for use in pharmaceutical preclinical research centres, the device comprising: - a load-bearing structural frame (10) for said parts of breeding cages; - means (11, 12) adapted for moving said mobile device, connected to said frame; - one or more hooking and positioning elements (15) for hooking and positioning said parts of breeding cages on said device, said hooking and positioning elements (15) being located on at least one lateral face of the frame and being constrained to said load-bearing structural frame (10); said hooking and positioning elements (15) being shaped as an open hook tilted downwards relative to the horizontal plane, with the hook bottom facing outwards from said lateral face of the mobile device, and the hook tip facing inwards, said open hook having such a width as to be able to internally house at least a part of said cage parts.