Rail and Actuator Platform for Laboratory Module Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laboratory workstations require multiple personnel to handle and install heavy modules, and often necessitate the use of additional equipment like carts for moving and servicing these modules, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system comprising at least one rail and an actuator platform allows a single field service engineer to easily and efficiently install, remove, and service modules within a laboratory workstation, without the need for additional equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple personnel are used to handle heavy modules, then the module can be safely moved and installed, but the complexity of the installation process increases and requires more personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rail system as an intermediary mechanism between the module and the workstation. The rail extends outside the workstation to provide a guided path for module insertion, allowing a single operator to safely handle heavy modules without requiring multiple personnel, thus resolving the contradiction between safe handling and process complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The rail system extends in a horizontal dimension outside the workstation boundary, creating a transitional zone that facilitates module movement. This dimensional extension allows the module to be guided into the workstation along a controlled path, reducing the need for multiple operators while maintaining safety
2Ease of operation
If additional equipment like carts is used to move modules, then module transportation is facilitated, but the device complexity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transportation and installation functions into a single integrated rail system. The rail serves both as a guide for moving the module into the workstation and as a support structure during installation, eliminating the need for separate carts or additional equipment, thus improving ease of operation while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The rail system performs multiple functions: it guides module insertion, supports the module during installation, and provides a controlled path for module removal. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate transportation equipment like carts, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and equipment requirements
3Ease of repair
If modules are removed from the workstation for service, then comprehensive maintenance can be performed, but productivity and time efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The rail system serves as an intermediary that allows the module to be partially extracted from the workstation while remaining guided and supported. This enables service personnel to access and service the module without completely removing it, maintaining ease of repair while reducing service time and improving productivity
4Productivity
If a single personnel is used to install modules, then productivity increases, but the ability to safely handle heavy modules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rail system acts as a mechanical intermediary that bears the weight and guides the module during insertion. This allows a single operator to safely handle heavy modules by relying on the rail's structural support rather than manual lifting capacity, thus maintaining both productivity and safety
Data Source
AI summary
A method of installing a module associated with a life sciences laboratory workstation includes positioning at least a portion of at least one rail to extend outside the laboratory workstation; disposing the module on the at least one rail at a first position that is at least partially outside of the laboratory workstation; moving the module from the first position to a second position within the laboratory workstation via the at least one rail positioned within the laboratory workstation; transferring the module from the at least one rail to an actuator platform located within the laboratory workstation; and causing the actuator platform to position the module at a predetermined position within the laboratory workstation.