Automated Analysis Device Leveling via Multifunctional Reagent Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated analysis devices for biological samples require complex and costly mechanisms or multiple probes for leveling, making them difficult to service and maintain.
Innovation Solution
An automated analysis device with a simple configuration that includes a reaction disk, a reaction container, a reaction tank, a water level sensor, and reagent probes with integrated water detection units, allowing for level confirmation using at least three water level confirmation portions and a control unit to detect and adjust water levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large-scale mechanism or component is used for leveling detection, then the leveling detection capability is improved, but the device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent probe is designed to serve dual purposes: its primary function of aspirating and discharging reagents, and a secondary function of detecting water levels for leveling determination. By integrating the water detection unit into the existing reagent probe structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated leveling probes, thereby reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining accurate leveling detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The reagent probe utilizes its own structure and movement capability to perform self-diagnosis of the reaction tank leveling. The probe's water detection unit detects water presence at different positions during the probe's movement, allowing the system to automatically determine leveling status without requiring external dedicated leveling equipment
2Measurement precision
If multiple dedicated probes are used for leveling operation, then the leveling detection accuracy is improved, but the operation complexity for service engineers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent probe performs both reagent handling and leveling detection functions, eliminating the need for service engineers to operate separate dedicated leveling probes. The control unit automatically processes water detection signals from the reagent probe to determine leveling status, simplifying the service engineer's task to monitoring and basic adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit receives water detection signals from the reagent probe's water detection unit and automatically processes this feedback information to determine leveling status. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates complex manual operations by service engineers, as the system self-determines whether leveling adjustment is needed and provides clear guidance
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 device enables simple and cost-effective level confirmation, improving serviceability and maintaining device stability over long analysis operations.
Implementation Method 1
a water level sensor configured to detect a water level in the reaction tank
Implementation Method 2
the reagent probe includes, at a prescribed site, a water detection unit configured to detect presence of water, and is configured to detect the water level in the reaction tank
Data Source
AI summary
An automated analysis device has a reaction container constructed on a reaction disc, a reaction tank for immersing the reaction container in water, a water level sensor, a reagent probe that suctions/discharges a reagent to the reaction container, and a controller. In the reagent probe, a water detection unit that detects the presence of water is provided at a prescribed site, the reagent probe being capable of detecting the water level in the reaction tank. The controller detects the water level in the reaction tank in at least three locations (e.g., a first water level confirmation part, a second water level confirmation part, and a third water level confirmation part) by using the water level sensor and the reagent probe, and has a function for confirming the levelness of the reaction tank or an apparatus on which the reaction tank is installed.