Reagent Compartment Cooling Layout for Modular Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling systems for reagent compartments in automated analyzer systems are limited by the need for direct attachment of cooling units, which restricts the shape and material of the compartment, complicates insulation, and hinders access for maintenance due to the inverted orientation of cooling elements, increasing system height and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A cooling device with a housing that separates the cooling unit from the reagent compartment, using a Peltier element with a warm upper side and cold lower side, equipped with fans for air circulation, and insulation to manage heat transfer and prevent water condensation, allowing for improved access and flexibility in design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the cooling unit is directly attached to the reagent compartment, then cooling efficiency is improved, but the shape and material freedom of the compartment is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is divided into separate modules: a cooling unit with Peltier elements and a reagent compartment, connected through a coupling element. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's shape and material while maintaining effective thermal coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling element acts as an intermediary between the cooling unit and reagent compartment, providing thermal connection while allowing design freedom. The coupling element can be optimized for thermal conductivity without constraining the overall compartment design.
2Temperature
If the cooling unit is mounted at the bottom of the reagent compartment, then cooling coverage is improved, but complex insulation and watertight sealing are required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of mounting the cooling unit at the bottom with the cold side up, the invention inverts the orientation so the cold side faces the reagent compartment from above. This eliminates the need for complex bottom insulation and watertight sealing, as condensation naturally drains away from the cold surface.
3Temperature
If the cooling unit is directly attached to the reagent compartment, then temperature control is improved, but service access requires complete device disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling unit is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently accessed and serviced. The coupling element enables thermal connection while allowing the cooling unit to be removed and replaced without disassembling the entire device.
4Temperature
If the cooling unit is mounted at the bottom with heat exchanger and air flow space, then cooling capacity is improved, but system height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling unit is reoriented from a bottom-mounted vertical configuration to a top-mounted configuration where the cold side faces downward toward the reagent compartment. This dimensional reorganization reduces the vertical height requirement while maintaining cooling capacity through direct thermal coupling.
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
This configuration enhances freedom in reagent compartment design, simplifies maintenance, and reduces system height by separating the cooling unit, improving cooling efficiency while preventing water damage and maintaining effective temperature control.
Implementation Method 1
Cooling units comprising a Peltier element as a cooling element are often used to cool reagent compartments in smaller medical instruments
Implementation Method 2
a at least one cold air channel and at least one cold air opening at the first side of the housing for circulating cold air between the at least one cooling element and the reagent compartment in a closed system
Implementation Method 3
a spacer with an integrated temperature sensor separates warm upper side and cool lower side
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a device, system and method for cooling a reagent compartment. The invention also relates to a use of the device. The device comprises a housing with a first side for attachment to the reagent compartment, a cooling unit with at least one cooling element with a warm upper side and a cold lower side, that is equipped with a cold side heat exchanger comprising at least one first fan, a at least one cold air channel and at least one cold air opening at the first side of the housing for circulating cold air between the at least one cooling element and the reagent compartment in a closed system.