Reagent Storage Air Circulation via Shared Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample measuring apparatuses face challenges in minimizing size and reducing the number of parts due to the need for separate driving units to rotate reagent holding racks and air circulation devices, leading to increased complexity and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A sample measuring apparatus with a single driving unit that rotates both the reagent container holder and a fin to circulate air within the reagent storage, eliminating the need for additional space and parts, and optionally incorporating a cooling unit to maintain efficient temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a separate motor is provided to drive the circulation device for air circulation in the reagent depository, then the air circulation function is achieved, but the apparatus is enlarged by the space required for the motor and the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the circulation device with the existing driving unit that rotates the reagent holding rack. The circulation device is integrated into the driving unit structure, allowing it to be driven by the same motor without requiring a separate motor, thus reducing the number of parts while maintaining the air circulation function
Solution Approach 2:
The driving unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it both rotates the reagent holding rack to present different reagent bottles and drives the circulation device to circulate air within the reagent depository. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated motor for air circulation alone
2Ease of manufacture
If a separate motor is provided to drive the circulation device for air circulation in the reagent depository, then the air circulation function is achieved, but the apparatus is enlarged by the space required for the motor
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation device is merged with the driving unit structure, sharing the same motor and spatial footprint. This integration allows the circulation function to be added without requiring additional space for a separate motor, thus preventing apparatus enlargement
Solution Approach 2:
The driving unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it both rotates the reagent holding rack to present different reagent bottles and drives the circulation device to circulate air within the reagent depository. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated motor for air circulation alone
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 allows for a more compact and simplified apparatus design that inhibits enlargement and reduces the number of parts, while effectively circulating air to maintain optimal storage conditions for reagents.
Implementation Method 1
a fin (40) that circulates air in the reagent storage (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A sample measuring apparatus and a method of circulating air in a reagent storage are provided. The sample measuring apparatus includes: a measuring unit that measures a sample by using a reagent stored in a reagent container; a reagent storage that stores the reagent container; a reagent container holder arranged in the reagent storage and that holds the reagent container; a fin that circulates air in the reagent storage; and a driving unit that drives the reagent container holder and the fin to rotate.