Closure Device for Reagent Vessel Container Lid

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current reagent vessel containers in automatic analysis devices experience significant heat exchange through larger openings necessary for reagent vessel exchange, leading to energy-intensive cooling and reduced insulation efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A closure device for the container lid with a fastening element, a movably connected closure element, and a guide rail system that allows for precise control of opening and closing, minimizing heat exchange and enabling both manual and automatic operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If larger openings are provided in the container lid for reagent vessel exchange, then accessibility of the container interior is improved, but heat exchange between the interior and surroundings increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of container interiorVSAvoidheat exchange

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The closure element is divided into a closure proper and an integrated seal element, creating a segmented structure that provides both mechanical closure and thermal sealing functions. The seal element specifically addresses heat exchange by forming a tight seal around the opening periphery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The seal element is designed as a flexible component that can deform to conform to the opening geometry, creating an effective thermal barrier. This flexible sealing mechanism prevents heat transfer while allowing the closure element to be moved for accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Ease of operation

If the closure element is moved horizontally for opening, then accessibility is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveopening accessibilityVSAvoidclosure mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure element combines multiple functions into a single component: mechanical closure, thermal sealing, and horizontal movement capability. The seal element is integrated directly into the closure element, eliminating separate sealing mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The closure element is designed to be self-sealing through its integrated seal element that automatically contacts the opening periphery when closed. The horizontal movement mechanism utilizes the existing opening structure without requiring additional complex actuation systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2754492B1A closure device for access port of a container for reagent vessels in an automated analyzer

Publication Date: 2018.06.20 SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS PRODS

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AI summary

The closure device (1) has a fastening element (2) for fixing the closure device to a container cover, where a closure element (20) is movably connected to the fastening element. The closure element covers an opening of the container cover in a closed position. A guide rail (26) is movably connected with the fastening element and with the closure element, and is able to act to a horizontal force, so that the closure element is movable into an open position from the closed position. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a reagent vessel for an automated analyzer; and (2) an automated analyzer.