Receptacle Holder with Sliding Resilient Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing receptacle holders in laboratory automation systems are not effectively designed to securely support a variety of receptacle sizes and require precise alignment for insertion and removal, which can be time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A receptacle holder with detachably connected bent resilient elements that allow sliding motion perpendicular to the axis, enabling secure insertion and self-centering of receptacles, and a receptacle rack comprising multiple holders with sliding resilient elements for accommodating different receptacle dimensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional rigid receptacle holders are used, then structural stability is maintained, but precise alignment is required for insertion and removal which reduces handling efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling efficiencyVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the rigid, fixed structure into a dynamic system with resilient elements that can adapt their position. The resilient elements are configured to be deflectable, allowing the holder to dynamically adjust during insertion and removal operations, thereby reducing alignment precision requirements while maintaining structural stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the mechanical properties of the holder components. The resilient elements change their stiffness parameter based on operational needs - providing flexibility during insertion/removal to reduce alignment requirements, while maintaining sufficient rigidity to securely hold receptacles in position during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If fixed resilient elements are used, then receptacle securing is improved, but adaptability to different receptacle sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereceptacle securingVSAvoidadaptability to different sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient elements are designed to be deflectable rather than rigidly fixed, enabling them to dynamically adapt to different receptacle dimensions while maintaining secure holding. The ability to deflect allows the same holder structure to accommodate various receptacle sizes reliably.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The holder design achieves universality by incorporating resilient elements that can adjust to different receptacle configurations. This multi-functional design allows a single holder type to securely accommodate multiple receptacle sizes and types, improving versatility without compromising securing reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If detachably connected resilient elements are used, then adaptability to different receptacle dimensions is improved, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different dimensionsVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is segmented into a base body and detachably connected resilient elements. This segmentation allows the resilient elements to be independently configured or replaced to match different receptacle dimensions, improving adaptability while keeping the overall structure modular and manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The detachable resilient elements serve multiple functions: they provide securing force, enable adaptation to different sizes, and can be replaced or reconfigured as needed. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural complexity by consolidating multiple capabilities into a single modular component system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution allows for secure and efficient support of various receptacle sizes with reduced precision requirements during insertion and alignment, enabling faster handling and adaptation to different dimensions without modifying the holder.

Implementation Method 1

bent resilient elements, which are distributed about a first axis of the receptacle holder and are detachably connected with the first perimeter wall... each resilient element comprises a first end portion and a second end portion, and wherein each second end portion rests hooked over an edge of a portion of the first perimeter wall, and wherein the receptacle holder is configured to allow sliding of each second end portion in a direction perpendicular to the first axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11471890B2Receptacle holder and receptacle rack

Publication Date: 2022.10.18 THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC OY

AI summary

A receptacle holder having a base body, a first perimeter wall which at least partially protrudes from the base body, and a plurality of resilient elements, which are distributed about a first axis of the receptacle holder and are detachably connected with the first perimeter wall, and wherein each resilient element comprises a first end portion and a second end portion, and wherein each second end portion rests hooked over an edge of a portion of the first perimeter wall, and wherein the receptacle holder is configured to allow sliding of each second end portion in a direction perpendicular to the first axis.