Low-Profile Retention Clip for Multi-Size Sample Racks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample analysis systems require different clips for various sized sample collection units, leading to instability and complexity, especially in point-of-care applications, where improper clips can cause sample collection units to fall out during testing.
Innovation Solution
A retention clip with a low-profile engagement head and curved tail design that attaches to the sample rack, ensuring secure holding of sample collection units without projecting outward, allowing for smooth movement through testing portals and accommodating a range of sample sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different clips are used for different sized sample collection units, then each sample unit can be securely held, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to needing to track multiple clip types
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip is designed with a universal engagement head that can accommodate multiple sample collection unit sizes through a single clip design. The engagement head features a bridge structure with upper and lower engagement members that can adapt to different tube diameters, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clips while maintaining secure holding for various sample types
2Ease of operation
If conventional clips are used, then sample collection units can be held in place, but reliability deteriorates when improper clips are used causing samples to fall out during conveyor movement
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip employs a low-profile engagement head design where the outer surface does not project outwardly from the rack, creating optimal geometric parameters for stable sample holding during conveyor movement. The curved tail configuration and engagement member spacing are specifically designed to maintain sample security throughout the testing process
3Ease of operation
If clips project outwardly from the rack, then sample holding may be more accessible, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty moving racks through testing portals
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement head is designed with a low-profile configuration where the outer surface does not project outwardly from the rack, effectively removing the protrusion obstacle that would interfere with conveyor movement through testing portals while maintaining sample holding functionality through the curved tail design
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment is a sample rack system. The sample rack system comprises a rack having a base, a top opposite the base along a vertical direction, a receptacle that extends from the top toward the base along the vertical direction, and a receiver element proximate the top. The receptacle is sized to receive a sample collection unit. The system also includes a retention clip for holding the sample collection unit in the receptacle. The retention clip includes an engagement head for attachment to the receiver element of the rack. The engagement head defines an outer surface. The retention clip also includes a curved tail that extends from the engagement head and contacts the sample collection unit when the sample collection unit is placed in the receptacle. The outer surface of the retention clip does not project outwardly from the rack when the retention clip is attached to the rack.