Retractable Sampling Tool Mechanism for Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sampling apparatuses cannot retract their cutting tools, leading to user injury and potential infection as the tip end cannot be safely retracted into the device.
Innovation Solution
A sampling apparatus design that includes a tubular member with a cylindrical member, a pressing mechanism, and a movable sampling member with a retractable tool, utilizing a resilient element and locking mechanisms to safely retract the tool into the cylindrical member for hygiene and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cutting tool is extended for sampling operation, then the sampling function is improved, but user safety and hygiene deteriorate when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting tool is nested within the cylindrical member when not in use, with the tool tip retractable into the hollow interior of the cylindrical member. This nesting arrangement protects the sharp tip while maintaining sampling functionality when extended.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting tool transitions from a static extended position to a dynamic retractable position. The resilient element enables the tool to move between extended (for sampling) and retracted (for safety) states, making the system adaptive to different operational requirements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a retractable tool mechanism is added, then safety and hygiene are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient element automatically propels the cutting tool between extended and retracted positions without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself through elastic energy storage and release, simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting tool is designed as a disposable component that can be easily replaced. This approach reduces the complexity of creating a permanently retractable mechanism with high reliability requirements, as the simple resilient-element-based retraction system only needs to function during the tool's service life.
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
Ensures the tool is safely retracted into the cylindrical member when not in use, preventing user injury and maintaining hygiene by using a combination of elastic hooks, resilient elements, and locking ribs to manage the tool's extension and retraction.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element arranged in the cylindrical member to push the pressing member and the movable sampling member
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling apparatus contains: a tubular member, a pressing mechanism, a forcing member, and a movable sampling member. The tubular member includes an inner thread section, an orifice, a stepped shoulder, a first fixing hole, and a second fixing hole. The pressing mechanism includes a press member, a driving member, a resilient element, and an elastic hook. The driving member includes an inserting segment, an aperture, a retaining slot, and a receiving groove, and two ends of the resilient element abut against the driving member and the forcing member. The cylindrical member includes an outer thread section and two opposite positioning recesses. The forcing member includes a needle and two opposite locating stems. The movable sampling member includes a hollowly lower side, a hollow affixing mount, a hollow tool, and a blade.