Rotating Specimen Rack Conveyance for Compact Vertical Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen storage systems require significant vertical space due to the need for transfer arms to move horizontally across multiple floors, leading to increased device height and inefficient use of space.
Innovation Solution
A conveying device with rotatable support arms and a loop-shaped circulation path that allows racks to be moved vertically and horizontally while maintaining the upright posture of specimen containers, eliminating the need for horizontal transfer arms and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If transfer arms move horizontally across multiple floors to access specimens, then specimen accessibility is improved, but device height increases and vertical space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal transfer arm movement across multiple floors to vertical rack movement along a single floor. The circulation path arranges racks in a vertical sequence that can be accessed sequentially, eliminating the need for horizontal transfer arms to span multiple floors. This dimensional change reduces device height while maintaining specimen accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable racks that can be transferred along the circulation path between storage positions and retrieval positions. The racks move dynamically along the path, allowing flexible access to specimens without requiring fixed horizontal transfer arms. This dynamic movement enables compact vertical arrangement while maintaining operational flexibility.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple racks are arranged in vertical stages with horizontal transfer arm movement, then specimen storage capacity is improved, but space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges multiple racks in a nested configuration along the circulation path, where racks are positioned one after another in a compact vertical sequence. The circulation path allows sequential access to nested racks without requiring extensive horizontal space. This nesting approach maximizes storage capacity within a compact footprint, improving space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reorganizes rack arrangement from a horizontal multi-floor configuration to a vertical single-floor sequence. By stacking racks vertically along the circulation path, the system achieves high storage capacity without proportionally increasing horizontal footprint. This dimensional reorganization optimizes space efficiency while maintaining substantial specimen storage capacity.
3Area of stationary object
If racks are moved up and down in a housing, then vertical space utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rack movement function with the circulation path structure itself. The circulation path serves as both the conveying mechanism and the structural framework for vertical space utilization. By integrating these functions, the system achieves efficient vertical space usage without adding separate complex lifting mechanisms. The circulation path's design inherently provides the vertical movement capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage apparatus according to an embodiment includes a conveying device, the conveying device including; a feeding member that moves along a predetermined circulation path having a forward path and a backward path; a plurality of support arms supported by the feeding member; and a plurality of racks rotatably supported by the support arms and capable of holding a specimen.