Sample Analyzing Apparatus Tube Transfer Path Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers face performance deterioration due to the need for operators to wait for measurement completion before replacing sample tubes, leading to inefficiencies in processing large numbers of samples.
Innovation Solution
A sample analyzing apparatus is designed to allow sample tube replacement during measurement by using a transfer path that enables the removal of sample tubes from one rack without lifting them higher than those in the first rack, facilitating continuous operation without increasing the device's height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sample tube replacement is performed during measurement, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension solution by creating a transfer path that moves sample tubes through the space above the first rack rather than requiring vertical lifting. The transfer unit moves sample tubes in a horizontal plane above the racks, utilizing the third dimension (height) for path routing without increasing the overall device height requirement. This resolves the contradiction by enabling continuous operation while maintaining a compact structure.
2Ease of operation
If sample tubes are transferred through a path avoiding the first rack, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sample tube transfer operation into distinct phases: extraction from the second rack, horizontal transport above the first rack, and deposition into the tube set unit. This segmentation allows the transfer path to be designed as a separate, independent route that does not interfere with rack removal operations, improving ease of operation while keeping the added complexity manageable through modular design.
3Ease of operation
If the device height is increased to lift sample tubes, then ease of operation is improved, but volume of stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing device height to facilitate sample tube transfer, the patent utilizes the horizontal plane above the racks for transfer operations. The transfer unit operates in the spatial volume above the first rack, moving sample tubes horizontally rather than requiring vertical lifting. This approach maintains ease of operation by providing adequate clearance for transfer while avoiding increase in the device's footprint and overall volume.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3E
AI summary
Disclosed is a sample processing apparatus that comprises a case, first and second rack means each for holding sample tubes, first and second drawer means sliding into and out of the case, for supporting the first and second rack means, respectively, a tube set means provided in an area close to the first rack means in the case, a tube transfer means for removing sample tubes from the first and second rack means in the case, and a control means for controlling a transfer operation of the tube transfer means, wherein the first rack means is supported by the first drawer means such that the first rack means leaves a transit location in the case behind the first drawer means in the direction of the first drawer means movement into the case, and the control means controls the tube transfer means to remove at least one sample tube from the second rack means and transfers the tube to the tube set means via a path traversing the transit location.