Sample Container Alignment Feed for Analyzer Orientation Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sample handling systems in laboratories face challenges with high manual labor, errors, and complex mechanics, leading to inefficiencies and downtime, especially when aligning and feeding sample containers to analyzers.

Innovation Solution

A sample feeding device with an alignment device that includes a reversing mechanism, such as a pivotable pin, to ensure sample containers are correctly oriented before being dispensed to an analyzer, utilizing gravity and counterweights for alignment, and sensors for monitoring and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual loading of sample containers onto conveyor systems is performed, then the system can achieve automated conveying and processing, but significant operator effort and time are required for preparation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated conveyingVSAvoidpreparation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sample containers are pre-oriented in the loading tray before automated processing begins. The alignment device ensures that containers are correctly positioned in advance, eliminating the need for real-time manual adjustment during automated conveying operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If optical detection methods are used to check sample container orientation, then incorrect orientation can be detected, but the process stops and operator notification causes considerable delays

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddowntime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The alignment device proactively orients sample containers correctly before they enter the automated conveying system, preventing misorientation errors from occurring in the first place rather than detecting and stopping for correction later.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the gravitational force and physical constraints that could potentially cause containers to tip or orient incorrectly, instead channels them through a guided path with alignment features that ensure correct orientation, converting potential harm into reliable alignment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Extent of automation

If motorized gripper arms with complex mechanics are used to handle and orient sample containers, then automated handling and correction of orientation is possible, but acquisition costs and repair costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated handlingVSAvoidmechanical complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sample containers are designed to self-align through their own geometry and interaction with the alignment device features. The containers' rims engage with alignment features, and gravity assists in orienting them correctly without requiring active motorized manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex motorized mechanical systems with a simpler mechanism based on gravity, geometric constraints, and passive alignment features. The alignment device uses fixed guides and gravitational force instead of active motors and sensors to achieve orientation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Reliability

If sample containers are loaded with care to ensure correct orientation, then process disruptions are minimized, but operator effort and potential for human error remain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveorientation accuracyVSAvoidloading effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The alignment device enables sample containers to self-orient through their interaction with alignment features and gravitational force, eliminating the need for careful manual placement by operators while ensuring consistent correct orientation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 device minimizes operator effort, reduces errors, and ensures consistent alignment of sample containers, enhancing throughput and reducing downtime by automating the sample handling process.

Implementation Method 1

A counterweight can be provided, which acts on the reversing device with a corresponding counteracting force in order to deflect the pin-shaped element back into its initial position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Implementation Method 2

In a preferred embodiment, the alignment device has an impact element by means of which the sample container can be deflected and/or oriented in a defined manner

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpact force: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250377370A1Sample introduction device and sample introduction method

Publication Date: 2025.12.11 ELTRA GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a sample supply device and a sample supply method for supplying, in particular, crucible-shaped sample containers to an analyzer. According to the invention, it is provided that the sample containers are aligned in a defined manner with regard to a reproducibly correct output.