Sample container carrier, laboratory sample distribution system and laboratory automation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory sample distribution systems lack improved holding properties for sample containers, leading to inefficient transportation and potential sample loss or damage.
Innovation Solution
A sample container carrier with a first and second holding element that are rotationally displaceable, coupled by a ring-segment shaped coupler, ensuring balanced force application and secure holding of laboratory sample containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional holding mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is low, but the holding properties and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The holding elements are made rotationally displaceable, transforming a static holding mechanism into a dynamic one. This allows the holding elements to adapt their position and apply force more effectively, improving holding reliability while maintaining reasonable device complexity through controlled movement
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational displacement of holding elements changes the geometric parameters of the holding mechanism, allowing adjustment of holding force distribution and contact points. This parameter change enables improved holding properties without requiring completely redesigning the entire device structure
2Reliability
If rotationally displaceable holding elements are used, then the holding properties are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler merges the motion control of multiple holding elements into a single coordinated mechanism. By coupling the rotational displacements, the system achieves improved holding properties through coordinated movement while avoiding the complexity of independently controlling each holding element
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates and coordinates the rotational displacements between holding elements. This intermediary component simplifies the overall control structure while enabling the complex coordinated motion needed for improved holding properties
Data Source
AI summary
A sample container carrier for holding a laboratory sample container and for transporting the held laboratory sample container in a laboratory sample distribution system is presented. The sample container carrier comprises a first holding element and a second holding element. The first holding element and the second holding element are rotationally displaceable towards and/or away from each other for holding the laboratory sample container. The sample container carrier comprises a coupler. The coupler is connected to the first holding element and to the second holding element such that the coupler couples rotational displacements of the first holding element and the second holding element with each other. The coupler comprises a ring-segment shape for inserting the laboratory sample container to be held by the coupler.