Sample Handling Device with Swivel Track Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample handling devices in laboratory automation systems lack precise positioning, robustness, and flexibility, particularly in distributing and processing multiple sample tubes efficiently between stations.
Innovation Solution
A sample handling device comprising two rotatable carousels with radially distributed recesses and a swivelable/rotatable track switch transfer element allows for precise positioning and transfer of sample tube carriers between carousels, enabling flexible operation and error handling by moving carriers along curved paths and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single carousel is used for sample tube handling, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning precision and operational flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sample handling function into multiple independent carousels (first carousel, second carousel, third carousel), each capable of precise positioning. This segmentation allows each carousel to be optimized for specific tasks while maintaining overall system precision without requiring a single overly complex carousel to handle all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multiple carousels arranged in a spatial configuration with transfer elements positioned between them. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables precise positioning across different operational zones while distributing the complexity across multiple simpler, identical modules rather than concentrating it in one complex unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple carousels are added to improve operational flexibility, then the flexibility and error handling capability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent carousels that can operate autonomously. Each carousel maintains the same structural design, allowing for flexible operational configurations while keeping individual module complexity manageable. The modular nature enables easy addition or removal of carousels based on specific operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each carousel is designed with universal functionality to handle sample tubes, empty carriers, and defective carriers. The identical structural design of multiple carousels allows them to perform multiple roles (processing, storage, error handling) interchangeably, increasing operational flexibility without proportionally increasing the complexity of each individual component.
3Measurement precision
If a track switch transfer element is used between carousels, then the positioning precision and transfer accuracy improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track switch serves as an intermediary transfer element positioned between carousels. It provides precise control over carrier transfer operations, enabling accurate positioning and selective routing between different carousels. This dedicated transfer mechanism ensures high transfer accuracy while isolating the complexity of transfer control in a specialized component rather than requiring complex integration across all system elements.
4Area of stationary object
If carousels are arranged with passage connections for carrier transfer, then the space usage is optimized, but the reliability for precise positioning may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The carousels utilize circular radial patterns for recess distribution, and the track switch enables curved path transfer between carousels. This curved, radial geometry optimizes space utilization within each carousel while the controlled transfer mechanism maintains positioning reliability by providing precise entry and exit points through the passages, ensuring carriers are accurately positioned during transitions.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a sample handling device for a laboratory automation system comprising a first carousel (2) with a disc (20) supported rotatably about a first axis (20), a second carousel (3) with a disc (30) supported rotatably about a second axis (30) parallel to the first axis (20), and at least one transfer element (4, 104, 204) arranged between the first carousel (2) and the second carousel(3), wherein each disc (21, 31) has a plurality of recesses (22, 32) distributed radially about a perimeter of the disc (21, 31),wherein each recess(22, 32) is arranged for receiving a sample tube carrier(5),wherein the first carousel (2) and the second carousel (3) are communicated via a passage allowing for a transfer of sample tube carriers (50, 52) between the first carousel (2)and the second carousel (3), wherein the at least one transfer element is a track switch (104, 204), which track switch (104, 204) when arranged in a rest position at least partly closes the passage to separate the first carousel (2) from the second carousel (3), and wherein the track switch (104, 204) is arranged for being swiveled and/or rotated about a third axis (40) parallel to the first axis (20) out of the rest position for selectively transferring a sample tube carrier (50, 52) from the first carousel (2) to the second carousel (3) via the passage.