Self-Propelled Sample Holder Control via Near-Field Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems for medical samples with self-propelled sample holders are complex and costly, prone to disruptions due to the need for sophisticated control systems and multiple communication channels, leading to potential downtime and economic losses if the drive system fails.
Innovation Solution
A conveying system with self-propelled sample holders that utilize near-field transmission means along the conveyor track for control data, eliminating the need for complex on-board control systems and allowing decentralized, flexible control through signal transmission means arranged at predetermined positions, enabling efficient and cost-effective operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If self-propelled sample holders with sophisticated control systems are used, then the sample holders can be controlled flexibly and positioned accurately, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces signal transmission means as an intermediary component between the control system and sample holders. These signal transmission means are arranged at predetermined positions along the conveyor track and transmit control data to sample holders without requiring complex on-board control systems. The intermediary simplifies the overall system by centralizing control signals in the conveyor track infrastructure rather than requiring intelligent control electronics in each sample holder.
2Reliability
If multiple communication channels are implemented for sample holder control, then reliable control data transmission is achieved, but the system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication function by arranging signal transmission means at predetermined positions along the conveyor track rather than requiring multiple complex communication channels. Each signal transmission means at a specific position provides localized control data transmission to sample holders passing that position. This segmentation approach maintains reliable communication by distributing signal transmission across multiple simple, predetermined positions rather than relying on a few complex centralized communication channels.
3Device complexity
If drive technology is located in the conveyor track, then the system structure is simplified, but the entire system stops when the drive fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drive functionality by providing individual drive motors in each sample holder rather than a centralized drive system. This segmentation means that if one sample holder's drive fails, only that individual sample holder is affected and can be removed or replaced without stopping the entire conveyor system. The signal transmission means in the conveyor track provide control signals to multiple sample holders simultaneously, maintaining system continuity while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
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
This design simplifies the control of sample holders, reduces costs, and minimizes downtime by allowing flexible control of driving parameters and position-independent communication, ensuring continuous operation of the laboratory system.
Implementation Method 1
signal transmission means that are set up to form a near-field transmission path with the signal receiving means
Implementation Method 2
at least one friction wheel that can be driven by the drive motor for transmitting a drive force to the conveyor track
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
To further develop a conveying system for material samples, in particular medical samples, comprising a conveying track forming at least one conveying section and a plurality of self-propelled sample holders, each designed to hold a sample container and capable of being moved along the conveying track with adjustable travel parameters, each sample holder having a drive motor, an energy storage device for supplying the drive motor with drive energy, and at least one friction wheel driven by the drive motor for transmitting a drive force to the conveying track, and with a control system for controlling the movements of the self-propelled sample holders, in such a way that efficient and fast-acting control of the movements of the sample holders is possible with a simple design of the sample holders, it is proposed that signal transmission means (14, 15) be arranged along the conveying track at predetermined positions in the conveying track.which are set up to form a near-field transmission link with signal receiving means arranged in the sample holders, wherein the signal transmission means (14, 15) are connected to the control system and are set up to transmit control data relating to the setting of the driving parameters via the near-field transmission link to the self-propelled sample holders.