Sample Holder Transport With Passive Mechanical Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray analysis systems face challenges in reliably and efficiently handling and transporting sample holders due to the risk of sample dispersal during power outages when using electronically actuated gripping devices.

Innovation Solution

A sample handling apparatus with passive mechanical engagement between engagement arms and the sample holder, ensuring secure holding without the need for electronic actuation, allowing for stable transport and operation even in the absence of power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If electronically actuated gripping devices are used to hold and transport sample holders, then automation and ease of operation are improved, but reliability deteriorates during power outages when gripping parts may be dropped

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of sample holder handlingVSAvoidsecure holding during power outages

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electronically actuated gripping devices with a passive mechanical engagement system. The engagement arm is shaped to co-operate with an engagement member on the sample holder, creating a mechanical interlock that holds the sample holder securely without requiring electronic actuation or power supply, thus maintaining reliability during power outages while preserving ease of operation through automated transport head movement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement arm and engagement member form a self-locking mechanical system that automatically maintains gripping force without external power. The shaped engagement components create a passive mechanical interlock that self-maintains the holding function throughout transport operations, eliminating the need for continuous electronic actuation or power supply

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If moving gripping parts are used to hold the sample holder, then adaptability for different sample types is improved, but device complexity increases due to electronic actuation mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling capability for various sample typesVSAvoidelectronic actuation mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates electronic actuation mechanisms by using a passive mechanical engagement system. The engagement arm's shape is designed to co-operate with the engagement member, creating a simple mechanical interlock that provides adaptability for different sample types through the transport head's positioning capability rather than complex electronic gripping adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If passive mechanical engagement is used to hold the sample holder, then reliability during power outages is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of automated gripping control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure holding without powerVSAvoidautomated gripping control

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent maintains ease of operation by keeping the transport head's automated movement capability while replacing only the gripping mechanism with passive mechanical engagement. The engagement arm's fixed shape provides reliable holding during power outages, and the transport head's automated positioning system maintains operational ease by automatically moving the engaged sample holder to required locations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Facilitates reliable and efficient X-ray analysis by maintaining sample holder stability through mechanical engagement, reducing the risk of sample dispersal and instrument damage, and providing operational flexibility for various sample types.

Implementation Method 1

the sample handling apparatus of the present invention can use passive mechanical engagement/co-operation (for example, based on the force of gravity) between the first engagement arm of the holding arrangement and the engagement member of the sample holder

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP4632362A1A sample handling apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.10.15 PANALYTICAL BV

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AI summary

The invention provides a sample handling apparatus for transporting a sample holder. The sample handling apparatus comprises a frame, a sample holder having an engagement member, a transport head mounted to the frame, and an actuator arrangement configured to move the transport head on the frame. The transport head comprises a holding arrangement. The holding arrangement includes a first engagement arm for engaging the sample holder. The engagement arm is shaped to co-operate with the engagement member of the sample holder to hold the sample holder.