Sample Loading Unit With Flow Limiting for Test Tube Blockage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample processing systems face blockage issues when a large number of test tubes are poured into the feed bin in a short time, leading to disruptions in the orderly processing of disordered test tubes.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing unit equipped with a flow limiting mechanism that includes a flow limiting mechanism to control the flow of sample containers, featuring a transmission channel that tapers towards the storage space, a flow limiting component extended into the storage space, and an adjusting mechanism to regulate the channel's dimensions, ensuring controlled entry of sample containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large number of test tubes are poured into the feed bin in a short time, then the productivity of sample processing is improved, but blockage of test tubes occurs causing reliability to deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flow limiting mechanism is pre-configured in the feed bin to control the rate at which test tubes enter the processing area. By establishing this flow control structure beforehand, the system prevents blockage before it occurs, allowing high-volume pouring without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The flow limiting mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the feed bin and the processing area. It mediates the flow of test tubes by providing a controlled passage that regulates entry rate, thus resolving the contradiction between high throughput and smooth flow
2Device complexity
If the feed bin volume is limited, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to handle large volume intake deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The feed bin system is segmented into two functional zones: a bulk storage area for receiving large volumes of test tubes and a controlled flow area with the flow limiting mechanism. This segmentation allows the simple feed bin structure to handle bulk intake while the flow control section manages the transition to processing, maintaining both simplicity and high productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
A sample processing unit, a sample loading unit and a sample analysis system. The sample processing unit includes a sample loading component, a transfer component and an output component. The sample loading component includes first and second feed bins, a feeding mechanism and a flow limiting mechanism, the first feed bin forms a storage space storing sample containers received by the second feed bin and flowing from the second feed bin into the first feed bin, the feeding mechanism is connected to the first feed bin and transports the sample containers in the storage space to the transfer component one by one. When the sample containers flow from the second feed bin into the first feed bin, the flow limiting mechanism is configured to limit quantity of sample containers flowing into the storage space, and the storage space is capable of storing multiple sample containers.