Sample Measurement Device Holder Detection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample measurement apparatuses are inefficient in processing a large number of samples per unit time, limiting their sample processing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A sample measurement apparatus is designed with a transfer unit that includes a holder with a detection unit to identify and grasp sample containers, a pneumatic pressure system for agitation and aspiration, and a controller to manage the processing sequence, enabling efficient transfer and analysis of multiple samples by optimizing the handling and detection of sample containers on a rack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional holder design is used to transfer sample containers, then the structure is simple, but the detection of sample container presence and positioning is unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
An operating unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the detector and the sample container. This operating unit moves together with the holder and serves as a reliable indicator for sample container presence, allowing the detector to accurately determine whether a sample container is loaded without directly detecting the container itself
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly detecting the sample container, the system detects the position of the operating unit which copies the holder's movement. The operating unit acts as a surrogate indicator, providing reliable detection information about sample container presence through its positional relationship with the holder
2Measurement precision
If the holder moves to detect sample container presence, then detection accuracy improves, but the detection system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit is merged with the holder structure, with the operating unit being integrally attached to the holder. This integration allows the detection system to leverage the holder's existing movement and positioning mechanisms, achieving precise detection without requiring separate complex detection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The holder structure serves its own detection function by incorporating the operating unit that moves with it. The holder's movement automatically provides the detection reference, eliminating the need for additional independent detection mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity
3Measurement precision
If multiple sample containers are processed sequentially, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit detects sample container presence and validity before the actual measurement process begins. This preliminary detection ensures that only valid samples are processed, preventing measurement errors and rework, thereby maintaining high measurement accuracy while enabling efficient sequential processing of multiple samples
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention makes it possible to improve sample processing efficiency. A sample measurement apparatus (10) includes a processing unit (14) that aspirates a sample inside a sample container (100) and measures the sample; a transfer unit (12) that includes a holder (12a) to hold the sample container (100), and that picks up the sample container (100) from a rack (200) capable of storing the sample containers (100) at storage positions on a row and transfers the sample container (100) to the processing unit (14); and a detection unit (13) that is attached to the holder (12a) and is movable integrally with the holder (12a), and that detects whether or not there is the sample container (100) at each of the storage positions.