Sample Measuring Device Open/Close Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample measurement devices face challenges in preventing the falling of sample containers from racks, especially when a pressing force is applied from above, due to the need for a simple yet effective mechanism that maintains the container in a closed state without easy opening.
Innovation Solution
A sample measurement device with a rack and an open/close mechanism that changes states based on the direction of the applied force, using a movable member and deformation member to support and secure the sample container, preventing opening when a pressing force is applied vertically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple holding mechanism is used in the sample storage unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of preventing sample container falling-off deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The open/close mechanism uses a pressing member with different functional surfaces: a first pressing surface that applies force in the opening direction and a second pressing surface that applies force in the closing direction. This local differentiation of pressing directions at different locations of the pressing member enables the mechanism to respond differently to various force applications, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable container retention
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member acts as an intermediary between the sample container and the holding structure. It translates vertical pressing forces (which should close the mechanism) into appropriate holding actions, while allowing horizontal opening forces to activate the release function. This intermediary component mediates the force direction conversion needed to achieve both simplicity and reliability
2Ease of operation
If the open/close mechanism is sensitive to opening forces, then the ease of operation for withdrawing sample containers is improved, but the reliability against erroneous opening due to pressing forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The open/close mechanism is designed with asymmetric force response characteristics: it is highly sensitive to horizontal opening forces that enable easy container withdrawal, while being resistant to vertical pressing forces that might cause erroneous opening. The pressing member's geometry and positioning create this asymmetric behavior, allowing the mechanism to distinguish between intentional opening actions and accidental pressing
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pressing member have different functional properties: the first pressing surface is positioned and oriented to respond to opening forces, while the second pressing surface responds to closing forces. This local functional differentiation enables the mechanism to be sensitive to opening forces for ease of operation while maintaining resistance to erroneous opening from pressing forces
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter is attached to each sample storage unit in a rack. Each adapter includes a pair of arms, and these arms include a pair of lower-end structural bodies. An opening force being imparted to a pair of the lower-end structural bodies in the horizontal direction when a sample container is mounted on the pair of lower-end structural bodies causes the bodies to retreat towards the outside in the horizontal direction. In the subsequent opened state, the sample container is passed from the rack to a lifting mechanism. In the closed state, pressure being applied to the sample container in the vertical direction causes a stopper segment, which is contained in each attachment, to be lowered. In this lowered state, the opening motion of the pair of arms is restricted.