Sample Measuring Device Rack Transport Guide Block Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sample measurement devices that measure radioactive substances using liquid scintillators face increased costs due to complex mechanisms required for downward withdrawal of sample containers, and they often necessitate multiple drive sources and controllers for operation.
Innovation Solution
A sample measurement device with a rack-transporting mechanism that includes a guide block to operate the open/close mechanism of the sample storage unit, allowing for downward withdrawal of sample containers without a dedicated drive source or controller, and utilizing the rack-transporting force to simplify the structure and facilitate light shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex mechanism is provided to withdraw the sample container downward from the rack, then the sample container can be transported to the measurement chamber, but the cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample container withdrawal function with the rack transport function. The guide block that guides the rack during transport also operates the open/close mechanism to release the sample container. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate drive sources and controllers, reducing device complexity while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide block serves multiple functions: it guides the rack during transport and simultaneously operates the open/close mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of dedicated components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity and cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple drive sources and controllers are provided for operation, then the device can perform various functions, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple drive sources into a single rack-transporting mechanism. The guide block operates both the rack guidance and the open/close mechanism using the same driving force, thereby reducing the number of drive sources and controllers while maintaining necessary device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the rack-transporting force itself to operate the open/close mechanism, rather than requiring separate dedicated drive sources. This self-service approach reduces the overall number of drive sources needed in the system.
3Ease of operation
If the measurement chamber is positioned above the transport surface, then the rack can be easily transported, but the shielding structure becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by positioning the measurement chamber below the transport surface rather than above it. This inversion allows the heavy shielding structure to be placed on the lower side where it does not interfere with rack transport, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining protective functions.
4Ease of operation
If a shaft is provided to support the sample container during lifting, then the sample container can be transported, but light shielding in the lifting path becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the lifting direction by transporting the sample container downward from the rack to the measurement chamber below, rather than lifting it upward. This eliminates the shaft in the lifting path and allows for effective light shielding in the downward transport path.
Data Source
AI summary
Each adapter disposed on a rack includes a pair of arms that configure an opening/closing mechanism. During rack conveyance, a guiding block is slotted between a pair of legs contained in the rack. The opening/closing mechanism being abutted against the guiding block causes the opening/closing mechanism to perform an opening/closing operation. When the state of the opening/closing mechanism is changed from closed to open, a pre-measurement sample container is passed from a sample storage unit to a lifting mechanism. Subsequent to the post-measurement sample container being returned to the sample storage unit, the state of the opening/closing mechanism is changed from open to closed.