Sample Analysis Rack Guide Layout for Flexible Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample analysis systems, despite being partially automated, face limitations in modularity, accuracy, and efficiency due to inflexible work surfaces, lack of precise rack detection, and inefficient tip handling and washing processes.
Innovation Solution
The system features a modular work surface with parallel guides for racks of varying widths, a magnetic sensor for precise rack detection, multiple pipette support, barcode recognition for resource identification, a star-shaped manifold for rapid washing, load cells for buffer verification, and distributed intelligence for control, optimizing rack placement, tip handling, and washing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed work surface design is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different rack widths is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface is divided into multiple parallel guides that can independently accommodate racks of different widths. Each guide acts as a modular unit that can be selectively engaged with racks, allowing the system to adapt to various rack configurations without requiring a completely different work surface structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel guides are designed with a universal interface that can work with racks of multiple widths. The guides themselves serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable rack positioning, and facilitate detection of rack presence through integrated magnetic sensors, eliminating the need for separate detection components.
2Measurement precision
If traditional detection methods are used, then the structure is simple, but the detection accuracy of rack presence is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical detection methods (such as physical switches or contact-based sensors) with magnetic field-based detection. Magnetic sensors detect the presence of racks by sensing changes in the magnetic field caused by magnetic elements attached to or integrated into the racks, providing non-contact, high-precision detection without mechanical wear.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic elements are introduced as intermediaries between the racks and the detection system. These magnetic elements modulate the magnetic field in a detectable way, allowing the magnetic sensors to accurately detect rack presence and position without direct mechanical contact or complex optical systems.
3Productivity
If single-tip handling is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity of sampling operations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pipette tips are mounted on a single movable bridge, combining several sampling functions into one movable unit. The bridge carries an array of tips that can simultaneously access multiple rack positions, allowing parallel sampling operations to be performed without requiring separate mechanisms for each tip.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-point sampling to multi-point sampling by arranging tips in a spatial array on the movable bridge. This dimensional expansion allows the system to cover multiple rack positions simultaneously, effectively increasing sampling throughput without proportionally increasing the number of independent actuators.
4Productivity
If linear washing manifold is used, then the structure is simple, but the washing efficiency and speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The washing manifold is designed with a star-shaped (radially symmetric) configuration instead of a linear arrangement. This curved, radiating structure allows multiple washing nozzles to converge on a central point or distribute washing fluid across multiple positions simultaneously, increasing washing efficiency without requiring a proportionally longer manifold.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold design pre-positions multiple washing outlets in optimal locations around the central washing zone. This preliminary geometric arrangement ensures that washing fluid can reach all necessary areas simultaneously or in rapid sequence, eliminating the need for sequential washing operations that would slow down the process.
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
This configuration enhances modularity, accuracy, and efficiency by allowing flexible rack placement, reducing handling time, minimizing pollution, and optimizing tip disposal, while ensuring precise control and monitoring through distributed intelligence.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor which can detect the interaction between a magnet placed on the work surface and a corresponding metallic element placed on the rack
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for the analysis of samples of the type comprising a work surface (10) on which are arranged a number of racks (4) to support tubes or containers, characterized in that the work surface (10) is realized by means of a plurality of parallel guides (11) having a cross section which is complementary matchable with a corresponding seat (44) of said rack (4), said seat (44) of said racks (4) having a width which is multiple of the value of the section of said guide (11) and having opposing portions (410) which are corresponding to the profile of the guides (11).