Sample Rack Interference Groove for Handler Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample racks for urinalysis systems lack efficient engagement mechanisms with rack handlers, leading to inefficient sample handling and orientation changes during analysis, which can hinder precise testing and data accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The sample rack design includes a rack body with a receptacle for sample collection units and interior surfaces defining a slot with an interference groove, allowing for secure engagement with a rack handler's protrusion, enabling controlled rotation and orientation changes along a serpentine travel path for enhanced sample handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional sample rack design is used, then the structure is simple, but the engagement with rack handler is inefficient and lacks precise orientation control
Solution Approach 1:
The rack body is divided into functional segments: a receptacle portion for holding sample collection units and an engagement portion with specific geometric features (slot and interference groove) for rack handler interaction. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its function independently while improving overall engagement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features (slot and interference groove) are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide precise orientation control during engagement with the rack handler. The asymmetric design ensures proper alignment and prevents incorrect positioning, thereby improving engagement reliability without requiring complex multi-component systems.
2Extent of automation
If the sample rack moves along a U-shaped travel path, then the handling process is automated, but the orientation changes during analysis may be imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The rack body is pre-configured with the engagement features (slot and interference groove) in specific orientations before entering the travel path. This preliminary configuration ensures that when the rack engages with the rack handler at different positions along the U-shaped path, the proper orientation is automatically achieved without requiring active orientation adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference groove and slot design allows the rack to self-align and self-orient during engagement with the rack handler. The geometric interference features automatically guide the rack into the correct orientation as it moves along the automated travel path, eliminating the need for separate orientation control systems.
3Productivity
If multiple sample racks are staged in the first leg, then the productivity increases, but the engagement efficiency with rack handler decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement features (slot and interference groove) are designed to be universally compatible with the rack handler mechanism, allowing the same engagement interface to work whether the rack is being loaded, unloaded, or repositioned. This multi-functionality enables efficient engagement regardless of the rack's position in the staging sequence, maintaining high productivity while preserving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the disclosure is a rack adapted to engage a rack handler. The rack includes a rack body. The rack body has a bottom, a top opposite the bottom, and a receptacle that extends from the top toward the bottom. The receptacle is sized to receive the sample collection unit. The rack body has a first interior surface that extends from the bottom toward the top, and a second interior surface that extends from the bottom toward the top. The second interior surface is opposite to the first interior surface so as to at least partially define a slot along the bottom. The rack body also includes an interference groove in the slot along at least one of the first interior surface and the second interior surface. The slot and the interference groove are sized to engage a portion of the rack handler.