Sample Rack Rotation Assembly for Analysis Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample analysis systems face challenges in efficiently rotating sample racks to different orientations during the analysis process, which can hinder precise testing and data collection, especially in urinalysis where urine chemistry and sediment analysis require accurate positioning and orientation of sample racks.
Innovation Solution
A sample analysis system equipped with a rack handler that includes a rotation assembly with an engagement element and a motor, capable of rotating the sample rack from a first orientation to a second orientation along a travel path, utilizing a protrusion that engages with the sample rack's slot and interference grooves to pivot the rack about a vertical axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a transport system moves sample racks along a U-shaped travel path, then sample racks can be staged and transported to the test device, but the system lacks efficient rotation capability to change rack orientations during the analysis process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport function and rotation function into a single integrated rack handler. The handler includes both a transport mechanism that moves racks along a U-shaped path and a rotation assembly with an engagement element that can pivot the rack about a vertical axis, eliminating the need for separate transport and rotation devices
Solution Approach 2:
The rack handler is designed as a multi-functional device that can both transport sample racks along the travel path and rotate them to different orientations. The engagement element with protrusion and slot interface provides universal compatibility for both linear movement and rotational movement of the same rack
2Measurement precision
If the sample rack is moved along a fixed travel path, then transport efficiency is maintained, but precise positioning and orientation adjustment during analysis is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The rack handler transitions from a static fixed-path transport system to a dynamic system that can adjust the rack orientation mid-process. The rotation assembly allows the rack to be pivoted to different angles while remaining on the travel path, enabling precise positioning for different types of analysis without requiring complete removal and repositioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotation assembly is added to the rack handler, then rack orientation can be changed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the motor and the sample rack. The motor rotates the engagement element, which then engages with the slot in the rack to transmit rotational motion. This intermediary approach allows rotation capability to be added without requiring direct motor-to-rack coupling, simplifying the overall design
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 solution enables precise and efficient movement and orientation of sample racks, enhancing the analysis process by ensuring accurate sample positioning and facilitating further testing, thereby improving the reliability and effectiveness of sample analysis systems.
Implementation Method 1
a motor coupled to the engagement element and being operable to cause rotation of the engagement element
Implementation Method 2
Rotation of the engagement element when the protrusion engages the slot causes the sample rack to rotate about a vertical axis
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment is a sample analysis system for analyzing a sample that includes at least one test device for analyzing the sample. The system also includes a rack handler operable to move a sample from a first location to a second location along a travel path. The rack handler has a rotation assembly including a) an engagement element for engagement with the sample rack, and b) a motor coupled to the engagement element and is operable to cause rotation of the engagement element. The rotation assembly rotates the sample rack from a first orientation into a second orientation along the travel path when the engagement element engages the sample rack.