Sample Tube Locking Assembly With Ramp Block for Rotation-Free Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems face challenges in securely attaching sample tubes due to handling difficulties, risk of damage from rotation, and inconsistent sealing, leading to potential leaks and damage during testing.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly with a movable ramp block and lever mechanism that allows for secure attachment of sample tubes to a manifold without rotation, providing consistent force and haptic feedback for proper sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sample tubes are loaded using threaded connectors requiring rotation, then the sample tubes can be attached to the manifold, but friction during rotation can damage the sample tubes, sealing mechanisms, and sealing members
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the sample tube or sealing mechanism against the manifold (conventional threaded connector approach), the invention inverts the approach by having the ramp block rotate and push the sample tube assembly linearly into the manifold. This eliminates friction between the sample tube/sealing mechanism and the manifold during the attachment process, while still achieving secure attachment through the ramp block's linear pushing action.
2Reliability
If sample tubes are loaded by rotating threaded connectors, then attachment can be achieved, but inconsistent rotation can cause over or under compression of sealing members resulting in inadequate sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a feedback mechanism where the ramp block's linear movement is directly coupled to the sample tube assembly's insertion depth. As the ramp block moves linearly, it pushes the sample tube assembly into the manifold with consistent force, and the system provides feedback (through the mechanical coupling and haptic feedback from detents) to ensure the sealing members are compressed to the correct degree, eliminating over or under compression issues.
3Ease of operation
If sample tubes are handled with multiple loose parts requiring one-handed operation, then loading can be performed, but handling difficulty increases and risk of dropping damaged tubes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple separate components (ramp block, lever mechanism, drive shaft, detents, and sample tube assembly) into an integrated locking assembly system. The ramp block itself incorporates slots for receiving the sample tube assembly, surface features for engagement, and positioning features for the drive shaft. This consolidation reduces the number of loose parts the user must handle separately while maintaining ease of operation through the unified lever-actuated mechanism.
4Reliability
If sample tubes are attached using conventional threaded connectors, then attachment can be achieved, but the rotation process can cause damage to the sample tube or sealing mechanisms due to friction
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the conventional threaded connector mechanical system (which relies on rotational friction) with a ramp block linear pushing system. The attachment is achieved through linear motion and direct contact force from the ramp block's surface features, eliminating the rotational friction that damages sample tubes and sealing mechanisms while still providing secure attachment through the mechanical coupling of the ramp block to the manifold.
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
Enables reliable and damage-free loading of sample tubes, ensuring consistent sealing and reducing wear on the tubes and sealing members, thus preventing leaks and extending their lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The feedback assembly can include a plurality of detents defined along the driveshaft and a plunger assembly mounted adjacent thereto. The plunger assembly can include a spring loaded plunger that can be selectively received within the detents to provide haptic feedback to the user.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is, in one aspect, directed to a locking assembly for securing a sample tube assembly to a sample manifold of a measurement system. The locking assembly includes a ramp block having one or more slots defined therein and configured to at least partially receive a portion of the sample tube assembly. The ramp block also includes a plurality of surface features defined therealong and configured to engage and move the sample tube assembly toward and into engagement with the sample manifold. The ramp block further is movable between a plurality of positions including an open position for allowing the sample tube assembly to be received through the one or more slots or openings, and a closed position substantially sealing the sample tube assembly against or within the sample manifold. Other aspects also are described.