Sealer for Test Sample Devices with Spring-Loaded Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Vitek System for biological sample analysis requires two separate machines for filling and sealing, and subsequent optical analysis, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming, necessitating an improvement in the sealing process for efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A sealer assembly with a retractable shield for safety, a spring-loaded member for precise alignment and stabilization of the test sample device, and a motor-driven cutting element assembly that allows for precise cutting and sealing of the transfer tube, integrated into an automated sample testing instrument.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual insertion into sealer module is used, then sealing can be performed, but labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument performs sealing automatically without requiring manual intervention. The transfer tube is automatically positioned and sealed by the instrument's integrated sealing mechanism, eliminating the need for operators to manually insert cards into separate sealer modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate filler/sealer machine is used, then filling and sealing can be performed, but device complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filling and sealing functions are merged into a single integrated instrument. The card is filled with sample through a transfer tube and then sealed within the same instrument, eliminating the need for separate filler and sealer machines.
3Manufacturing precision
If transfer tube cutting is performed manually, then sealing can be completed, but precision and safety decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical cutting action is replaced with an automated cutting mechanism within the instrument. The transfer tube is automatically cut to the required length by the instrument's cutting element, providing consistent precision and eliminating exposure to hot cutting wires.
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
The solution enables easier, more accurate, and safer alignment and cutting of transfer tubes, reducing labor and time required for sample preparation, while enhancing the precision and efficiency of the sealing process within a single automated instrument.
Implementation Method 1
a heated wire 402... The hot wire 402 causes the plastic transfer tube 102 to melt
Implementation Method 2
The hot wire 402 causes the plastic transfer tube 102 to melt, separating the majority of the transfer tube
Data Source
AI summary
A sealer for a sample testing instrument is disclosed that cuts and seals a fluid conduit that connects a test sample device with a fluid receptacle containing a fluid sample. The sealer includes an enclosure and a protective shield to protect a user or technician from contact with the cutting element assembly in the sealer. The cutting element assembly includes a spring-loaded element that engages the test sample device and holds it in a fixed position while a cutting element (e.g., hot wire) cuts the fluid conduit. A motor driving the cutting element assembly is positioned at an angle having both vertical and horizontal components, whereby adjustment of the motor firmware allows for adjustment of the position of the cutting element relative to the instrument in both horizontal and vertical directions.