Self-Centering Module Mount for Fast Liquid Handler Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated liquid handling systems lack a robust and efficient mechanism for quickly attaching, adjusting, and removing modules from actuating devices, limiting flexibility and precision in liquid handling operations.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering mounting system comprising a base plate, a locking mechanism with a groove and a locking part, and an adjustably attached mounting rail, allowing for rapid adjustment and secure locking of modules relative to the base plate of a manipulator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a robust attachment mechanism is used to securely mount modules, then reliability of attachment is improved, but speed of attachment and adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states through rotational movement of the locking shaft, enabling rapid attachment and detachment without complex manual operations. The dynamic state change allows secure mounting when locked and quick release when unlocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking part is separated from the mounting rail, allowing the rail to be independently positioned and adjusted before locking. This extraction enables the rail to be moved freely in the open position and then securely fixed when locked.
2Stability of the object's composition
If modules are firmly fixed to the base plate, then positional stability is improved, but adjustability and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system allows the rail to transition between movable and fixed states. When the locking mechanism is in the open position, the rail can be freely adjusted to different positions. When locked, the rail becomes firmly fixed, providing positional stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: the base plate, the locking mechanism, and the mounting rail. This segmentation allows the rail to be independently positioned and adjusted before being locked to the base plate, enabling both adjustability and stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules are mounted on the manipulator, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism and mounting rail design allows multiple modules to be mounted on the manipulator using the same standardized interface. Each module can be independently attached and adjusted using identical locking mechanisms, simplifying the overall system despite increased functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system uses modular components that can be independently assembled and configured. Each module has its own locking mechanism that operates independently, allowing multiple modules to be mounted without increasing the complexity of individual mounting operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for mounting a device on a manipulator, wherein a second unit is adjustably attached to a first unit so that it is movable in at least one direction with respect to the base plate and wherein the first unit has at least a locked position and an open position, the mounting rail being movable with respect to the first unit when the first unit is in the open position and wherein the mounting rail is fixed with respect to the first unit when the first unit is in the closed position.