Sequential Centrifuge Indexing System for Sample Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional batch centrifuges face inefficiencies due to idle time and dwell time issues when processing discrete samples with varying arrival probabilities, leading to increased costs and reduced precision in analytical processes.
Innovation Solution
A sequential centrifuge system with a drive subsystem, rotor, and indexing system that allows for continuous processing of samples by loading and centrifuging one sample at a time, maintaining balance through dynamic indexing and control systems, and removing samples once they reach the desired relative centrifugal force and time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional batch centrifuges process multiple samples simultaneously, then throughput is improved, but idle time and dwell time increase due to varying sample arrival probabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The batch processing system is segmented into multiple sequential processing stations, each handling individual samples. The centrifuge is divided into multiple centrifugation chambers that can operate independently on different samples, allowing continuous processing without idle time between batches.
Solution Approach 2:
Samples are prepared and loaded into the centrifuge before the actual centrifugation process begins. The system pre-positions multiple samples in ready-to-process locations, so that when one sample completes centrifugation, the next sample is immediately ready to begin, eliminating idle time.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional batch centrifuges wait for minimum samples before processing, then balance is maintained, but dwell time increases for early arriving samples
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifuge system dynamically adjusts the number of samples processed in each batch based on real-time sample availability. Rather than waiting for a fixed minimum number of samples, the system can initiate centrifugation with varying numbers of samples by dynamically repositioning counterweights or adjusting rotor balance in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifuge system automatically balances itself by detecting sample distribution and adjusting counterweights or rotor position without external intervention. This self-balancing capability allows immediate processing of available samples without waiting for additional samples to arrive.
3Measurement precision
If sequential centrifugation processes one sample at a time, then precision is improved, but equipment footprint is minimized
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple centrifugation chambers are nested within a single centrifuge housing, with each chamber capable of independent operation. This nested configuration allows sequential processing of multiple samples within a compact footprint, maintaining precision while minimizing space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from horizontal expansion (multiple large centrifuges side-by-side) to vertical integration (multiple chambers stacked or nested within one unit). This dimensional change allows sequential processing capability within a minimized footprint by utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently.
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 approach reduces idle time, increases throughput, minimizes equipment footprint, and enhances analytical precision by ensuring consistent application of centrifugal force and time to samples, while allowing for immediate processing of critical samples without compromising efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The centrifuge subjects the samples to a centrifugal force. The amount of centrifugal force is directly proportional to the mass of the sample, the distance the sample is from the spin axis, and the angular velocity or spin rate squared.
Implementation Method 2
density gradient centrifugation, which is carried out in at least one layer of gradient medium added to the sample container
Implementation Method 3
an indexing system that advances an index from a current available sample reservoir to a next available sample reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a sequential centrifuge for centrifuging discrete samples. Methods of more efficiently centrifuging discrete samples sequentially are also provided. The apparatus and methods for sequentially centrifuging discrete samples provide improved operating efficiencies over conventional batch centrifuges. Such advantages include reducing dwell time, increasing system throughput, reducing sample processing system footprint, and improving precision of the analytical process. The sequential centrifuge further provides the capability of handling critical samples without compromising the operating efficiencies achieved in centrifuging discrete samples in a sequential manner.