Single-Motor Container Rotation for Barcode Alignment and Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated analytical instruments require complex systems with two motors to rotate sample containers for barcode reading and mixing, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A device using a single motor and linear actuator with a lead screw and container engaging member to rotate sample containers, allowing for both barcode alignment and sample mixing, reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two motors are used to rotate containers, then the container rotation function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate motor functions into a single motor system. The first motor performs dual functions: (1) rotating the container via friction engagement, and (2) driving the linear actuator through a belt and pulley mechanism to position the engaging member. This merging eliminates the need for a second motor while maintaining all required rotation and positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single motor is designed to perform multiple functions: it directly rotates the container for barcode reading and sample mixing, and simultaneously drives the linear actuator that controls the positioning of the container engaging member. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of motor components required in the system.
2Reliability
If two motors are used to rotate containers, then the container rotation function is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate motor functions into a single motor system. The first motor performs dual functions: (1) rotating the container via friction engagement, and (2) driving the linear actuator through a belt and pulley mechanism to position the engaging member. This merging eliminates the need for a second motor while maintaining all required rotation and positioning capabilities.
3Device complexity
If a single motor is used to rotate the container, then the device complexity is reduced, but the motor must perform multiple functions
Solution Approach 1:
The single motor is designed to perform multiple functions: it directly rotates the container for barcode reading and sample mixing, and simultaneously drives the linear actuator that controls the positioning of the container engaging member. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of motor components required in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
A belt and pulley system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the motor and the linear actuator. This intermediary allows the motor's rotational output to be efficiently converted into linear motion for positioning the engaging member, while the motor itself remains dedicated to container rotation. This separation of functions through an intermediary reduces complexity compared to using two motors.
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 efficient rotation of sample containers using a single motor, effectively aligning barcodes for reading and mixing samples, thereby simplifying the system and reducing operational complexity while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator having a motor operably connected to a first end of a lead screw... The motor is configured to rotate the lead screw... A nut is threaded onto helical threads on the lead screw. The nut is slidably mounted on the vertical linear guide between the motor and the container engaging member.
Implementation Method 2
Rotating the container in the first direction with the container engaging member... causes the container to rotate in the first direction
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~5C
AI summary
Described herein are devices and methods for rotating a container (e.g., a capped tube containing a sample). The disclosure provides devices and methods of rotating a container using one motor, resulting in a less complex device. The device moves and rotates a container rotating member which in turn is used to rotate a container. The devices can be used in automated analytical instruments (e.g., automated blood analyzers) that automatically transport and detect the identity of sample containers. The devices can also be used in instruments that automatically spin sample containers to mix or homogenize the sample.