Slidable Autosampler Tray Assembly for Continuous Sample Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated sampling devices in laboratory settings face challenges in efficiently managing and accessing a large number of chemical or biochemical samples, particularly in maintaining continuous operation with limited preparation time, as existing systems often require manual intervention and lack efficient tray mechanisms for sample positioning.
Innovation Solution
A slidable tray assembly is introduced, allowing for translational movement between retracted and extended positions, aligning slots to facilitate the passage of a support post and enable easy access for a fluid probe, while supporting multiple sample vessels and allowing for automatic control of tray movement to optimize sample handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If samples are positioned on a stationary tray for access by a moveable sample probe, then the tray structure is simple and stable, but the sample access efficiency is reduced and continuous operation is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary tray into a movable tray assembly that can slide between retracted and extended positions. The tray assembly includes a movable tray supported by a support post that can translate along a guide rail, enabling dynamic repositioning of samples to optimize access efficiency while maintaining structural simplicity through guided linear motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the movable tray within a tray assembly housing that contains the support post and guide rail mechanisms. The tray assembly itself is nested within the autosampler body, allowing compact integration while enabling the tray to extend outward for sample access and retract for space optimization, thus resolving the contradiction between accessibility and compact structure.
2Productivity
If a moveable tray is used to position samples for access by the sample probe, then sample access efficiency is improved, but the risk of sample mixing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the tray into individually addressable sample positions, each with its own containment structure. The movable tray can be positioned to access specific sample locations without disturbing others, and the tray design includes separate wells or compartments for each sample, preventing cross-contamination while enabling efficient sequential access to multiple samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the support post and guide rail as intermediary elements that enable controlled movement of the tray. The guide rail acts as a mediator that constrains the tray to precise linear motion along a defined path, ensuring that the tray reaches exact positions for sample access without lateral deviations that could cause sample mixing, thus maintaining reliability during dynamic operation.
3Productivity
If manual intervention is used for sample positioning, then the system is simple to operate, but continuous operation with limited preparation time is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the tray assembly to automatically position samples for access by the sample probe without manual intervention. The movable tray can be controlled to slide to predetermined positions based on sampling sequences, and the system includes automated control mechanisms that manage tray movement, sample selection, and probe positioning, allowing continuous operation while maintaining ease of use through programmable automation.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample tray assembly includes a first tray. The first tray defines a first slot and is disposed on a generally horizontally-oriented plane. The sample tray assembly also includes a second tray adjacent to the first tray. The second tray is configured for translational movement substantially parallel to the generally horizontally-oriented plane of the first tray between a retracted position and an extended position. The second tray defines a second slot. The second slot and the first slot are substantially aligned when the second tray is in the retracted position. The sample tray additionally includes a base member supporting the first tray. The second tray is slidably coupled with the base member.