Specimen Preparation Device Liquid Pool Transfer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen preparation methods for microscope observations often result in bubble mixtures when transferring observation objects onto plates, leading to inadequate specimen preparation and the use of complex, bulky devices for static electricity-based mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A specimen preparation device with a conveyance unit featuring a hydrophilic region and a water repellent region on the conveyance belt, where the observation object is placed on a liquid pool in the hydrophilic region and transferred onto a plate with a liquid supply system to prevent bubble formation, using a tilting mechanism to ensure accurate placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static electricity mechanism is used to hold and transfer observation object, then transfer capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the static electricity mechanism with a liquid pool-based transfer system. The observation object is placed on a liquid pool formed on the conveyance belt, and the liquid pool carries the object to the plate without requiring electrostatic holding or release mechanisms. This substitution eliminates complex electrostatic control systems while maintaining reliable transfer capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a liquid pool (hydraulic element) to convey and transfer the observation object. The liquid pool is supplied to the conveyance belt and forms a meniscus that holds and transports the object through capillary action and surface tension, replacing the need for mechanical or electrostatic holding mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If contact transfer method is used, then transfer simplicity is improved, but bubble mixture occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a liquid pool as an intermediary medium between the observation object and the plate. The object is transferred via the liquid pool rather than direct contact between solid surfaces. The liquid pool forms a meniscus that smoothly transitions the object from the conveyance belt to the plate, preventing air entrapment and bubble formation that would occur with direct solid-to-solid contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the transfer medium from solid-to-solid contact to liquid-mediated transfer. By using a liquid pool with specific surface tension and viscosity properties, the system enables smooth object transfer without air entrapment. The liquid pool's ability to conform to surfaces and maintain continuous contact eliminates the harmful bubble mixture effect.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If liquid pool transfer method is used, then bubble mixture is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid pool system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it conveys the observation object, prevents bubble formation during transfer, and facilitates smooth placement on the plate. The same liquid pool mechanism that enables bubble-free transfer also serves as the conveyance medium, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity despite the added liquid supply system.
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
Enables the preparation of observation specimens without bubble mixtures, simplifying the device structure and improving the efficiency of the specimen preparation process.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid pool in a hydrophilic region on the conveyance belt
Implementation Method 2
a water repellent region surrounding the hydrophilic region
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is a specimen preparation method of preparing an observation specimen by placing an observation object on a light transmitting plate, characterized by comprising a conveyance step of conveying the observation object by a conveyance mechanism including a placement portion configured to place the observation object, and a transfer step of transferring the observation object from the placement portion of the conveyance mechanism onto the plate at a conveyance terminal end of the conveyance mechanism, wherein in the transfer step, a liquid is supplied to the placement portion on which the observation object is placed, and the observation object is carried by a flow of the liquid and transferred onto the plate. This feature enables to prepare an observation specimen by transferring an observation object onto a plate, with a relatively simple arrangement.