Specimen Processing Apparatus Aspiration Tube Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen processing apparatuses are cumbersome and prone to contamination due to complex configurations and the need for manual intervention, leading to inefficiencies in processing multiple specimens and potential contamination from dust and foreign matter.
Innovation Solution
A specimen processing apparatus with a simplified configuration that allows for automatic and manual aspiration modes, where the aspirating tube moves linearly between regions, reducing size and complexity, and aspirates specimens with the tip outside the housing to minimize contamination, along with a specimen transporting mechanism and a cleaner for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specimen processing apparatus is configured to enable switching between automatic mode and manual mode with multiple mechanisms (transfer mechanism, specimen container setting mechanism, movement mechanism), then the apparatus can process specimens flexibly, but the configuration becomes complicated and the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the automatic and manual aspiration functions into a single integrated apparatus. The same aspirating tube and aspiration chamber are used for both modes, eliminating the need for separate transfer mechanisms and multiple specimen container setting mechanisms. The controller simply switches between automatic control (receiving holder information and automatically aspirating) and manual control (receiving manual input and aspirating), thereby maintaining versatility while significantly reducing configuration complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the specimen processing apparatus uses a complex configuration with multiple mechanisms for mode switching, then the apparatus can handle both automatic and manual operations, but the apparatus becomes large as a whole
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the automatic and manual operation capabilities into a compact integrated system. The aspirating tube, aspiration chamber, and controller form a unified structure that supports both modes without requiring additional large mechanisms. The controller electronically switches between modes, eliminating the need for physical reconfiguration mechanisms and reducing overall apparatus volume while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If manual aspiration is performed with the specimen container drawn into the housing, then the aspiration can be controlled manually, but dust and foreign matter may enter the housing through the opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the aspiration action from the housing interior to the exterior environment. During manual aspiration, the aspirating tube extends outward from the housing to contact the specimen container placed outside. The aspiration is performed with the tube tip outside the housing, preventing dust and foreign matter from entering through the opening while maintaining manual control capability. The controller receives manual input and controls the aspirating tube to aspirate specimens in this external position.
4Extent of automation
If multiple mechanisms are used for transfer and positioning in the specimen processing apparatus, then the apparatus can perform automatic processing, but the mechanisms become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the automatic processing function into a streamlined system where the controller directly manages the aspirating tube based on holder information. The same aspirating tube and aspiration chamber serve both automatic and manual modes, eliminating the need for complex transfer mechanisms and multiple positioning mechanisms. The controller automatically receives holder information and controls the aspirating tube to sequentially aspirate specimens, achieving automation with minimal mechanism complexity.
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 configuration enables faster processing of multiple specimens with reduced contamination risks, improving efficiency and accuracy by simplifying the apparatus design and maintaining cleanliness during both automatic and manual aspiration operations.
Implementation Method 1
an aspirating tube (710) that aspirates specimens from a holder (500) that holds the specimens
Data Source
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AI summary
A specimen processing apparatus may include: an aspirating tube configured to aspirates a specimen in automatic aspiration and manual aspiration; an aspirating tube moving mechanism configured to move the aspirating tube between a first region in which the automatic aspiration is performed and a second region in which the manual aspiration is performed, the first region covered with a wall, the second region separated from the first region; and a processing unit that processes the specimen aspirated by the aspirating tube.