Stacker Unit for Continuous Consumable Loading in Analyzers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated analyzers require manual loading of consumables, which interrupts the analytical process, as they cannot be loaded while in operation due to mechanical constraints and safety considerations.
Innovation Solution
A system with a stacker unit that can be loaded with consumables without interrupting the analyzer's operation, utilizing a transport system with a handler and locking mechanism that allows access during operation, and hardware coding for precise consumable recognition and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual loading of consumables is performed using a movable platform, then the stacker can be loaded with consumables, but the analyzer must be stopped and the analytical process interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a stacker unit for consumable storage, a movable platform for loading operations, and the analyzer for analytical processes. This segmentation allows the stacker to be loaded independently while the analyzer continues operating, resolving the contradiction between ease of loading and continuous productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable platform is pre-positioned and ready for loading operations. The system allows the platform to be moved to the loading position in advance, enabling consumables to be loaded before the analyzer requires them, thus avoiding interruption of the analytical process.
2Productivity
If the stacker is made accessible for loading during operation, then continuous loading is enabled, but mechanical damage and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movable platform acts as an intermediary between the loading operation and the stacker. It provides a safe, controlled interface that allows consumables to be loaded without direct access to the analyzer's internal mechanisms, thereby maintaining productivity while ensuring mechanical safety and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading function is extracted from the analyzer's main body and placed on a separate movable platform. This extraction isolates the loading operation from the analyzer's operational mechanisms, enabling continuous loading capability while removing safety risks associated with direct access to the analyzer during operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the movable platform is always accessible, then loading can be performed at any time, but the platform cannot be positioned correctly for safe loading
Solution Approach 1:
The movable platform's position is dynamically adjusted based on the operational state of the analyzer. The platform can be moved to the correct loading position when needed, and its position is controlled to ensure accuracy regardless of when loading is required, thus achieving both timing flexibility and positioning accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system and method for continuous loading of consumables into an analyzer comprising a stacker unit which can be uncoupled from the transport system for transporting the consumables from the stacker to the analytical modules and within and/or between the analytical modules.