Stirring Device with Cell Detection for Automated Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stirring devices for mixed solutions of cells and reagents require user visual observation to determine the end of stirring, complicating the user's workflow.

Innovation Solution

A stirring device equipped with a stirring mechanism, a solid-liquid separation mechanism, and a cell detection mechanism that automatically detects the presence of cells on the container, allowing for timely completion of the stirring process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If user visual observation is used to determine the end of stirring, then the stirring process can be monitored, but the user's work becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestirring process monitoringVSAvoiduser workflow

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-monitoring through the cell detection mechanism that automatically detects whether cells are attached to the container wall, eliminating the need for user visual observation and complex manual operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual visual observation process is replaced by an automated optical detection system (cell detection mechanism) that objectively determines stirring completion based on cell attachment status

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Extent of automation

If automated cell detection is implemented, then the end of stirring can be determined automatically, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestirring completion detectionVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cell detection mechanism serves multiple functions: it monitors cell attachment status, determines stirring completion, and provides feedback for automated control, making the added complexity worthwhile through multi-functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The cell detection mechanism provides real-time feedback on cell attachment status to the control unit, which automatically adjusts the stirring process, creating a closed-loop system that simplifies operation despite increased device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 device improves user workability by automatically determining the end of the stirring process, reducing user workload and enhancing operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The solid-liquid separation mechanism separates the cells attached to the container from liquid other than the cells in the container after the stirring by the stirring mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS12325851B2Stirring device and preprocessing device

Publication Date: 2025.06.10 SHIMADZU CORP

AI summary

When a stirring device 11 performs processing of stirring a mixed solution in a test tube S, a holding mechanism 13 and a movement mechanism 14 are operated so that the test tube S is moved to a position of B2. Then, in the test tube S, the cells attached to the inner surface of the test tube S and the liquid are separated. Further, the cells attached to the inner surface of the test tube S are detected by a color sensor 152. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the work for determining the end of the stirring processing by the user. As a result, the workability of the user when using the stirring device 11 can be improved.