Base to switch an apparatus between slidable and non-slidable states
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for laboratory analysis apparatuses fail to combine slip resistance and slidability effectively, leading to either inadequate stability or cumbersome relocation processes.
Innovation Solution
A base system with a movable section that can be switched between a retracted and extended position, altering the coefficient of friction to transition between a non-sliding and sliding state, utilizing a spring mechanism to ensure user-friendly and fail-safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If housing feet with high coefficient of friction materials are used, then the apparatus stands firmly on the working bench, but it becomes difficult to shift the apparatus manually
Solution Approach 1:
The housing foot is designed with a movable section that can dynamically change its state between extended and retracted positions. When extended, it provides high friction for stability; when retracted, it reduces friction to enable easy shifting. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between needing firm stability during operation and ease of relocation when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The coefficient of friction is changed by altering the contact surface area through the movable section's position. In the extended position, the housing foot contacts the working bench with maximum surface area for high friction. In the retracted position, the contact surface is minimized, reducing friction and enabling easy shifting. This parameter change allows the same housing foot to provide both stability and ease of shifting at different times.
2Ease of operation
If housing feet with low coefficient of friction materials are used, then the apparatus can be shifted easily on the working bench, but it becomes unstable during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The housing foot transitions from a static design to a dynamic one where the movable section can be positioned to provide either low friction for easy shifting or high friction for stability. This dynamic capability eliminates the need to choose between ease of shifting and stability, as both states are achievable through position control.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surface area parameter is varied by moving the movable section between extended and retracted positions. When retracted, the minimal contact area provides low friction for easy shifting. When extended, the maximal contact area provides high friction for operational stability. This parameter variation resolves the contradiction.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the movable section is extended to increase friction, then the apparatus stands firmly, but the overall height of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable section is designed to nest within the housing foot when retracted, minimizing the extended height. When extended for stability, it protrudes only as much as necessary to contact the working bench. This nesting design allows the housing foot to provide both stability when needed and minimal height increase when retracted, resolving the contradiction between stability and compact dimensions.
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 apparatus to stand firmly on a surface while allowing easy relocation without altering its overall height or design, ensuring user-friendliness and compliance with design standards.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a spring mechanism to ensure user-friendly and fail-safe operation
Implementation Method 2
altering the coefficient of friction to transition between a non-sliding and sliding state
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a base to switch the apparatus between slidable and non-slidable states, for example a laboratory analysis device, wherein the base is adapted to be located on a flat surface, the base comprising a bottom section adapted to contact the flat surface when the base is located on the flat surface, a movable section that is adapted to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein, in the retracted position, the movable section does not contact the flat surface when the base is located on the flat surface, and, in the extended position, the movable section contacts the flat surface when the base is located on the flat surface.