Test Tube Alignment via Concave Basket Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual attachment of labels to test tubes is labor-intensive and prone to errors, requiring pre-alignment and separate supply of test tubes, which increases workload and reduces accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A test tube automatic alignment and label attaching apparatus that includes a basket with a concave bottom, a test tube supply device with a swing bar and sensors, and a feeder system to align and attach labels to test tubes without prior alignment, utilizing a controller to coordinate the movement and labeling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual label attachment is used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but labor intensity increases and accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The test tubes themselves serve as the alignment reference through their geometric shape and positioning features, eliminating the need for external alignment mechanisms. The basket structure automatically positions test tubes in the correct orientation as they are placed, allowing the system to align itself without manual intervention or complex external alignment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated basket structure that uses gravitational force and geometric constraints to automatically position test tubes. The concave bottom surface and side walls of the basket create natural positioning features that guide test tubes into the correct orientation without requiring active mechanical alignment mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If pre-alignment of test tubes is required, then labeling accuracy is improved, but device complexity and operational steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The basket structure performs the alignment action automatically at the moment of test tube placement, before the labeling process begins. The concave bottom surface and side walls of the basket pre-position the test tubes in the correct orientation and location, eliminating the need for separate post-placement alignment operations or complex alignment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The basket design creates a uniform positioning environment for all test tubes, where gravity and the concave geometry work together to place each test tube in the same optimal position. This equipotential positioning approach ensures consistent alignment without requiring complex active control systems or multiple alignment stages.
3Measurement precision
If separate supply and alignment processes are used, then test tube positioning is controlled, but productivity decreases due to additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the supply, alignment, and positioning functions into a single integrated basket structure. Test tubes are supplied directly into the basket, which simultaneously performs alignment and positioning, eliminating the need for separate supply and alignment processes. This integration allows the labeling system to receive pre-positioned test tubes ready for immediate processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The basket structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a container for receiving test tubes, an alignment device for positioning them correctly, and a feeding mechanism for delivering them to the labeling system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a test tube automatic alignment and label attaching apparatus including a basket formed in a box shape and whose upper surface is open to receive a plurality of test tubes and having a concave bottom surface; a test tube supply device mounted inside the basket and configured to discharge test tubes received in the basket to one side of the basket; and a test tube feeder configured to move the test tubes discharged from one side of the basket. Various other embodiments are available.