Tube Rack Transfer Device Using Dual Rail Shuttle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated analytical instruments for processing sample tubes are complex, costly, and difficult to maintain, lacking a simple and robust solution for transferring tube racks efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A tube rack transfer device with a transfer lane and rack transport shuttle, utilizing a transfer head with control pins and pusher mechanisms to move tube racks between carriers and sampling areas, facilitated by a horizontal two-rail moving mechanism and electric motors for automated translation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If magnetic coupling with permanent magnets is used to transfer tube racks, then automated transfer capability is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical transfer mechanisms with a simplified rail-based system where rack carriers move along predefined horizontal rails. This mechanical substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining automated transfer capability between sampling areas and analytical areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer system is segmented into independent rack carriers that can be controlled individually. Each carrier operates autonomously on its own rail path, allowing simplified control and reducing overall system complexity compared to a monolithic transfer mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If multiple components and mechanisms are used for tube rack transfer, then transfer functionality is achieved, but ease of manufacture and maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rack carriers are designed as universal components that can transport different types of tube racks along the same rail system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each transfer scenario, simplifying manufacturing and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal rails serve as intermediary elements that simplify the transfer mechanism. Instead of complex direct coupling between transfer points, the rails provide a simple, standardized interface that facilitates easy manufacture and maintenance of the transfer system.
3Productivity
If complex transfer mechanisms are implemented, then sample processing capability is improved, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack carriers are designed to move autonomously along the rails under their own power or through simple mechanical assistance, reducing the need for complex external drive mechanisms. This self-service capability maintains high sample processing capability while reducing operational costs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a tube rack transfer device for transferring tube racks, comprising a first rail extending in a first horizontal direction and a second rail extending in a second horizontal direction orthogonal to the first horizontal direction, with the second rail being movable along the first rail and comprising at least one transfer head being movable along the second rail, with the transfer head comprising at least one control pin, adapted to be coupled with at least one of: an input pusher, translatable in the second direction, for transferring a tube rack from a rack carrier to a sampling area of an analyzer; an output pusher for transferring a tube rack from the sampling area to a rack carrier; a tube rack for transferring the tube rack between different rack carriers and/or between different positions of the same rack carrier. It further relates to an in-vitro diagnostic instrument, comprising at least one analyzer for carrying out in-vitro diagnostic tests on biological samples, at least one sample unit for inputting/outputting tube racks, a sampling area for withdrawing samples from sample tubes, and at least one transfer device as described.