UV Holder Mounting for Biological Sample Decontamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for storing, incubating, or manipulating biological samples face challenges in quickly and safely replacing UV light sources and preventing UV light from entering the sample chamber, which can harm the samples and requires complex and time-consuming maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A device with a holder containing a UV light source that can be pre-mounted to the sidewall of the irradiation chamber using a stud and keyhole mechanism, allowing for easy replacement and ensuring UV light is contained within the irradiation chamber, with additional features like thermal insulation and integrated sensors for monitoring light output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UV light source is arranged inside the sample chamber for decontamination, then the decontamination efficiency is improved, but the biological samples will be destroyed or harmed by the UV light
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate chambers: a sample chamber for holding biological samples and an irradiation chamber for UV decontamination. The irradiation chamber is fluidically connected to the sample chamber to allow air circulation, enabling decontamination without direct UV exposure to samples
Solution Approach 2:
Air acts as an intermediary medium, circulating from the sample chamber through the irradiation chamber and back. This allows UV light to decontaminate the air in the irradiation chamber while the decontaminated air is then introduced into the sample chamber, indirectly protecting samples from direct UV exposure
2Reliability
If the UV light source is arranged close to the air circulation openings for effective decontamination, then the decontamination efficiency is improved, but UV light can still reach the sample chamber and harm the samples
Solution Approach 1:
The UV light source is positioned within the irradiation chamber, utilizing the spatial dimension to separate the light source from the sample chamber. The holder with UV light source is mounted on the sidewall of the irradiation chamber, creating a three-dimensional arrangement that prevents direct line-of-sight exposure to samples while maintaining decontamination effectiveness
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the UV light source is arranged inside the irradiation chamber for safe decontamination, then the safety of biological samples is improved, but the replacement of UV light source becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The holder containing the UV light source is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently removed from the irradiation chamber. This segmentation allows the UV light source to be replaced without disassembling the entire device or disturbing the sample chamber
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed to be movable and easily replaceable, transitioning from a fixed installation to a dynamic, user-friendly component that can be quickly installed and removed. This enables maintenance personnel to replace UV light sources efficiently while maintaining sample safety
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a separate irradiation chamber is added to prevent UV light from reaching samples, then the safety of biological samples is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The irradiation chamber and sample chamber are fluidically connected to form an integrated air circulation system. The holder with UV light source is mounted on the sidewall of the irradiation chamber, combining multiple functions (decontamination, sample protection, and easy maintenance) into a unified structural design that minimizes overall device complexity
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
Facilitates quick and safe replacement of UV light sources, prevents UV light from reaching the sample chamber, and maintains a controlled environment, reducing maintenance time and ensuring effective decontamination while protecting biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
Ultraviolet light, in particular short wave ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 100 nm and 280 nm, also known as UVC light, is an efficient disinfection means to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying nuclear acids and disrupting their DNA
Data Source
AI summary
A device for storing, incubating or manipulating biological samples, in particular incubating device or shaking device, comprising a sample chamber, an irradiation chamber, and a holder with a UV light source, wherein a sidewall of the irradiation chamber comprises a first mounting member and wherein the holder comprises a second mounting member configured to interact with the first mounting member for pre-mounting the holder to the sidewall.