Vertical Holder Transport Layout for Compact Sample Conveyance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holder transport apparatuses require a large installation space due to the arrangement of transport lines in a horizontal plane, which limits space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A holder transport apparatus with elevator devices and conveyor devices that allow transport lines to be arranged vertically, utilizing a loop-shaped ascending and descending path with support plates and guide walls to maintain holders in an erect state, reducing horizontal space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If transport lines are arranged in a horizontal plane, then the holder transport apparatus can operate effectively, but the installation space in the horizontal plane increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vertical arrangement of transport lines instead of horizontal arrangement, transitioning from two-dimensional horizontal layout to three-dimensional spatial utilization. The elevator devices enable vertical movement between upper and lower transport lines, effectively using the vertical dimension to reduce horizontal footprint while maintaining operational functionality.
2Productivity
If multiple transport lines are provided, then transport capacity increases, but the required installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges multiple transport lines vertically (upper and lower lines) instead of horizontally, allowing multiple transport lines to coexist in a compact vertical space. This vertical stacking enables increased transport capacity while minimizing the horizontal installation footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the lower transport line beneath the upper transport line, with the elevator devices serving both lines. The vertical conveyors are positioned to service both upper and lower levels, creating a nested configuration where multiple transport functions are integrated into a compact vertical structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A holder transport apparatus (1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) comprising: (a) plurality of elevator devices (10, 210A, 210B) that are arranged with a predetermined space therebetween, support, in an erect state, a holder (30) holding a sample container (40), and move the holder (30) along a predetermined ascending and descending path (A11, A12), wherein that the apparatus (1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) further comprises: (b) a transport mechanism (20) that conveys the holder (30) along a plurality of transport lines (21A, 21B) provided between the elevator devices (10, 210A, 210B), and intersecting with the ascending and descending path (A11, A12).