Vessel Collar Assembly for Precise Dissolution Test Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dissolution test systems face challenges in accurately and repeatedly mounting vessels, adjusting vessel orientation, and retaining vessels in vessel holders, which impact test results, repeatability, and overall time efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A vessel mounting system with a first collar and adjustable adapter for mounting vessels of different sizes, featuring positioning and interlocking mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and clamping, and enabling efficient scanning for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional mounting methods are used for vessels in dissolution test apparatus, then the apparatus can accommodate vessels, but mounting errors and orientation inaccuracies occur due to vessel size variations and lack of precise positioning features
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is designed with self-aligning features including protrusions that engage with grooves on the vessel, and a self-centering mechanism that automatically positions the vessel concentrically without requiring external alignment tools or manual adjustments. The spring-loaded fingers provide self-adjusting contact pressure to maintain precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment and positioning methods with a automated mechanical system featuring a motorized spindle, encoder for angular position feedback, and programmable control that automatically orients and secures the vessel in the correct position, eliminating human error in mounting and orientation.
2Productivity
If manual adjustment and marking methods are used for vessel orientation, then vessels can be positioned, but time is lost due to repeated adjustments and the process is prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is pre-configured with positioning features, spring-loaded fingers, and engagement mechanisms that are prepared in advance to automatically capture and secure the vessel upon insertion. The system performs preliminary alignment and securing actions without requiring post-insertion adjustments or markings.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar assembly serves as an intermediary component between the dissolution test apparatus and the vessel, providing a standardized interface with engagement features that automatically translate vessel insertion into precise positioning and secure mounting, eliminating the need for direct manual handling and adjustment of the vessel itself.
3Strength
If multiple clamps and adjustment mechanisms are used to secure vessels, then vessels can be firmly mounted, but device complexity increases and the mounting process becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated collar assembly that includes positioning fingers, securing mechanisms, and alignment features all in one component. This consolidated design provides firm vessel mounting without requiring separate clamps, brackets, or adjustment devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining mounting security.
4Measurement precision
If traditional mounting systems are used, then vessels can be held in place, but orientation accuracy varies due to lack of concentric alignment features
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly features self-centering mechanisms with spring-loaded fingers that automatically adjust to center the vessel concentrically on the spindle axis upon insertion. The protrusion-groove engagement features self-align to establish precise angular orientation without requiring external alignment tools or manual positioning adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a vessel mounting system may include a first collar including at least one protrusion engageable with a groove of a vessel to align the first collar relative to the vessel. A second collar may include at least one stud disposable in a corresponding aperture of the first collar to align the second collar relative to the first collar.