Laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment

Abstract

To provide a laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory device.SOLUTION: A laboratory system comprises a first laboratory device comprising a first reference point, a second laboratory device comprising a second reference point, and a coupling element. The coupling element couples the first reference point and the second reference point. The coupling element comprises a detectable part adapted to be moved between a starting position and at least one detection position when a relative position of the first reference point and the second reference point to each other changes. The laboratory system further comprises a sensor configured to detect the detectable part of the coupling element in the at least one detection position. In addition, a method of operating the laboratory system as described is disclosed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure is in the field of automated in vitro diagnostic laboratory testing, in which the present invention relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points in laboratory equipment and a method for operating the laboratory system. [Background technology]

[0002] In diagnostic laboratory environments, laboratory containers, such as test liquid containers, are transported or transferred between multiple laboratory devices according to a predetermined laboratory workflow to generate accurate and reliable test results that represent vital information for physicians. Typically, laboratory containers are transported in laboratory carriers that can accept one or more laboratory containers. In fully automated laboratories, such laboratory carriers are transported on one or more planar transport surfaces of one or more transport devices to distribute the laboratory containers to and / or within operably coupled pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical devices that can perform different processing steps, such as test liquid preparation, analysis, or storage. One or more transport devices can form a laboratory transport system, such as that disclosed in EP 2566787.

[0003] For safe and reliable handover or transfer of laboratory vessels or carriers between laboratory devices, it is essential that the laboratory devices be accurately positioned relative to one another. Typically, such laboratory devices are properly aligned and leveled relative to one another when installed in a diagnostic laboratory environment using adjustment means, such as adjustable feet as disclosed in EP 2848944. However, after installation, the relative positions of the laboratory devices can change over time, and safe and reliable transfer of laboratory vessels between the devices is no longer guaranteed. Such changes can occur slowly over long periods of time, for example, due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor on which the laboratory devices are installed. Furthermore, small changes in the relative positions of the laboratory devices are difficult to detect and can significantly disrupt the transfer of laboratory vessels between the devices, resulting in damage to the vessels and leaking test liquids contaminating the laboratory devices.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to detect changes in relative position between operably coupled laboratory devices in a simple and reliable manner, thereby better meeting the needs of automated in vitro diagnostic laboratory testing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment and a method for operating the laboratory system.

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices. The laboratory system includes a first laboratory device having a first reference point, a second laboratory device having a second reference point, and a coupling element. The coupling element couples the first reference point with the second reference point. The coupling element includes a detectable portion adapted to be moved between a start position and at least one detection position when the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to one another change. The laboratory system further includes a sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element at the at least one detection position.

[0007] The present disclosure also relates to a method of operating the laboratory system described herein, the method comprising the steps of: detecting, with a sensor, the detectable moiety of the binding element at at least one detection location; Triggering a maintenance action by the control unit.

[0008] Detailed Description The present disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices. The laboratory system includes a first laboratory device having a first reference point, a second laboratory device having a second reference point, and a coupling element. The coupling element couples the first reference point and the second reference point. The coupling element includes a detectable portion adapted to be moved between a start position and at least one detection position when the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point change. The laboratory system further includes a sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element at the at least one detection position.

[0009] As used herein, the term "laboratory system" refers to a system designed to process a laboratory vessel or test liquid within a laboratory vessel using laboratory equipment. A laboratory system may include two or more laboratory instruments operably coupled to each other. A laboratory instrument may be a transport instrument, a pre-analytical instrument, an analytical instrument, or a post-analytical instrument.

[0010] As used herein, the term "transport device" refers to a device designed to transport laboratory containers to and / or within pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical equipment. The transport device may include a planar surface adapted to transport laboratory containers or laboratory carriers loaded with laboratory containers. The planar transport surface may include a conveyor belt for moving the laboratory containers or laboratory carriers loaded with laboratory containers. Alternatively, the transport device may include a stable, planar transport surface along which self-propelled laboratory carriers can move. Alternatively, the transport device may include several stationary electromagnetic actuators positioned below the planar transport surface and adapted to generate magnetic fields for moving the laboratory carriers. The transport device may be designed as described in EP 2 566 787 B1, reference numeral 51 in FIG. 1 and the corresponding description. Multiple transport devices may form a laboratory transport system. Such a laboratory transport system device may be designed as described in EP 2 566 787 B1, reference numeral 100 and the corresponding description.

[0011] As used herein, the term "laboratory container" refers to a device configured to receive, hold, transport, and / or release a test liquid. The laboratory container may be, by way of non-limiting example, a test liquid container or a test liquid tube. In one embodiment, the test liquid is a biological liquid, a test reagent, or a mixture of a biological liquid and a test reagent. As used herein, the term "biological fluid" refers to a patient specimen (e.g., serum, plasma, whole blood, urine, sputum, cerebrospinal fluid, bone marrow, etc.) in which the presence and, optionally, concentration of an analyte or an analyte-related parameter can be determined using a test reagent. Typically, a test reagent includes a substance or solution that reacts with a specific analyte or analyte-related substance in a biological fluid to generate a measurable signal indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the analyte in the biological fluid.

[0012] As used herein, the term "laboratory carrier" refers to a device configured to receive, hold, transport, and / or discharge one or more laboratory containers. The laboratory carrier may be, by way of non-limiting example, a laboratory container holder or a laboratory container rack. In an embodiment, the laboratory carrier comprises at least one magnetically active device that interacts with a magnetic field such that a magnetic force is applied to the laboratory carrier. Laboratory carriers comprising at least one magnetically active device that interacts with a magnetic field are well known in the art and can be designed as described in EP 2988134, reference number 10 and the corresponding description, or as described in EP 3070479, reference number 1 and the corresponding description. In another embodiment, the laboratory carrier comprises motor-driven wheels. Laboratory carriers comprising motor-driven wheels are well known in the art and can be designed as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,182,419. In another embodiment, the laboratory carrier is configured to be transported on a planar transport surface comprising one or more conveyor belts to move and stop the laboratory carrier on the planar transport surface.

[0013] Pre-analytical equipment can typically be used for pre-processing steps of the laboratory container and / or test liquid, such as, but not limited to, centrifuging the test liquid, separating the analyte from the test liquid, resuspending the test liquid (e.g., by mixing or vortexing), capping the laboratory container, decapping the laboratory container, recapping the laboratory container, sorting the laboratory container, identifying the type of laboratory container, quality determination and / or aliquoting of the test liquid.

[0014] The analytical instrument can be designed, for example, to use the test liquid or a portion of the test liquid to generate a measurable signal based on which it can be determined whether an analyte is present in the test liquid, and optionally at what concentration. Non-limiting examples of analytical instruments include clinical chemistry analyzers, coagulation chemistry analyzers, immunochemistry analyzers, urinalysis analyzers, and / or nucleic acid analyzers.

[0015] Post-analysis devices can typically be used for post-processing of laboratory vessels and / or test liquids, such as storing laboratory vessels. Post-analysis equipment for storing (storing and retrieving) laboratory vessels is well known in the art and can be designed as described in EP 2 148 204 A1, FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 and the corresponding description.

[0016] The pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical equipment may comprise, for example, at least one processing device from the following group of processing devices: a gripper for gripping and sorting laboratory containers, a transport device for transporting or transferring laboratory containers or laboratory carriers, an uncapping device for removing caps or closures from laboratory containers, a capping device for attaching caps or closures to laboratory containers, an uncapping / attaching device for removing / attaching caps or closures to laboratory containers, a pipetting device for pipetting test liquids, an aliquoting device for aliquoting test liquids, a centrifugation device for centrifugation of test liquids, an analytical device for analyzing test liquids, a heating device for heating test liquids, a cooling device for cooling test liquids, a mixing device for mixing test liquids, a separation device for separating analytes in test liquids, a storage device for storing laboratory containers, a storage device for storing laboratory containers, a laboratory container type determination device for determining the type of laboratory container, a test liquid quality determination device for determining the quality of the test liquid, a laboratory container identification device for identifying laboratory containers. Such processing devices, including pre-analytical, analytical, post-analytical, and processing devices, are well known in the art.

[0017] As used herein, the term "coupling element" refers to a mechanical element that directly or indirectly couples, couples, or connects a first reference point and a second reference point. By coupling, coupling, or connecting the first reference point and the second reference point to each other, changes in the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to each other can be easily detected. In one embodiment, the coupling element comprises two opposing ends, one of which comprises a detectable portion. In one embodiment, the first laboratory device and the second laboratory device are coupled to each other only by the coupling element.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first reference point includes a pivot point. The coupling element is pivotally fixed to the pivot point such that the detectable portion is movable between a start position and at least one detection position. Thus, the detectable portion is movable between a start position and at least one detection position by rotational movement of the coupling element. In a more specific embodiment, the coupling element is a lever including a first recess and a second recess. The pivot point includes a first pin that pivotally engages with the first recess. The second reference point includes a second pin that movably engages with the second recess. In one embodiment, the lever is made of a rigid material. For example, the lever may be made of a rigid metal or plastic. In one embodiment, the first recess is a round hole in the coupling element. The second recess is a horizontally elongated hole in the coupling element. The round hole and / or the horizontally elongated hole may be a recess or a through-hole in the lever. In one embodiment, the lever includes two opposing ends, one of which includes the detectable portion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the distance between the first recess and the second recess is smaller than the distance between the first recess and the detectable portion. Therefore, a small movement of the first reference point in the first or second linear movement direction and / or a small movement of the second reference point in the third or fourth linear movement direction results in a larger movement of the detectable portion. Therefore, small and / or slow changes in the relative positions of the first and second reference points can be amplified for detection by the sensor.

[0020] In another embodiment, the distance between the first recess and the second recess is greater than the distance between the first recess and the detectable portion. Thus, a large movement of the first reference point in the first or second linear movement direction and / or a small movement of the second reference point in the third or fourth linear movement direction results in a smaller movement of the detectable portion. Thus, large changes in the relative positions of the first and second reference points with respect to each other can be reduced.

[0021] In an alternative embodiment, the first reference point and a portion of the coupling element are positioned between two stop elements such that the coupling element strikes one of the two stop elements when the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point change. The second reference point comprises a support element to which the coupling element is attached. The coupling element is bendable. Thus, the coupling element bends by striking one of the two stop elements so that the detectable portion moves from the start position toward at least one detection position. In one embodiment, the stop element is a cylindrical pin. In another embodiment, the stop elements are prisms, with one lateral edge of each prism positioned opposite each other and the reference point positioned between the two lateral edges. In one embodiment, the coupling element is made of a flexible material. The coupling element may also be made of a sheet-like material. Thus, by way of example, the sheet-like material may be made of a material having spring properties, such as a plastic material, or a metal sheet, such as a spring steel sheet.

[0022] As used herein, the term "reference point" refers to a location, place, or object of a laboratory device used to determine whether the position of a laboratory device or portion thereof relative to another laboratory device or portion thereof has changed. A change in the relative position between the reference point and a reference point of another laboratory device changes the relative position between the laboratory device or portion thereof and the other laboratory device or portion thereof. A first reference point of a first laboratory device can be moved in a first linear motion direction and a second linear motion direction opposite to the first linear motion direction by moving the first laboratory device in a first linear motion direction and a second linear motion direction opposite to the first linear motion direction. A second reference point of a second laboratory device can be moved in a third linear motion direction and a fourth linear motion direction opposite to the third linear motion direction by moving the second laboratory device in a third linear motion direction and a fourth linear motion direction opposite to the third linear motion direction. The first, second, third, and fourth motion directions are parallel to each other. The first linear movement direction is opposite to the fourth linear movement direction. The second linear movement direction is opposite to the third linear movement direction. Thus, when the first reference point moves in the first linear movement direction or the second linear movement direction, the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point change. And / or, the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point can change when the second reference point moves in the third linear movement direction or the fourth linear movement direction.

[0023] As used herein, the term "monitoring" refers to the process of observing and / or detecting changes in the relative positions of a first reference point and a second reference point relative to one another over a period of time. During installation, the first and second laboratory devices are positioned relative to one another such that safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices is ensured, with the first and second reference points at predetermined locations and the detectable portion at a start position. If the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to one another change, the detectable portion has moved toward at least one detection position. The distance between the start position and the detection position is related to or correlates to an acceptable or tolerable change in the relative position between the first and second reference points, such that the position of the first laboratory device, or a portion thereof, relative to the second laboratory device, or a portion thereof, still allows safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices. If the detectable portion is detected by the sensor at at least one detection location, the change in the relative position of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to one another becomes unacceptable or unacceptable, and a maintenance operation may be initiated, as further described below.

[0024] In one embodiment, the detectable portion is movable between a start position and a first detection position and between a start position and a second detection position. The start position is located between the first detection position and the second detection position. For example, the detectable portion moves from the start position to the first detection position when the second reference point moves in a third linear movement direction and / or the first reference point moves in a second linear movement direction opposite the third linear movement direction. The detectable portion moves from the start position to the second detection position when the first reference point moves in the first linear movement direction and / or the second reference point moves in a fourth linear movement direction opposite the first linear movement direction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the detectable portion comprises a first sub-portion and a second sub-portion. The sensor is configured to detect the first sub-portion when the coupling element is in the first detection position. The sensor is configured to detect the second sub-portion when the coupling element is in the second detection position. In a more specific embodiment, the detectable portion is a bifurcated end of the coupling element, one end of the bifurcated end comprising the first sub-portion and the other end of the bifurcated end comprising the second sub-portion. For example, the coupling element is a lever having a U-shaped end comprising the first sub-portion and the second sub-portion.

[0026] In one embodiment, the detectable portion is also movable between a first detection position and a third detection position. The first detection position is located between the start position and the third detection position. The laboratory system includes an additional sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the binding element at the third detection position. For example, as the second reference point moves further in a third linear movement direction and / or the first reference point moves further in a second linear movement direction opposite the third linear movement direction, the detectable portion moves from the first detection position to the third detection position. The distance between the start position and the third detection position is related to or correlates to an acceptable or tolerable change in the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to each other such that the position of the first laboratory device or portion thereof relative to the second laboratory device or portion thereof still allows for safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices. When the detectable portion is at a first detection position and detected by a sensor, the change in the relative position of the first and second reference points relative to one another may still be acceptable or tolerable, but a warning may be triggered indicating that the detectable portion is approaching a third detection position. When the detectable portion is at a third detection position and detected by a further sensor, the change in the relative position of the first and second reference points relative to one another becomes unacceptable or unacceptable, and a maintenance action may be initiated, as described further below.

[0027] In one embodiment, the detectable portion is also movable between a second detection position and a fourth detection position. The second detection position is located between the start position and the fourth detection position. The laboratory system further includes an additional sensor configured to detect the detectable portion at the fourth detection position. For example, as the first reference point moves further in the first linear movement direction and / or the second reference point moves further in a fourth linear movement direction opposite the first linear movement direction, the detectable portion moves from the second detection position to the fourth detection position. The distance between the start position and the fourth detection position is related to or correlates to an acceptable or tolerable change in the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to each other such that the position of the first laboratory device or portion thereof relative to the second laboratory device or portion thereof still allows for safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices. When the detectable portion is at a second detection position and detected by a sensor, the change in the relative position of the first and second reference points relative to one another may still be acceptable or tolerable, but a warning may be triggered indicating that the detectable portion is approaching a fourth detection position. When the detectable portion is at a fourth detection position and detected by a further sensor, the change in the relative position of the first and second reference points relative to one another becomes unacceptable or unacceptable, and a maintenance action may be initiated, as described further below.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first reference point is located a first predetermined distance to a first location on a first laboratory device. The second reference point is located a second predetermined distance to a second location on a second laboratory device. The first location may be located on, within, or a predetermined distance from the first laboratory device. The second location may be located on, within, or a predetermined distance from the second laboratory device. In one embodiment, the length of the first predetermined distance and the length of the second predetermined distance are the same or different.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device include a means for adjusting the length of the first predetermined distance and / or the length of the second predetermined distance. During installation of the first laboratory device and the second laboratory device, the first reference point and / or the second reference point may be movable to a predetermined position so that the detectable portion is in the starting position when the first reference point and the second reference point are in the predetermined position. For example, the first reference point may include a first pin, and the second reference point may include a second pin. The first pin and / or the second pin may be movably attached to the guide element and fixed to the guide element at a predetermined position, for example, by a screw.

[0030] When the first position of the first laboratory apparatus and the second position of the second laboratory apparatus are in position with respect to each other, safe and reliable interaction between the first laboratory apparatus and the second laboratory apparatus is ensured. The interaction between the first laboratory apparatus and the second laboratory apparatus may, by way of non-limiting example, be a handover or transfer of a laboratory carrier, laboratory container, and / or test liquid between the first laboratory apparatus and the second laboratory apparatus. In one embodiment, the first position of the first laboratory apparatus and the second position of the second laboratory apparatus are movable relative to each other. In a more specific embodiment, the first position of the first laboratory apparatus and the second position of the second laboratory apparatus are movable relative to each other due to movement between the first laboratory apparatus and the second laboratory apparatus or environmental factors acting on the first laboratory apparatus and / or the second laboratory apparatus. Movement between a first and second laboratory device can be caused by the characteristics or uneven movement of the laboratory floor or laboratory wall, such that the first laboratory device can sink or shift relative to the second laboratory device. Therefore, the relative positions between the first and second reference points and the first and second positions can change due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor on which the first and second laboratory devices are installed or due to uneven movement of the laboratory wall on which the first and second laboratory devices are attached. Movement between the first and second laboratory device can also be caused by forces acting on the first and / or second laboratory device. For example, a user may accidentally hit the first and / or second laboratory device. Furthermore, environmental factors such as temperature or humidity can cause the laboratory device or portions thereof to expand or tighten, thereby changing the relative positions between the first and second positions. The distance between the starting position and the at least one detection position correlates to an acceptable or tolerable change in the relative positions of the first position of the first laboratory device and the second position of the second laboratory device with respect to each other, so that a safe and reliable interaction, such as the transfer of a laboratory carrier between the first laboratory device and the second laboratory device, is still ensured.If the detectable portion is detected by the sensor at at least one detection location, the change in the relative position of the first position and the second position with respect to one another may become unacceptable or unacceptable, and a maintenance action may be initiated, as further described below.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first position of the first laboratory device is defined by a first plane, and the second position of the second laboratory device is defined by a second plane. The first plane and the second plane are parallel to each other. In a more specific embodiment, when the detectable portion is in the starting position, the first plane and the second plane are substantially coplanar, or when the detectable portion is in the starting position, the first plane and the second plane are located at a predetermined distance from each other. In one embodiment, the first plane and the second plane are oriented horizontally or vertically.

[0032] In a more specific embodiment, the first plane includes a first planar transport surface of a first laboratory device adapted to transport a laboratory container or a laboratory carrier. The second plane includes a second planar transport surface of a second laboratory device adapted to transport a laboratory container or a laboratory carrier. The first and second planar transport surfaces are adjacent to each other. For safe and reliable handover or transfer of a laboratory container or a laboratory carrier between the first and second planar transport surfaces, the first and second planes must be substantially coplanar. If the detectable portion is detected by the sensor at at least one detection location, the offset between the first and second planes is too large to ensure safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory container or a laboratory carrier, and a maintenance operation may be initiated, as further described below.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first plane includes a level at which a laboratory container placed on the first laboratory device must be gripped. The second plane includes a gripping level of the gripper of the second laboratory device. In one embodiment, the first plane, including a level at which a laboratory container placed on the first laboratory device must be gripped, is parallel to the planar transport surface of the first laboratory device at a specified distance. For safe and reliable handover or transfer of a laboratory container between the planar transport surface of the first laboratory device and the gripper of the second laboratory device, the first plane and the second plane must be substantially coplanar. If the detectable portion is detected by the sensor at at least one detection position, the offset between the first plane and the second plane is too large to ensure safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory container, and a maintenance operation may be initiated, as further described below.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first plane includes a level at which the test liquid in the laboratory container placed on the first laboratory device must be aspirated or dispensed. The second plane includes an aspirating or dispensing level of the pipettor of the second laboratory device. In one embodiment, the first plane, including a level at which the test liquid in the laboratory container placed on the first laboratory device must be aspirated or dispensed, is parallel to a planar transport surface of the first laboratory device at a predetermined distance. For safe and reliable transfer or transfer of test liquid between the laboratory container placed on the first laboratory device and the pipettor of the second laboratory device, the first plane and the second plane must be substantially coplanar. If the detectable moiety is detected by the sensor at at least one detection location, the offset between the first plane and the second plane is too large to ensure safe and reliable transfer of test liquid, and a maintenance operation may be initiated, as further described below.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first laboratory device and the second laboratory device are the same or different types of laboratory devices. In one embodiment, the type of the first laboratory device is a transport device, a pre-analytical device, an analytical device, or a post-analytical device. The type of the second laboratory device is a transport device, a pre-analytical device, an analytical device, or a post-analytical device. In one embodiment, the first laboratory device is adjacent to the second laboratory device. In one embodiment, multiple adjacent transport devices can form a transport system for transporting or distributing laboratory containers to operably coupled pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical devices. In another embodiment, a transport device may be located in front of the pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical device that includes a gripper for gripping the laboratory container from the transport device. In another embodiment, the pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical device includes a transport device for receiving laboratory containers or laboratory carriers from a transport device located in front of the device or for transporting laboratory containers or laboratory carriers within the device.

[0036] In one embodiment, the sensor is a light barrier, a pressure sensor, a camera, an inductive sensor, or a conductivity sensor. For example, the sensor is a light barrier adapted to detect a break in a light beam caused by the detectable portion of the coupling element. The break in the light beam generates a signal that is transmitted to a control unit communicatively connected to the sensor.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device include a means for manually or automatically adjusting the first and second planes relative to one another. In a specific embodiment, the adjusting means is an adjustable foot of the laboratory device. For example, each adjustable foot includes two sections that can be moved relative to one another to extend or retract the foot. The foot may further include an actuator, such as an electric motor, for extending or retracting the foot to adjust the first and second planes relative to one another. Alternatively, the two sections may be manually moved to manually adjust the first and second planes relative to one another. In another specific embodiment, the adjusting means is a robotic arm to which a gripper is attached. The robotic arm is configured to move the gripper in three dimensions and position the gripper at a gripping level. The first plane includes a level at which a laboratory container placed on a first laboratory device must be gripped, and the second plane includes a gripping level of a gripper of a second laboratory device, and if the offset between the first plane and the second plane is too large for safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory carrier, the robot's movements can be reconfigured or readjusted based on the offset. In one embodiment, the laboratory system further comprises a control unit communicatively connected to the sensor. The control unit is configured to trigger a maintenance operation when the sensor detects the detectable moiety at the at least one detection location. In one embodiment, the maintenance operation includes one or more of the following operations: The control unit displays a user notification on the display prompting the user to adjust the first plane and the second plane relative to each other. The control unit is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device and configured to turn off the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device. The control unit is further communicatively connected to the automatic adjustment means and controls the automatic adjustment means to adjust the first plane and the second plane relative to each other.

[0038] As used herein, the term "control unit" encompasses any physical or virtual processing device comprising a processor configured to control a laboratory system. The processor of the control unit may be embodied, for example, as a programmable logic controller adapted to execute a computer-readable program including instructions for performing the operations of the laboratory system. In one embodiment, the control unit comprises a display capable of displaying a user notification prompting a user to adjust the first and second planes relative to one another. The user notification may further include instructions regarding how to adjust the first and second planes relative to one another. For example, the user may receive information regarding which adjustable feet of which laboratory devices need to be extended or retracted. Thus, one operation of the control unit is to display this user notification when the sensor detects the detectable portion of the coupling element. In one embodiment, the control unit is further communicatively connected to the first and / or second laboratory devices, and another operation of the control unit is to turn off the first and / or second laboratory devices when the sensor detects the detectable portion of the coupling element. Thus, unsafe or unreliable interaction between the first and second laboratory devices can be prevented. In one embodiment, the control unit is further communicatively connected to the automatic adjustment means, and another operation of the control unit is to control the automatic adjustment means to adjust the first and second planes relative to each other when the sensor detects the detectable portion of the coupling element. For example, the control unit controls one or more actuators to adjust (extend or retract) one or more adjustable feet of the laboratory device. Or, the control unit reconfigures or readjusts the movement of a robotic arm.

[0039] The present disclosure also relates to a method of operating the laboratory system described herein, the method comprising the steps of: detecting, with a sensor, the detectable moiety of the binding element at at least one detection location; Triggering a maintenance action by the control unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 1B] 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 1C] 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 1D] 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 2A] 1 shows another schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 2B] 1 shows another schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 3] 1 shows a schematic side view of another embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. [Figure 4] 1 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method of operating an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points on laboratory equipment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] 1A-1D show schematic side views of an embodiment of a laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) of laboratory devices (16, 18). The laboratory system (10) comprises a first laboratory device (16) having a first reference point (12) and a second laboratory device (18) having a second reference point (14). The laboratory system (10) further comprises a coupling element (20) coupling the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14). The coupling element (20) comprises a detectable portion (22) adapted to be moved between a start position (24) and at least one detection position (26, 40) as the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) with respect to one another change. The laboratory system (10) further comprises a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable moiety (22) of the binding element (20) at at least one detection location (26, 40).

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the first reference point (12) comprises a pivot point, and the coupling element (20) is pivotally fixed to the pivot point such that the detectable portion (22) is movable between a start position (24) and at least one detection position (26, 40). The illustrated coupling element (20) is a lever made of a rigid material. The lever comprises a first recess (30) and a second recess (32). The pivot point comprises a first pin (34) that pivotally engages with the first recess (30), and the second reference point (14) comprises a second pin (36) that movably engages with the second recess (32). The first recess (30) is a round hole in the coupling element (20), and the second recess (32) is a horizontally elongated hole in the coupling element (20). As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the detectable portion (22) is movable between a start position (24) and a first detection position (26). The detectable portion (22) is also movable between a start position (24) and a second detection position (40), as shown in FIG. 1C. The detectable portion (22) comprises a first sub-portion (21) and a second sub-portion (23). The sensor (28) is configured to detect the first sub-portion (21) when the coupling element (20) is in the first detection position (26), as shown in FIG. 1B. The sensor (28) is also configured to detect the second sub-portion (23) when the coupling element (20) is in the second detection position (40), as shown in FIG. 1C. As further shown in FIG. 1A, the first reference point (12) is positioned a first predetermined distance to a first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16), as indicated by a first vertical dotted line. The second reference point (14) is positioned a second predetermined distance to a second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18), as shown by the second vertical dotted line in FIG. 1A. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first predetermined distance and the length of the second predetermined distance are the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18) are movable relative to one another, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D. For example, movement between the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), such that the second laboratory apparatus (18) sinks relative to the first laboratory apparatus (16), as shown in FIG. 1B.Alternatively, movement between the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), such that the first laboratory apparatus (16) sinks relative to the second laboratory apparatus (18), as shown in Figure 1C. Thus, the relative positions between the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), and between the first position (50) and the second position (52), may change due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) are placed.

[0043] As further shown in Figures 1A-1D, the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) is defined by a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) is defined by a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel. In Figure 1A, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable moiety (22) is in the start position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are transport devices each including a planar transport surface (55, 57). The first plane (54) includes the first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory device (16) adapted to transport a laboratory carrier (58), as indicated by the dotted arrow in Figure 1A. A laboratory carrier (58), shown on a first planar transport surface (55), is loaded with a laboratory container (61). A second planar transport surface (56), shown in FIG. 1A by the dotted arrow, includes a second planar transport surface (57) of a second laboratory device (18) adapted to transport the laboratory carrier (58). The first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57) are adjacent to each other so that the laboratory carrier (58) can be transported or transferred between the first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57). In FIG. 1B, the first planar transport surface (54) and the second planar transport surface (56) have an offset due to non-uniform movement of the laboratory floor (53), and the detectable portion (22) is at the first detection position (26). Also, in FIG. 1C, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are no longer coplanar, and the detectable moiety (22) is at the second detection position (40).

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) comprise means (59), such as adjustable feet, for automatically adjusting the first planar surface (54) and the second planar surface (56) relative to one another so that the first planar surface (54) and the second planar surface (56) are again coplanar and the laboratory carrier (58) can be securely and reliably transported between the first and second planar transport surfaces (55, 57), as indicated by the dotted arrows in Figure 1D. In the illustrated embodiment, the laboratory system (10) further comprises a control unit (62) communicatively connected to the sensor (28) and the automatic adjustment means (59), as indicated by the dashed lines. The control unit (62) is configured to control the automatic adjustment means (59) to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to one another when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection location (26, 40). Additionally or alternatively, the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory device (16) and / or the second laboratory device (18) and turns off the first laboratory device (16) and / or the second laboratory device (18) when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection location (26, 40). Thus, unsafe or unreliable transfer or transportation of the laboratory carrier (58) between the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) can be prevented. Alternatively, the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) may include means (59), such as adjustable feet, for manually adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to one another. The control unit (62) is also configured to display a user notification on the display (64) prompting the user to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to one another when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) in at least one detection location (26, 40).

[0045] 2A-2B show another schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) of laboratory devices (16, 18). The laboratory system (10) comprises a first laboratory device (16) having a first reference point (12) and a second laboratory device (18) having a second reference point (14). The laboratory system (10) further comprises a coupling element (20) coupling the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14). The coupling element (20) comprises a detectable portion (22) adapted to be moved between a start position (24) and at least one detection position (26) as the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) with respect to one another change. The laboratory system (10) further comprises a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable moiety (22) of the binding element (20) at at least one detection location (26).

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling element (20) is bendable. The first reference point (12) and a portion of the coupling element (20) are disposed between two stop elements (38) in the form of two cylindrical pins such that the coupling element (20) strikes one of the stop elements (38) when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) change, as shown in FIG. 2B. The second reference point (14) includes a support element (39) to which the coupling element (20) is attached. Thus, the coupling element (20) bends by striking one of the stop elements (38) such that the detectable portion (22) moves from the start position (24) toward at least one detection position (26), as shown in FIG. 2B. The detectable portion (22) may also be movable between the start position (24) and a second detection position (40, not shown in FIG. 2). As further shown, the detectable portion (22) comprises a first sub-portion (21) and a second sub-portion (23). The sensor (28) is also configured to detect the first sub-portion (21) when the coupling element (20) is in a first detection position (26), as shown in FIG. 1B. The sensor (28) may also be configured to detect the second sub-portion (23) when the coupling element (20) is in a second detection position (40, not shown in FIG. 2). As further shown in FIG. 2A, the first reference point (12) is positioned a first predetermined distance to a first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16), as indicated by the first vertical dotted line. The second reference point (14) is positioned a second predetermined distance to a second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18), as indicated by the second vertical dotted line in FIG. 2A. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first predetermined distance and the length of the second predetermined distance are the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18) are movable relative to one another, as shown in Figures 2A-2B. For example, movement between the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), such that the second laboratory apparatus (18) sinks relative to the first laboratory apparatus (16), as shown in Figure 2B.Thus, the relative positions between the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), and between the first position (50) and the second position (52), may change due to movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are placed. As further shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) is defined by a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) is defined by a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel. In Figure 2A, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable portion (22) is in the start position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) are transport devices each including a planar transport surface (55, 57). The first planar surface (54) includes a first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) adapted to transport a laboratory carrier (58, not shown in FIG. 2). The second planar surface (56) includes a second planar transport surface (57) of the second laboratory apparatus (18) adapted to transport a laboratory carrier (58, not shown in FIG. 2). The first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57) are adjacent to each other such that the laboratory carrier (58) can be transported or transferred between the first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57). In FIG. 2B, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) have an offset due to non-uniform movement of the laboratory floor (53), and the detectable portion (22) is at the first detection position (26).

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) include means (59), such as adjustable feet, for automatically adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to one another. The laboratory system (10) may further include a control unit (62), as indicated by the dashed lines, communicatively connected to the sensor (28) and the automatic adjustment means (59). The control unit (62) is configured to control the automatic adjustment means (59) to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to one another when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection location (26). Additionally or alternatively, the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory apparatus (16) and / or the second laboratory apparatus (18) and turns off the first laboratory apparatus (16) and / or the second laboratory apparatus (18) when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection location (26). Thus, unsafe or unreliable transfer or transportation of the laboratory carrier (58) between the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) can be prevented. Alternatively, the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) may be provided with means (59), such as adjustable feet, for manually adjusting the first and second planar surfaces (54) and (56) relative to one another. The control unit (62) is also configured to display a user notification on the display (64) prompting the user to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection position (26, 40).

[0048] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of another embodiment of a laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) on laboratory devices. The laboratory system (10) includes a first laboratory device (16) having a first reference point (12), a second laboratory device (18) having a second reference point (14), a coupling element (20) coupling the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), a sensor (28), and a control unit (62) communicatively connected to the sensor (28). As further shown in Figure 3, the first reference point (12) is positioned a first predetermined distance from a first location (50) on the first laboratory device (16), as indicated by a first vertical dotted line in Figure 3. The first location (50) is positioned a predetermined distance from the first laboratory device (16). The second reference point (14) is positioned a second predetermined distance to a second position (52) of a second laboratory apparatus (18), as shown by the second vertical dotted line in FIG. 3 . The second position (52) is positioned a predetermined distance to the second laboratory apparatus (16). In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first predetermined distance is the same as the length of the second predetermined distance. Also, the distance between the first position (50) and the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the distance between the second position (52) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) are the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18) are movable relative to each other. For example, movement between the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), such that the second laboratory apparatus (18) sinks relative to the first laboratory apparatus (16). Thus, the relative positions between the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), and between the first position (50) and the second position (52), may change due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) are installed. However, Figure 3 only shows the state of the laboratory system (10) immediately after installation of the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18).As further shown in FIG. 3 , the first location (50) of the first laboratory device (16) is defined by a first plane (54), and the second location (52) of the second laboratory device (18) is defined by a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable portion (22) is in the start position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) is a transport device including a planar transport surface (55). The second laboratory device (18) is a pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical device that includes a gripper (60) attached to a robotic arm (63). The first plane (54) includes a level at which a laboratory container (61) located on the planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory device (16) must be gripped. The second plane (56) includes the gripping level of the gripper (60) of the second laboratory device (18). The illustrated first plane (54), which includes the level at which a laboratory container (61) placed on the first laboratory device (16) must be gripped, is parallel to the planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory device (16) at a specified distance. For safe and reliable handover or transfer of the laboratory container (61) between the gripper (60) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18), the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) must be substantially coplanar. If the offset between the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) is too large, the movement of the robot arm (63) can be reconfigured or readjusted based on the offset.

[0049] 4 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 66 for operating an embodiment of a laboratory system 10 for monitoring reference points 12, 14 of laboratory devices 16, 18, as described in FIGS. 1-3. In a first step a) 68 of the method 66, the sensor 28 detects the detectable portion 22 of the coupling element 20 at at least one detection location 26, 40. Subsequently, the control unit 52 triggers a maintenance operation in step b) 70 of the method 66. The maintenance operation includes one or more of the following actions: The control unit may display a user notification on the display 64 prompting the user to align the first plane 54 and the second plane 56 with respect to one another (62). And / or the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory device (16) and / or the second laboratory device (18) and turns off the first laboratory device (16) and / or the second laboratory device (18). And / or the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the automatic adjustment means (59) and controls the automatic adjustment means (59) to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other.

[0050] In the foregoing description and figures, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details need not be used to practice the present teachings. In other instances, well-known materials or methods have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.

[0051] In particular, modifications and variations of the disclosed embodiments are certainly possible in light of the above description, and it is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described in the examples above.

[0052] Also, throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment," "embodiment," "one example," or "example" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," "one example," or "example" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or example. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 10 Laboratory Systems 12 First Reference Point 14 Second Reference Point 16 First Laboratory Apparatus 18 Second Laboratory Apparatus 20 Bonding Elements 21 First subpart 22 Detectable Part 23 Second subpart 24 Starting position 26 First detection position 28 Sensors 30 First recess 32 Second recess 34 First Pin 36 Second pin 38 Stopping Elements 39 Supporting Elements 40 Second detection position 50 First position of first laboratory device 52 Second position of second laboratory device 53 Laboratory Floor 54 First Plane 55 First Plane Transport Surface 56 Second Plane 57 Second Plane Transport Surface 58 Laboratory Career 59 Means for manually or automatically adjusting the first and second planes 60 Gripper 61 Laboratory Container 62 Control Unit 63 Robot Arm 64 displays 66 method 68 Step a) of the method 70 Method step b)

Claims

1. A laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) of laboratory equipment (16, 18), said laboratory system (10) comprising: a first laboratory device (16) having a first reference point (12); a second laboratory device (18) having a second reference point (14); a coupling element (20) coupling the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), the coupling element (20) comprising a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a start position (24) and at least one detection position (26, 40) when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) with respect to one another change, the first reference point (12) comprising a pivot point, the coupling element (20) being pivotally fixed to the pivot point such that the detectable portion (22) is movable between the start position (24) and the at least one detection position (26, 40); a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at the at least one detection location (26, 40); A laboratory system (10) in which the coupling element (20) is a lever having a first recess (30) and a second recess (32), the pivot point has a first pin (34) that pivotally engages with the first recess (30), and the second reference point (14) has a second pin (36) that movably engages with the second recess (32).

2. 2. The laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory device of claim 1, wherein the distance between the first recess (30) and the second recess (32) is less than the distance between the first recess (30) and the detectable portion (22).

3. A laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) of laboratory equipment (16, 18), said laboratory system (10) comprising: a first laboratory device (16) having a first reference point (12); a second laboratory device (18) having a second reference point (14); a coupling element (20) that couples the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), the coupling element (20) comprising a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a start position (24) and at least one detection position (26, 40) when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) with respect to one another change; a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at the at least one detection location (26, 40); The first reference point (12) and a portion of the coupling element (20) are located between two stop elements (38) such that the coupling element (20) hits one of the two stop elements (38) when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) with respect to each other change, the second reference point (14) having a support element (39) to which the coupling element (20) is attached, and the coupling element (20) is bendable.

4. 4. A laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the detectable portion (22) is movable between the start position (24) and a first detection position (26) and between the start position (24) and a second detection position (40), and the start position (24) is located between the first detection position (26) and the second detection position (40).

5. 5. A laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the detectable portion (22) comprises a first sub-portion (21) and a second sub-portion (23), and the sensor (28) is configured to detect the first sub-portion (21) when the coupling element (20) is in the first detection position (26), and the sensor (28) is configured to detect the second sub-portion (23) when the coupling element (20) is in the second detection position (40).

6. 6. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first reference point (12) is positioned at a first specified distance to a first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second reference point (14) is positioned at a second specified distance to a second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18).

7. 7. The laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of laboratory equipment as recited in claim 6, wherein the first position (50) of the first laboratory equipment (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory equipment (18) are movable relative to each other.

8. 8. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices as described in claim 6 or 7, wherein the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) is defined by a first plane (54), the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) is defined by a second plane (56), and the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel to each other.

9. 9. The laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory apparatus of claim 8, wherein when the detectable portion (22) is in the start position (24), the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are substantially coplanar, or when the detectable portion (22) is in the start position (24), the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are located at a predetermined distance from each other.

10. 10. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory equipment as described in claim 8 or 9, wherein the first plane (54) comprises a first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory equipment (16) adapted to transport a laboratory container (61) or a laboratory carrier (58), and the second plane (56) comprises a second planar transport surface (57) of the second laboratory equipment (18) adapted to transport a laboratory container (61) or a laboratory carrier (58), and the first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57) are adjacent to each other.

11. 10. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices as described in claim 8 or 9, wherein the first plane (54) comprises a level at which a laboratory container (61) placed on the first laboratory device (16) must be gripped, and the second plane (56) comprises a gripping level of a gripper (60) of the second laboratory device (18).

12. 12. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the laboratory system (10) further comprises a control unit (62) communicatively connected to the sensor (28), the control unit (62) being configured to trigger a maintenance action when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at the at least one detection location (26, 40).

13. 13. A method (66) of operating a laboratory system as recited in claim 12, comprising the steps (68, 70): detecting the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at the at least one detection location (26, 40) with the sensor (28); and triggering a maintenance operation by said control unit (52).

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