Laboratory system for monitoring a reference point of a laboratory device

Abstract

A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus. This disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus. The laboratory system includes: a first laboratory apparatus including a first reference point; a second laboratory apparatus including a second reference point; and a coupling element. The coupling element connects the first reference point and the second reference point. The coupling element includes a detectable portion adapted to move between a starting position and at least one detection position as the relative positions of the first and second reference points change relative to each other. The laboratory system further includes a sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element at the at least one detection position. Furthermore, a method of operating the laboratory system is disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure pertains to the field of automated in vitro diagnostic laboratory testing. Within this field, this disclosure relates to laboratory systems for monitoring reference points of laboratory equipment and methods for operating such laboratory systems. Background Technology

[0002] In diagnostic laboratory settings, laboratory containers, such as test liquid vessels, are transported or transferred between multiple laboratory devices according to predefined laboratory workflows to generate accurate and reliable test results that provide physicians with crucial information. Typically, laboratory containers are transported in laboratory carriers that can accommodate 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 dispense laboratory containers to and / or distribute them to operatively coupled pre-analytical, in-analytical, and post-analytical instruments that can perform various processing steps, such as the preparation, analysis, or archiving of test liquids. One or more transport devices can form a laboratory transport system as disclosed in EP2566787B1.

[0003] For safe and reliable handover or transfer of laboratory containers or carriers between laboratory units, accurate positioning of the units is crucial. Typically, when these units are installed in a diagnostic laboratory environment, they are properly aligned and leveled using adjustment tools with adjustable feet, as disclosed in EP2848944B1. However, after installation, the relative positions between laboratory units may change over time, and the safe and reliable transfer of laboratory containers between units will no longer be guaranteed. This change may occur slowly over a long period, such as due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor on which the units are installed. Furthermore, minute changes in the relative positions between units are difficult to detect, but these minute changes can severely interfere with the transfer of laboratory containers between units, leading to damage to the containers and contamination of the units by leaked test fluids.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a simple and reliable method to detect changes in the relative positions of operatively connected laboratory devices in order to better meet the needs of automated in vitro diagnostic laboratory testing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus and a method for operating the laboratory system.

[0006] This disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points in a laboratory apparatus. The laboratory system includes: a first laboratory apparatus including a first reference point; a second laboratory apparatus including a second reference point; and a coupling element. The coupling element connects the first and second reference points. The coupling element includes a detectable portion adapted to move between a starting position and at least one detection position as the relative positions of the first and second reference points change with respect to each other. The laboratory system further includes a sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element at at least one detection position.

[0007] This disclosure also relates to a method for operating a laboratory system as described herein. The method includes the following steps:

[0008] a) The detectable portion of the connecting element is detected by a sensor at at least one detection location;

[0009] b) Maintenance operations are triggered by the control unit. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figures 1A to 1D show schematic side views of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus.

[0011] Figures 2A and 2B show another schematic side view of an embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus.

[0012] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of another embodiment of a laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus.

[0013] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for operating a laboratory system with a reference point for monitoring laboratory facilities. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This disclosure relates to a laboratory system for monitoring reference points in a laboratory apparatus. The laboratory system includes: a first laboratory apparatus including a first reference point; a second laboratory apparatus including a second reference point; and a coupling element. The coupling element connects the first and second reference points. The coupling element includes a detectable portion adapted to move between a starting position and at least one detection position as the relative positions of the first and second reference points change with respect to each other. The laboratory system further includes a sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element at at least one detection position.

[0015] As used herein, the term "laboratory system" refers to a system designed for handling laboratory containers or test liquids within laboratory containers using laboratory apparatus. A laboratory system may include two or more laboratory apparatuses that are operatively interconnected. Laboratory apparatuses may be transport devices, pre-analytical instruments, analytical instruments, or post-analytical instruments.

[0016] As used herein, the term "transport device" refers to a device designed to transport laboratory containers to, or within, pre-analytical, or post-analytical instruments and / or within said analytical instruments. A transport device may include a plane comprising a planar transport 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 on which a self-propelled laboratory carrier can move. Alternatively, the transport device may include multiple electromagnetic actuators fixedly arranged below the planar transport surface and adapted to generate a magnetic field to move the laboratory carrier. The transport device may be designed according to reference numeral 51 in Figure 1 of EP2566787B1 and the corresponding description. Multiple transport devices may form a laboratory transport system. Such a laboratory transport system arrangement may be designed according to reference numeral 100 in EP2566787 and the corresponding description.

[0017] As used herein, the term "laboratory container" refers to a device configured to receive, hold, transport, and / or release test liquids. As a non-limiting example, a laboratory container may be a test liquid vessel 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 liquid" refers to a patient sample (e.g., serum, plasma, whole blood, urine, saliva, cerebrospinal fluid, bone marrow, etc.) from which the presence and concentration (if required) of an analyte or related parameters of the analyte can be determined using test reagents. Typically, test reagents comprise a substance or solution that reacts with an analyte or an analyte-related substance in the biological liquid to generate a measurable signal indicating the presence and / or concentration of the analyte in the biological liquid.

[0018] As used herein, the term "laboratory carrier" refers to a device configured for receiving, holding, transporting, and / or releasing one or more laboratory containers. As a non-limiting example, a laboratory carrier may be a laboratory container holder or a laboratory container rack. In one embodiment, a laboratory carrier includes at least one magnetically active device that interacts with a magnetic field to apply a magnetic force to the laboratory carrier. Laboratory carriers including at least one magnetically active device that interacts with a magnetic field are well known in the art and can be designed according to reference numeral 10 and the corresponding description in EP2988134A1, or reference numeral 1 and the corresponding description in EP3070479A1. In another embodiment, a laboratory carrier includes motor-driven wheels. Laboratory carriers including motor-driven wheels are well known in the art and can be designed as described in US9182419B2. In another embodiment, a laboratory carrier is configured to be transported on a planar transport surface including one or more conveyor belts to move and stop the laboratory carrier on the planar transport surface.

[0019] Pre-analytical instruments are typically used for preliminary treatment steps of laboratory containers and / or test liquids. As non-limiting examples, preliminary treatment steps include centrifugation of the test liquid, separation of the analyte from the test liquid, resuspension of the test liquid (e.g., by mixing or vortexing), capping of the laboratory container, decapping of the laboratory container, recapping of the laboratory container, sorting of the laboratory container, identification of the laboratory container type, determination of the mass of the test liquid, and / or aliquoting.

[0020] For example, an analytical instrument may be designed to use a test liquid or a portion thereof to generate a measurable signal, based on which the presence of an analyte in the test liquid can be determined, and, if necessary, its concentration. As non-limiting examples, analytical instruments include clinical chemistry analyzers, coagulation chemistry analyzers, immunochemistry analyzers, urine analyzers, and / or nucleic acid analyzers.

[0021] Post-analytical instruments are typically used for the post-processing of laboratory containers and / or test liquids, such as the archiving of laboratory containers. Post-analytical instruments for archiving (storing and retrieving) laboratory containers are well known in the art and can be designed according to reference numeral 10 in Figure 1 of EP2148204B1 and the corresponding description.

[0022] Pre-analytical instruments, analytical instruments, and post-analytical instruments may include at least one device from, for example, the group consisting of: grippers for gripping and sorting laboratory containers; transport devices for conveying or transferring laboratory containers or laboratory carriers; cap removal devices for removing caps or closures from laboratory containers; cap assembly devices for attaching caps or closures to laboratory containers; cap removal / assembly devices for removing / assembling caps or closures from laboratory containers; pipetting devices for dispensing test liquids; dispensing devices for aliquoting test liquids; centrifugation devices for centrifuging test liquids; analytical devices for analyzing test liquids; heating devices for heating test liquids; cooling devices for cooling test liquids; mixing devices for mixing test liquids; separation devices for separating analytes from test liquids; storage devices for storing laboratory containers; archiving devices for archiving laboratory containers; laboratory container type determination devices for determining the type of laboratory container; test liquid quality determination devices for determining the quality of test liquids; and laboratory container identification devices for identifying laboratory containers. Such pre-analytical instruments, analytical instruments, post-analytical instruments, and processing devices are well known in the art.

[0023] As used herein, the term "connecting element" refers to a mechanical element that directly or indirectly connects, links, or links a first reference point and a second reference point. When the first and second reference points are connected, linked, or linked to each other, changes in their relative positions can be easily detected. In one embodiment, the connecting element includes two opposing ends, one of which includes a detectable portion. In one embodiment, the first and second laboratory devices are connected to each other solely by a connecting element.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first reference point includes a pivot point. A connecting element is pivotally fixed to the pivot point to allow the detectable portion to move between a starting position and at least one detection position. Thus, the detectable portion is movable between the starting position and at least one detection position through rotational movement of the connecting element. In a more specific embodiment, the connecting element is a rod-like member including a first recess and a second recess. The pivot point includes a first pin pivotally engaged with the first recess. The second reference point includes a second pin movably engaged with the second recess. In one embodiment, the rod-like member is made of a rigid material. For example, the rod-like member may be made of rigid metal or plastic. In one embodiment, the first recess is a circular hole in the connecting element. The second recess is an elongated hole in the connecting element. The circular hole and / or elongated hole may be a recess or a through-hole in the rod-like member. In one embodiment, the rod-like member includes two opposing ends, and one of the two opposing ends includes the detectable portion.

[0025] In one embodiment, the distance between the first recess and the second recess is less than the distance between the first recess and the detectable portion. Therefore, a small movement of the first reference point in a first or second linear movement direction and / or a small movement of the second reference point in a third or fourth linear movement direction can result in a larger movement of the detectable portion. Thus, small and / or slow changes in the relative positions of the first and second reference points with respect to each other can be amplified for detection by the sensor.

[0026] 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. Therefore, 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 can result in a small 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.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, a first reference point and a portion of the connecting element are located between two stop elements, such that the connecting element collides with one of the two stop elements when the relative positions of the first and second reference points change relative to each other. The second reference point includes a support element on which the connecting element is mounted. The connecting element is flexible. Therefore, the connecting element bends by colliding with one of the two stop elements, causing the detectable portion to move from a starting position to at least one detection position. In one embodiment, the stop element is a cylindrical pin. In another embodiment, the stop element is a prism, wherein one side of each prism faces each other, and the reference point is located between the two sides. In one embodiment, the connecting element is made of a flexible material. The connecting element may be made of a sheet material. Thus, as an example, the sheet material may be made of a material with spring properties, such as a plastic material or a sheet of metal (such as a spring sheet).

[0028] As used herein, the term "reference point" refers to the location, place, or object of a laboratory apparatus used to determine whether the position of the laboratory apparatus or a portion thereof has changed relative to another laboratory apparatus or a portion thereof. If the relative position between the reference point and the reference point of another laboratory apparatus changes, the relative position between the laboratory apparatus or a portion thereof and the other laboratory apparatus or a portion thereof changes. By moving the first laboratory apparatus along a first linear direction of movement and a second linear direction of movement opposite to the first linear direction of movement, the first reference point of the first laboratory apparatus can move along the first linear direction of movement and the second linear direction of movement opposite to the first linear direction of movement. By moving the second laboratory apparatus along a third linear direction of movement and a fourth linear direction of movement opposite to the third linear direction of movement, the second reference point of the second laboratory apparatus can move along the third linear direction of movement and the fourth linear direction of movement opposite to the third linear direction of movement. The first, second, third, and fourth directions of movement are parallel to each other. The first linear direction of movement is opposite to the fourth linear direction of movement. The second linear direction of movement is opposite to the third linear direction of movement. Therefore, when the first reference point moves along the first linear movement direction or the second linear movement direction, the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to each other change; and / or when the second reference point moves along the third linear movement direction or the fourth linear movement direction, the relative positions of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to each other may change.

[0029] 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 each other over a period of time. During installation, the first and second laboratory devices are positioned relative to each other to ensure safe and reliable interaction between the two devices, with the first and second reference points in predetermined positions and the detectable portion in an initial position. If the relative positions of the first and second reference points change relative to each other, the detectable portion moves to at least one detection position. The distance between the initial position and the detection position is related to or associated with acceptable or permissible changes in the relative positions of 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 for safe and reliable interaction between the two devices. If the sensor detects the detectable portion at at least one detection position, the change in the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to each other becomes unacceptable or not permissible, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0030] In one embodiment, the detectable portion is movable between a starting position and a first detection position, and between a starting position and a second detection position. The starting position is located between the first and second detection positions. For example, when the second reference point moves along a third linear movement direction and / or the first reference point moves along a second linear movement direction opposite to the third linear movement direction, the detectable portion moves from the starting position to the first detection position. When the first reference point moves along the first linear movement direction and / or the second reference point moves along a fourth linear movement direction opposite to the first linear movement direction, the detectable portion moves from the starting position to the second detection position.

[0031] In one embodiment, the detectable portion includes a first sub-portion and a second sub-portion. A sensor is configured to detect the first sub-portion when the connecting element is in a first detection position. A sensor is configured to detect the second sub-portion when the connecting element is in a second detection position. In a more specific embodiment, the detectable portion is a forked end of the connecting element, wherein one end of the forked end includes the first sub-portion and the other end of the forked end includes the second sub-portion. For example, the connecting element is a rod-like member having a U-shaped end including both the first and second sub-portions.

[0032] In one embodiment, the detectable portion may also be movable between a first detection position and a third detection position. The first detection position is located between the starting position and the third detection position. The laboratory system includes another sensor configured to detect the detectable portion of the coupling element in the third detection position. For example, the detectable portion moves from the first detection position to the third detection position when the second reference point moves further along a third linear movement direction and / or the first reference point moves further along a second linear movement direction opposite to the third linear movement direction. The distance between the starting position and the third detection position is related to or associated with an acceptable or permissible 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 a portion thereof relative to the second laboratory device or a portion thereof still allows for safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices. If the detectable portion is in the first detection position and is detected by the sensor, the change in the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to each other is still acceptable or permissible, but may trigger an alarm to indicate that the detectable portion is approaching the third detection position. If the detectable part is in the third detection position and is detected by another sensor, the change in the relative position of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to each other becomes unacceptable or not allowed, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0033] In one embodiment, the detectable portion may also be movable between a second detection position and a fourth detection position. The second detection position is located between the starting position and the fourth detection position. The laboratory system further includes another sensor configured to detect the detectable portion in the fourth detection position. For example, the detectable portion moves from the second detection position to the fourth detection position when the first reference point moves further along a first linear movement direction and / or the second reference point moves further along a fourth linear movement direction opposite to the first linear movement direction. The distance between the starting position and the fourth detection position is related to or associated with an acceptable or permissible 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 a portion thereof relative to the second laboratory device or a portion thereof still allows for safe and reliable interaction between the two laboratory devices. If the detectable portion is in the second detection position and is detected by the sensor, the change in the relative positions of the first and second reference points relative to each other is still acceptable or permissible, but may trigger an alarm to indicate that the detectable portion is approaching the fourth detection position. If the detectable part is in the fourth detection position and is detected by another sensor, the change in the relative position of the first reference point and the second reference point with respect to each other becomes unacceptable or not allowed, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0034] In one embodiment, a first reference point is located at a first defined distance relative to a first position of the first laboratory apparatus. A second reference point is located at a second defined distance relative to a second position of the second laboratory apparatus. The first position may be located on, within, or at a defined distance relative to the first laboratory apparatus. The second position may be located on, within, or at a defined distance relative to the second laboratory apparatus. In one embodiment, the lengths of the first and second defined distances may be the same or different.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device include tools for adjusting the length of the first defined distance and / or the second defined distance. During installation of the first and second laboratory devices, the first reference point and / or the second reference point can be moved to predetermined positions such that when the first and second reference points are in the predetermined positions, a portion can be detected as being in the initial position. For example, the first reference point includes a first pin, and the second reference point includes a second pin. The first pin and / or the second pin are movably mounted on a guide element and can be fixed to the guide element at predetermined positions, such as by screws.

[0036] When the first position of the first laboratory device and the second position of the second laboratory device are in predetermined positions relative to each other, safe and reliable interaction between the first and second laboratory devices is ensured. As a non-limiting example, the interaction between the first and second laboratory devices is the transfer or handover of laboratory supports, laboratory containers, and / or test liquids between the first and second laboratory devices. In one embodiment, the first position of the first laboratory device and the second position of the second laboratory device are movable relative to each other. In a more specific embodiment, the first position of the first laboratory device and the second position of the second laboratory device are movable relative to each other due to movement between the first and second laboratory devices or due to environmental factors acting on the first and / or second laboratory devices. Movement between the first and second laboratory devices can be caused by the characteristics or uneven movement of the laboratory floor or laboratory walls, causing the first laboratory device to sink or translate relative to the second laboratory device. Therefore, the relative positions between the first and second reference points, and the relative positions of the first and second positions, can vary due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor on which the first and second laboratory devices are mounted, or due to uneven movement of the laboratory walls on which the first and second laboratory devices are attached. Movement between the first and second laboratory devices can also be caused by forces acting on the first and / or second laboratory devices. For example, a user might accidentally bump into the first and / or second laboratory devices. Furthermore, environmental factors such as temperature or humidity can cause the laboratory devices or parts thereof to expand or contract, thereby altering the relative positions of the first and second positions with respect to each other. 。 The distance between the starting position and at least one detection position is associated with acceptable or permissible variations 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, thereby ensuring safe and reliable interaction, such as the transfer of laboratory carriers between the first and second laboratory devices. If the sensor detects a detectable portion at at least one detection position, then variations in the relative positions of the first and second positions with respect to each other become unacceptable or permissible, and maintenance operations as further described below may be initiated.

[0037] In one embodiment, a first position of the first laboratory device includes a first plane, and a second position of the second laboratory device includes a second plane. The first and second planes are parallel to each other. In a more specific embodiment, the first and second planes are substantially coplanar when the detectable portion is in the initial position, or the first and second planes are located at a predetermined distance relative to each other when the detectable portion is in the initial position. In one embodiment, the first and second planes are horizontally or vertically oriented.

[0038] In a more specific embodiment, the first plane includes a first planar transport surface of the first laboratory apparatus, adapted to transport a laboratory container or laboratory carrier. The second plane includes a second planar transport surface of the second laboratory apparatus, adapted to transport a laboratory container or laboratory carrier. The first and second planar transport surfaces are adjacent to each other. For a safe and reliable handover or transfer of the laboratory container or laboratory carrier between the first and second planar transport surfaces, the first and second planes must be substantially coplanar. If the sensor detects a detectable portion at at least one detection location, the offset between the first and second planes is too large to ensure the safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory container or laboratory carrier, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first plane includes a horizontal plane on which the laboratory container on the first laboratory device must be clamped. The second plane includes a clamping horizontal plane of the gripper of the second laboratory device. In one embodiment, the first plane is parallel to the planar transport surface of the first laboratory device at a defined distance, and the first plane includes a horizontal plane (on which the laboratory container on the first laboratory device must be clamped). For the laboratory container to be safely and reliably transferred or moved between the planar transport surface of the first laboratory device and the gripper of the second laboratory device, the first and second planes must be substantially coplanar. If the sensor detects a detectable portion at at least one detection location, the offset between the first and second planes is too large to ensure the safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory container, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first plane includes the horizontal plane containing the test liquid to be aspirated or dispensed from the laboratory container of the first laboratory apparatus. The second plane includes the horizontal plane containing the aspiration or dispensing level of the pipette of the second laboratory apparatus. In one embodiment, the first plane, including the horizontal plane containing the test liquid in the laboratory container to be aspirated or dispensed from the first laboratory apparatus, defines a distance parallel to the planar transport surface of the first laboratory apparatus. For a safe and reliable transfer of the test liquid between the laboratory container on the first laboratory apparatus and the pipette of the second laboratory apparatus, the first and second planes must be substantially coplanar. If the sensor detects a detectable portion 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 test liquid, and maintenance operations described further below may be initiated.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first and second laboratory devices are the same or different types of laboratory devices. In one embodiment, the first laboratory device is a transport device, a pre-analytical instrument, an analytical instrument, or a post-analytical instrument. The second laboratory device is a transport device, a pre-analytical instrument, an analytical instrument, or a post-analytical instrument. In one embodiment, the first and second laboratory devices are adjacent to each other. In one embodiment, multiple adjacent transport devices may form a transport system for transporting or distributing laboratory containers to operatively coupled pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical instruments. In another embodiment, the transport device may be located in front of the pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical instrument, including a gripper for gripping the laboratory container from the transport device. In another embodiment, the pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical instrument includes a transport device for receiving a laboratory container or laboratory carrier from the transport device located in front of the instrument or for transporting a laboratory container or laboratory carrier within the instrument.

[0042] In one embodiment, the sensor is a light-blocking plate, a pressure sensor, a camera, an inductive sensor, or a conductive sensor. For example, the sensor is a light-blocking plate adapted to detect an interruption in the light beam caused by a detectable portion of a connecting element. The interruption in the light beam generates a signal that is transmitted to a control unit communicatively connected to the sensor.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first and / or second laboratory apparatus includes a tool for manually or automatically adjusting a first plane and a second plane relative to each other. In one specific embodiment, the tool for adjustment is an adjustable leg of the laboratory apparatus. For example, each adjustable leg includes two portions movable relative to each other for extending or retracting the leg. The leg may further include an actuator, such as an electric motor, for extending or retracting the leg to adjust the first and second planes relative to each other. Alternatively, the two portions may be moved manually to manually adjust the first and second planes relative to each other. In another specific embodiment, the tool for adjustment is a robotic arm with a gripper mounted thereon. The robotic arm is configured to move the gripper in three dimensions and position the gripper on a clamping plane. If the first plane includes a plane (on which the laboratory container on the first laboratory apparatus must be clamped), and the second plane includes the clamping plane of the gripper of the second laboratory apparatus, and the offset between the first and second planes is too large for the safe and reliable transfer of the laboratory load, the movement of the robotic arm may be reconfigured or readjusted based on this offset.

[0044] In one embodiment, the laboratory system further includes a control unit communicatively connected to the sensor. The control unit is configured to trigger a maintenance operation when the sensor detects a detectable portion at at least one detection location. In one embodiment, the maintenance operation includes one or more of the following:

[0045] - The control unit displays a user notification on the screen, prompting the user to adjust the first and second planes relative to each other.

[0046] - The control unit is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device, and shuts down the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device.

[0047] The control unit is further communicatively connected to the tool for automatic adjustment and controls the tool to adjust the first and second planes relative to each other.

[0048] As used herein, the term "control unit" encompasses any physical or virtual processing device including a processor configured to control a laboratory system. For example, the processor of the control unit may be embodied as a programmable logic controller adapted to execute a computer-readable program having instructions for performing operations on the laboratory system. In one embodiment, the control unit includes a display on which a user notification prompting a user to adjust a first plane and a second plane relative to each other may be displayed. The user notification may further include instructions on how to adjust the first plane and the second plane relative to each other. For example, the user may receive information about which adjustable leg of which laboratory device must be extended or retracted. Thus, one operation of the control unit is to display the user notification when a sensor detects a detectable portion of the connecting element. In one embodiment, the control unit is further communicatively connected to a first laboratory device and / or a second laboratory device, and another operation of the control unit is to shut down the first laboratory device and / or the second laboratory device when a sensor detects a detectable portion of the connecting element. This prevents unsafe or unreliable interaction between the first and second laboratory devices. In one embodiment, the control unit is further communicatively connected to a tool for automatic adjustment, and another operation of the control unit is to control the tool for automatic adjustment to adjust the first and second planes relative to each other when a sensor detects a detectable portion of the connecting element. For example, the control unit controls one or more actuators for adjusting (extending or retracting) one or more adjustable legs of the laboratory apparatus. Alternatively, the control unit may reconfigure or readjust the movement of the robotic arm.

[0049] This disclosure also relates to a method for operating a laboratory system as described herein. The method includes the following steps:

[0050] a) The detectable portion of the connecting element is detected by a sensor at at least one detection location;

[0051] b) Maintenance operations are triggered by the control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Figures 1A to 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) includes a first laboratory device (16) containing a first reference point (12) and a second laboratory device (18) containing a second reference point (14). The laboratory system (10) further includes a coupling element (20) connecting the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14). The coupling element (20) includes a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a starting 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) change relative to each other. The laboratory system (10) further includes a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at at least one detection position (26, 40).

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the first reference point (12) includes a pivot point, and the connecting element (20) is pivotally fixed to the pivot point, such that the detectable portion (22) is movable between a starting position (24) and at least one detection position (26, 40). The connecting element (20) shown is a rod-shaped member made of a rigid material. The rod-shaped member includes a first recess (30) and a second recess (32). The pivot point includes a first pin (34) pivotally engaged with the first recess (30), and the second reference point (14) includes a second pin (36) movably engaged with the second recess (32). The first recess (30) is a circular hole in the connecting element (20), and the second recess (32) is an elongated hole in the connecting element (20). As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the detectable portion (22) is movable between the starting position (24) and the first detection position (26). As shown in Figure 1C, the detectable portion (22) is also movable between the starting position (24) and the second detection position (40). The detectable portion (22) includes a first sub-part (21) and a second sub-part (23). The sensor (28) is configured to detect the first sub-part (21) when the connecting element (20) is in the first detection position (26) (as shown in Figure 1B). The sensor (28) is configured to detect the second sub-part (23) when the connecting element (20) is in the second detection position (40) (as shown in Figure 1C). As further shown in Figure 1A, the first reference point (12) is located at a first defined distance relative to the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16), as shown by the first vertical dashed line. The second reference point (14) is located at a second defined distance relative to the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18), as shown by the second vertical dashed line in Figure 1A. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first defined distance and the length of the second defined distance are the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) are movable relative to each other, as shown in Figures 1A to 1D. For example, the movement between the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), causing the second laboratory device (18) to sink relative to the first laboratory device (16), as shown in Figure 1B. Alternatively, the movement between the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) may be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), causing the first laboratory device (16) to sink relative to the second laboratory device (18), as shown in Figure 1C.Therefore, 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 the uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are installed.

[0055] As further shown in Figures 1A to 1D, the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) includes a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) includes a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel to each other. In Figure 1A, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable portion (22) is in the starting position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are transport devices, each including planar transport surfaces (55, 57). The first plane (54) includes the first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory device (16), which is adapted to transport the laboratory carrier (58), such as Figure 1A As shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 1A, the laboratory carrier (58) on the first planar transport surface (55) is loaded with a laboratory container (61). The second plane (56) includes the second planar transport surface (57) of the second laboratory apparatus (18), which is adapted to transport the laboratory carrier (58), as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 1A. 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 Figure 1B, due to the uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are offset, and the detectable portion (22) is in the first detection position (26). Similarly, in Figure 1C, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are no longer coplanar, but the detectable portion (22) is in the second detection position (40).

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) include tools (59) (such as adjustable legs) for automatically adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other, such that the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar again, and the laboratory carrier (58) can be safely and reliably transported between the first and second plane transport surfaces (55, 57) (as indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG1D). In the illustrated embodiment, the laboratory system (10) further includes a control unit (62) communicatively connected to the sensor (28) (as indicated by the dashed lines) and communicatively connected to the tool (59) for automatic adjustment. The control unit (62) is configured to control the tool (59) for automatic adjustment to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other when the sensor (28) detects a detectable portion (22) in 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 the control unit shuts down 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 transport 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 tools (59), such as adjustable legs, for manually adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other. Additionally, the control unit (62) is configured to display a user notification on the display (64) when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection position (26, 40), prompting the user to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other.

[0057] Figures 2A and 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) includes a first laboratory device (16) containing a first reference point (12) and a second laboratory device (18) containing a second reference point (14). The laboratory system (10) further includes a coupling element (20) connecting the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14). The coupling element (20) includes a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a starting 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) change relative to each other. The laboratory system (10) further includes a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at at least one detection position (26).

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element (20) is flexible. A portion of the first reference point (12) and the connecting element (20) is located between two cylindrical pin-type stop elements (38), such that when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) change relative to each other, the connecting element (20) strikes one of the two stop elements (38), as shown in FIG2B. The second reference point (14) includes a support element (39) on which the connecting element (20) is mounted. Thus, the connecting element (20) bends by striking one of the two stop elements (38), causing the detectable portion (22) to move from the starting position (24) to at least one detection position (26), as shown in FIG2B. Figure 2BAs shown. The detectable portion (22) is also movable between the starting position (24) and the second detection position (40, not shown in FIG. 2). As further shown, the detectable portion (22) includes 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 connecting element (20) is in the first detection position (26) (as shown in FIG. 1B). The sensor (28) can also be configured to detect the second sub-portion (23) when the connecting element (20) is in the second detection position (40, not shown in FIG. 2). As further shown in FIG. 2A, the first reference point (12) is located at a first defined distance relative to the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16), as shown by the first vertical dashed line. And the second reference point (14) is located at a second defined distance relative to the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18), as shown by the second vertical dashed line in FIG. 2A. In the illustrated embodiment, the lengths of the first defined distance and the second defined distance are the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) are movable relative to each other, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. For example, the movement between the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) can be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), causing the second laboratory device (18) to sink relative to the first laboratory device (16), as shown in Figure 2B. Therefore, 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) can change due to the movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are mounted. As further shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) includes a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) includes a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel to each other. In Figure 2A, the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable portion (22) is in the starting position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are transport devices, each including planar transport surfaces (55, 57). The first plane (54) includes the first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory device (16), which is adapted to transport the laboratory carrier (58, not shown in Figure 2).The second plane (56) includes a second plane transport surface (57) of the second laboratory device (18), which is adapted to transport the laboratory carrier (58, not shown in FIG. 2). The first plane transport surface (55) and the second plane transport surface (57) are adjacent to each other, such that the laboratory carrier (58) can be transported or transferred between the first plane transport surface (55) and the second plane transport surface (57). In FIG. 2B, due to the uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are offset, and the detectable portion (22) is in the first detection position (26).

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (18) include tools (59), such as adjustable legs, for automatically adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other. The laboratory system (10) may further include a control unit (62), as shown by the dashed line, which is communicatively connected to the sensor (28) and the tool (59) for automatic adjustment. The control unit (62) is configured to control the tool (59) for automatic adjustment to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other when the sensor (28) detects a 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 device (16) and / or the second laboratory device (18), and shuts down 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). Thus, unsafe or unreliable transfer or transport 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 tools (59), such as adjustable legs, for manually adjusting the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other. Additionally, the control unit (62) is configured to display a user notification on the display (64) when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at at least one detection position (26, 40), prompting the user to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other.

[0060] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of another embodiment of a laboratory system (10) for monitoring reference points (12, 14) of a laboratory apparatus. As shown in Figure 1, the laboratory system (10) includes: a first laboratory apparatus (16) including a first reference point (12); a second laboratory apparatus (18) including a second reference point (14); a connecting element (20) connecting 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 located at a first defined distance relative to a first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16), as indicated by a first vertical dashed line in Figure 3. The first position (50) is located at a defined distance from the first laboratory apparatus (16). As indicated by a second vertical dashed line in Figure 3, the second reference point (14) is located at a second defined distance relative to a second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18). The second position (52) is located at a defined distance relative to the second laboratory device (16). In the illustrated embodiment, the lengths of the first and second defined distances are the same. The distance between the first position (50) and the first laboratory device (16) and the distance between the second position (52) and the second laboratory device (18) are also the same. The first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) are movable relative to each other. For example, the movement between the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) can be caused by uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53), causing the second laboratory device (18) to sink relative to the first laboratory device (16). Therefore, 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) can change due to uneven movement of the laboratory floor (53) on which the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18) are mounted. However, Figure 3 only depicts the state of the laboratory system (10) after the installation of the first laboratory device (16) and the second laboratory device (18). As further shown in Figure 3, the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) includes a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) includes a second plane (56). The first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are coplanar, and the detectable portion (22) is in the initial position (24). In the illustrated embodiment, the first laboratory device (16) is a transport device including a planar transport surface (55).The second laboratory apparatus (18) is a pre-analytical, analytical, or post-analytical instrument including a gripper (60) mounted on a robotic arm (63). A first plane (54) includes a horizontal plane on which the laboratory container (61) located on the planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) must be clamped. A second plane (56) includes the clamping horizontal plane of the gripper (60) of the second laboratory apparatus (18). The first plane (54), which includes the horizontal plane on which the laboratory container (61) located on the first laboratory apparatus (16) must be clamped, is shown to be parallel to the planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) at a defined distance. For a safe and reliable transfer or handover of the laboratory container (61) between the gripper (60) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) and the second laboratory apparatus (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 robotic arm (63) can be reconfigured or readjusted based on that offset.

[0061] Figure 4 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method (66) for operating a laboratory system (10) with reference points (12, 14) of the operation monitoring laboratory apparatus (16, 18) as described in Figures 1 to 3. In a first step a) (68) of method (66), a sensor (28) detects a detectable portion (22) of a connecting element (20) at at least one detection location (26, 40). Subsequently, a control unit (52) triggers a maintenance operation in step b) (70) of method (66). The maintenance operation includes one or more of the following: the control unit (62) displays a user notification on a display (64) to prompt the user to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other. And / or the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the first laboratory apparatus (16) and / or the second laboratory apparatus (18) and shuts down the first laboratory apparatus (16) and / or the second laboratory apparatus (18). And / or the control unit (62) is further communicatively connected to the tool (59) for automatic adjustment and controls the tool (59) for automatic adjustment to adjust the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) relative to each other.

[0062] In the foregoing description and accompanying drawings, numerous specific details have been set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific details are not required to practice what is taught herein. In other instances, well-known materials or methods have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring this disclosure.

[0063] In particular, modifications and variations to the disclosed embodiments are of course possible based on the above description. Therefore, it should be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced in ways different from those specifically designed in the above examples.

[0064] Throughout this specification, the terms "an embodiment," "an embodiment," "an instance," or "an example" refer to a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in relation to an embodiment or example that is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in an embodiment," "in an embodiment," "an example," or "an example" appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0065] List of reference numerals

[0066] 10 Laboratory Systems

[0067] 12 First Reference Point

[0068] 14 Second Reference Point

[0069] 16 First Laboratory Facility

[0070] 18 Second Laboratory Facility

[0071] 20 Connecting elements

[0072] 21 First Sub-part

[0073] 22 Detectable Components

[0074] 23 Second Sub-part

[0075] 24 Starting position

[0076] 26 First detection position

[0077] 28 sensors

[0078] 30 First recess

[0079] 32 Second recess

[0080] 34 First Selling

[0081] 36 Second Selling

[0082] 38 Stopping elements

[0083] 39 Support elements

[0084] 40 Second detection position

[0085] 50 The first position of the first laboratory device

[0086] 52 Second position of the second laboratory device

[0087] 53 Laboratory Floor

[0088] 54 First plane

[0089] 55 First Planar Transport Surface

[0090] 56 Second plane

[0091] 57 Second Plane Transport Surface

[0092] 58 Laboratory load-bearing components

[0093] 59 Tools for manually or automatically adjusting the first and second planes

[0094] 60 clamp

[0095] 61 Laboratory Containers

[0096] 62 Control Unit

[0097] 63 robotic arms

[0098] 64 monitors

[0099] 66 methods

[0100] 68. Steps of the method a)

[0101] Step b) of method 70

Claims

1. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus, wherein the laboratory system (10) comprises: - First laboratory apparatus (16), which includes a first reference point (12). - A second laboratory apparatus (18), which includes a second reference point (14). - A connecting element (20), wherein the connecting element (20) connects the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), Its features - The connecting element (20) includes a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a starting 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) relative to each other change. The laboratory system (10) further includes a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at the at least one detection location (26, 40). - wherein the first reference point (12) includes a pivot point, wherein the connecting element (20) is pivotally fixed to the pivot point, such that the detectable portion (22) is movable between the starting position (24) and the at least one detection position (26, 40). -The connecting element (20) is a rod-shaped member including a first recess (30) and a second recess (32), wherein the pivot point includes a first pin (34) pivotally engaged with the first recess (30), and wherein the second reference point (14) includes a second pin (36) movably engaged with the second recess (32).

2. The laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus according to 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 for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus, wherein the laboratory system (10) comprises: - First laboratory apparatus (16), which includes a first reference point (12). - A second laboratory apparatus (18), which includes a second reference point (14). - A connecting element (20), wherein the connecting element (20) connects the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14), Its features The connecting element (20) includes a detectable portion (22) adapted to move between a starting 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) relative to each other change. The laboratory system (10) further includes a sensor (28) configured to detect the detectable portion (22) of the coupling element (20) at the at least one detection location (26, 40). - wherein the first reference point (12) and a portion of the connecting element (20) are located between the two stop elements (38) such that when the relative positions of the first reference point (12) and the second reference point (14) relative to each other change, the connecting element (20) strikes one of the two stop elements (38), wherein the second reference point (14) includes a support element (39) on which the connecting element (20) is mounted, wherein the connecting element (20) is flexible.

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

5. The laboratory system for monitoring reference points 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), wherein the sensor (28) is configured to detect the first sub-portion (21) when the connecting element (20) is in the first detection position (26), wherein the sensor (28) is configured to detect the second sub-portion (23) when the connecting element (20) is in the second detection position (40).

6. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first reference point (12) is located at a first defined distance relative to a first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16), and wherein the second reference point (14) is located at a second defined distance relative to a second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18).

7. The laboratory system for monitoring reference points of laboratory devices according to claim 6, wherein the first position (50) of the first laboratory device (16) and the second position (52) of the second laboratory device (18) are movable relative to each other.

8. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the first position (50) of the first laboratory apparatus (16) includes a first plane (54), and the second position (52) of the second laboratory apparatus (18) includes a second plane (56), wherein the first plane (54) and the second plane (56) are parallel to each other.

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

10. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the first plane (54) comprises a first planar transport surface (55) of the first laboratory apparatus (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 apparatus (18) adapted to transport the laboratory container (61) or the laboratory carrier (58), wherein the first planar transport surface (55) and the second planar transport surface (57) are adjacent to each other.

11. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the first plane (54) comprises a horizontal plane, and a laboratory container (61) located on the first laboratory apparatus (16) must be clamped at the horizontal plane, wherein the second plane (56) comprises a clamping horizontal plane of a clamp (60) of the second laboratory apparatus (18).

12. A laboratory system for monitoring reference points of a laboratory apparatus 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), wherein the control unit (62) is configured to trigger a maintenance operation when the sensor (28) detects the detectable portion (22) at the at least one detection location (26, 40).

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