Fully automated water quality testing laboratory, automated water sample delivery method

Abstract

This invention discloses a fully automated water quality testing laboratory and an automated water sample transport method. In this fully automated water quality testing laboratory, after registering the water sample information of the sample bottles to be tested, the control unit controls the sample bottle supply unit to transfer the sample bottles to the transport unit. Then, based on the water sample information of the sample bottles, the transport unit controls the transport unit to transport the sample bottles to the corresponding analysis module group. Finally, the transport unit controls the transport unit to transport the tested sample bottles to the sample bottle recycling unit for collection. The entire process achieves automated matching and transport of testing items without human intervention, exhibiting a high degree of automation. Furthermore, it reduces the number of times the analysis equipment is idle, improving the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment and thus increasing the efficiency of water quality testing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water quality testing technology, and in particular, to a fully automated water quality testing laboratory and an automated method for transporting water samples. Background Technology

[0002] Existing water quality testing laboratories have low levels of automation, require significant human intervention, and necessitate a large reserve of manpower to handle large volumes of samples. Furthermore, the use of automated samplers (AS / RS) in conjunction with one or more water quality analyzers typically involves manually transferring water samples from sampling bottles into the AS / RS, a cumbersome process that requires frequent cleaning of the AS / RS. While automated production lines exist to transport samples to multiple automated analyzers, thus alleviating the manual sample transfer, this system introduces new challenges. The potential for numerous sample bottles to circulate empty on the conveyor belt reduces the overall efficiency of the automated water quality testing system. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a fully automated water quality testing laboratory and an automated method for transporting water samples, in order to solve the technical problems of low automation and low testing efficiency in existing water quality testing laboratories.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fully automated water quality testing laboratory is provided, comprising:

[0005] The sample bottle supply unit is used to temporarily store the sample bottles to be tested after registering the water sample information, and then transport the sample bottles to the conveying unit.

[0006] The analysis unit, comprising several analysis module groups, is used for water quality testing and analysis of the sample bottles to be tested.

[0007] The sample vial recycling unit is used to recycle sample vials that have been tested.

[0008] The conveying unit is used to transport the sample vials to be tested to the corresponding analysis module group and to transport the sample vials that have completed the testing to the sample vial recovery unit;

[0009] The control unit is connected to the sample bottle supply unit, analysis unit, sample bottle recovery unit and conveying unit respectively, and is used to control the working status of each unit to realize the full-process automated control of water sample testing.

[0010] Furthermore, the sample bottle supply unit includes a sample bottle storage area, a transport device, and a first water sample information reading device. The sample bottle storage area is used to temporarily store registered sample bottles. The transport device is used to transport the sample bottles from the sample bottle storage area to the transport unit. The first water sample information reading device is located on the transport path of the transport device and is used to read the water sample information of the transported sample bottles. A first bottle-blocking device is also provided at the docking position between the transport device and the transport unit. The first bottle-blocking device forms a gap with the starting position of the transport device. A new sample detection buffer is established. The transport device, the first water sample information reading device, and the first bottle-blocking device are all connected to the control unit. The control unit is used to match the water sample information of at least one sample bottle to be tested read by the first water sample information reading device with the detection items of each analysis module group. When the water sample information of the Nth sample bottle to be tested is successfully matched with at least one of the idle analysis module groups, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device to open, transports the N sample bottles to be tested to the transport unit, and controls the transport unit to transport the Nth sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding matched analysis module group.

[0011] Furthermore, the conveying unit includes a circular conveyor belt, an automatic baffle, a bottle transfer device, and a position detection device. Several analysis module groups are spaced apart next to the circular conveyor belt. Each analysis module group is equipped with an automatic baffle, a bottle transfer device, and a position detection device at its corresponding position. The automatic baffle, bottle transfer device, and position detection device are all connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to control the working state of the automatic baffle and the bottle transfer device according to the position information of the analysis module group and the position detection result of the position detection device, so as to push the water sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding matching analysis module group.

[0012] Furthermore, the conveying unit is equipped with an automatic baffle, a bottle transfer device, and a second water sample information reading device at the docking position with the sample bottle recycling unit. The second water sample information reading device is connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to identify whether the sample bottle has completed water quality testing based on the water sample information read by the second water sample information reading device, and to control the working status of the automatic baffle and the bottle transfer device based on the identification result.

[0013] Furthermore, the conveying unit also includes a second bottle-blocking device disposed on the annular conveyor belt. The second bottle-blocking device is located between the sample bottle supply unit and the sample bottle recycling unit, and is used to prevent the remaining sample bottles to be tested after the initial water sample test from continuing to be conveyed on the annular conveyor belt to form a secondary test buffer. The second bottle-blocking device is connected to the control unit.

[0014] Furthermore, the control unit is also used to acquire the working status of each analysis module group, and when at least one analysis module group is idle, to select a matching sample bottle to be tested from the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer according to the detection items of the idle analysis module group, and to control the first bottle blocking device or the second bottle blocking device to open accordingly.

[0015] Furthermore, the control unit preferentially selects matching sample vials to be tested from the secondary detection buffer.

[0016] Furthermore, it also includes an alarm unit connected to the control unit, which is also used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm when no matching sample bottle is found in either the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer.

[0017] Furthermore, it also includes a sensing device connected to the control unit for detecting whether the sample bottle has tipped over, and the control unit is also used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the sensing device detects that the sample bottle has tipped over.

[0018] In addition, the present invention also provides an automated method for transporting water samples, comprising the following:

[0019] After receiving the water sample and registering the water sample information in the sample bottle to be tested, the sample bottle to be tested is placed in the sample bottle supply unit for temporary storage.

[0020] The sample vial to be tested is transported to the conveyor unit;

[0021] The sample bottles to be tested are transported to the corresponding analysis module group through the transfer unit for water quality testing and analysis;

[0022] The completed sample vials are transported to the sample vial recycling unit via a conveyor unit.

[0023] The present invention has the following effects:

[0024] The fully automated water quality testing laboratory of this invention, after registering the water sample information of the sample bottles to be tested, controls the sample bottle supply unit through the control unit to transfer the sample bottles to the conveying unit. Then, according to the water sample information of the sample bottles, the control unit controls the conveying unit to transport the sample bottles to the corresponding analysis module group. Finally, the control unit controls the conveying unit to transport the sample bottles that have completed testing to the sample bottle recycling unit for recycling. The entire process realizes automated matching and automated transportation of testing items without human intervention, with a high degree of automation. In addition, it reduces the number of times the analysis equipment is idle, improves the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment, and thus improves the efficiency of water quality testing.

[0025] In addition, the automated water sample delivery method of the present invention also has the above-mentioned advantages.

[0026] In addition to the objectives, features, and advantages described above, the present invention has other objectives, features, and advantages. The invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the figures. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structural layout of a fully automated water quality testing laboratory according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structural arrangement of a bottle-transfer cylinder in each analysis module group in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an automated water sample delivery method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0032] 1. Sample bottle supply unit; 2. Analysis unit; 3. Sample bottle recovery unit; 4. Conveying unit; 11. Sample bottle storage area; 12. Transport device; 13. First water sample information reading device; 14. First bottle blocking device; 41. Circular conveyor belt; 42. Automatic baffle; 43. Bottle transfer device; 44. Second bottle blocking device; 45. Second water sample information reading device; 46. Bottle transfer cylinder; 47. Bottle blocking cylinder. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different ways as defined and covered below.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a fully automated water quality testing laboratory, which includes:

[0035] The sample bottle supply unit 1 is used to temporarily store the sample bottles to be tested after registering the water sample information, and to transport the sample bottles to be tested to the conveying unit 4.

[0036] Analysis Unit 2 includes several analysis module groups, which are used to perform water quality testing and analysis on the sample bottles to be tested;

[0037] Sample vial recycling unit 3 is used to recycle sample vials that have completed testing;

[0038] The conveying unit 4 is used to convey the sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding analysis module group and to convey the sample bottle that has been tested to the sample bottle recovery unit 3.

[0039] The control unit is connected to the sample bottle supply unit 1, the analysis unit 2, the sample bottle recovery unit 3, and the conveying unit 4 respectively, and is used to control the working status of each unit to realize the full-process automated control of water sample testing.

[0040] The sample bottle supply unit 1, several analysis module groups, and sample bottle recycling unit 3 are spaced apart next to the conveying unit 4. The control unit controls the sample bottle supply unit 1 to transport the sample bottles to be tested to the conveying unit 4. Then, based on the water sample information of the sample bottles, it controls the conveying unit 4 to transport the sample bottles to the corresponding analysis module groups, ensuring that the water quality parameters of the sample bottles match the test parameters of the analysis module groups. Finally, it controls the conveying unit 4 to transport the tested sample bottles to the sample bottle recycling unit 3 for recycling. This process achieves automated matching and transport of test items without human intervention, resulting in a high degree of automation. Furthermore, it reduces the number of times the analysis equipment is idle, improving the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment and thus increasing the efficiency of water quality testing.

[0041] The number of analysis module groups included in the analysis unit 2, the type of each analysis module group, and the detection items of each analysis module group can be set according to actual needs, and are not specifically limited here. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the analysis unit 2 includes a type A analysis module group, a type B analysis module group, a type C analysis module group, and a type N analysis module group. There are 4 sets of type A analysis module groups, each of which can detect detection items A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5, respectively. There are 4 sets of type B analysis module groups, each of which can detect detection items B1, B2, B3, B4, and B5, respectively. There are 3 sets of type C analysis module groups, each of which can detect detection items C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5, respectively. There are 3 sets of type N analysis module groups, each of which can detect detection items N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, respectively.

[0042] It is understood that in the fully automated water quality testing laboratory of this embodiment, after the water sample information of the sample bottle to be tested is registered, the control unit controls the sample bottle supply unit 1 to transport the sample bottle to be tested to the conveying unit 4. Then, according to the water sample information of the sample bottle to be tested, the control unit controls the conveying unit 4 to transport the sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding analysis module group. Finally, the control unit controls the conveying unit 4 to transport the sample bottle that has completed the test to the sample bottle recycling unit 3 for recycling. The entire process realizes automated matching and automated transportation of test items without human intervention, with a high degree of automation. In addition, it reduces the number of times the analysis equipment is idle, improves the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment, and thus improves the efficiency of water quality testing.

[0043] Upon receiving the water samples, the process involves registering the water sample information for each sample bottle. This information includes the sampling location, sampling time, sampling personnel, sample delivery time, and the water quality parameters to be tested. Each sample bottle is labeled to provide a unique identifier, distinguishing different samples. During water sample information registration, the information for each sample bottle is associated with its label and stored. The water sample information can be retrieved by reading the label. If the sample bottle was not labeled upon arrival, it must be labeled during water sample information registration. Labeling can be done manually or automatically by an automated labeling device.

[0044] The sample bottle supply unit 1 includes a sample bottle storage area 11, a transport device 12, and a first water sample information reading device 13. The sample bottle storage area 11 is used to temporarily store registered sample bottles. The transport device 12 is used to transport the sample bottles stored in the sample bottle storage area 11 to the transport unit 4. The first water sample information reading device 13 is located on the transport path of the transport device 12 and is used to read water sample information by identifying the markings on the transported sample bottles. A first bottle-blocking device 14 is also provided at the docking position between the transport device 12 and the transport unit 4, thereby forming a new sample detection buffer between the first bottle-blocking device 14 and the starting position of the transport device 12. Multiple sample bottles whose water sample information has been read by the first water sample information reading device 13 are arranged sequentially in the new sample detection buffer, so that the position information of each sample bottle can be known. The transport device 12, the first water sample information reading device 13, and the first bottle-blocking device 14 are all connected to the control unit. The control unit is used to match the water sample information of at least one sample bottle read by the first water sample information reading device 13 with the detection items of each analysis module group. When the water sample information of the Nth (N≥1) sample bottle to be tested is successfully matched with at least one idle analysis module group, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to open, transporting the N sample bottles to be tested to the conveying unit 4, and controls the conveying unit 4 to transport the Nth sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding matched analysis module group. In this way, "precise release" is achieved, improving the predictability and intelligence of the system, optimizing the system's working efficiency, and reducing the transport load of the conveying unit.

[0045] During the initial test, the control unit controls the transport device 12 to sequentially transport multiple sample bottles to be tested stored in the sample bottle storage area 11. These bottles pass sequentially through the first water sample information reading device 13, which reads the water sample information of each bottle and feeds it back to the control unit. The control unit matches the water sample information of each bottle with the analysis module group and opens the first bottle-blocking device 14 to orderly transport the multiple sample bottles stored in the new sample detection buffer to the starting end of the conveying unit 4. Since the position of each analysis module group remains basically fixed, and the multiple sample bottles are arranged sequentially, the control unit controls the conveying unit 4 to sequentially transport the multiple sample bottles to the matched analysis module group for water quality analysis. This achieves automated allocation of sample bottles, reduces the idle rate of the analysis equipment, and improves the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment. It can be understood that once a batch of sample bottles is transported to the conveying unit 4, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to close. Since the sample vials on the conveyor unit 4 have a limited capacity, the number of sample vials transported to the conveyor unit 4 needs to be reasonably controlled. This means that the analysis module group will not be idle, so as to maximize the detection efficiency, and the sample vials on the conveyor belt will not become congested.

[0046] Furthermore, because the parameters detected by the analytical module groups are not entirely the same, the analysis time for each parameter is also not entirely the same, and the parameters of the water samples to be tested in the sample bottles are also not entirely the same, the time when the analytical module group reaches the idle state again after testing one sample will also be inconsistent. For example, there are several types of analytical module groups A, B, C, ..., N set up at intervals next to the conveyor unit. The parameters that the A-type analytical module group can detect are A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5, and the parameters that the B-type analytical module group can detect are B. 1. The C-class analysis module group can detect parameters C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5. The N-class analysis module group can detect parameters N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5. The analysis times for A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5 in the A-class analysis module group are t1, t2, t3, t4, and t5, respectively. The analysis times for B1, B2, B3, B4, and B5 in the B-class analysis module group are t6, t7, t8, t9, and t5, respectively. 10 The analysis time for C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5 in the C analysis module group are t respectively. 11 t 12 t 13 t 14 t 15 .

[0047] When at least one of the parameters to be detected in a sample vial matches a test parameter in analysis module group A, the analysis time for that sample is any one of t1, t2, t3, t4, or t5 minutes. In other words, if the parameter to be detected in the sample vial is A1, the analysis time is t1 minutes; if the parameters to be detected are both A1 and A2, the analysis time is the longer of t1 and t2. The same applies to analysis modules B, C, ..., N, and will not be elaborated further.

[0048] When the Class A analysis module group completes its testing and enters an idle state, or when the Class A analysis module is about to complete its testing and enters an idle state, if there is no sample bottle matching the Class A analysis module group on the conveying unit 4, the control unit matches the sample bottle corresponding to the Class A analysis module group in the new sample testing buffer, opens the first bottle-blocking device 14, and conveys the sample bottle to the Class A analysis module group. That is, when the water sample parameters to be tested in the Nth sample bottle before the first bottle-blocking device 14 match the test parameters of the Class A analysis module, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to release the first N sample bottles, and not release the (N+1)th sample bottle, to ensure that the Nth sample bottle can be conveyed to the Class A analysis module, and to prevent the number of sample bottles on the conveying unit 4 from becoming too high, thus affecting the smooth conveying of the sample bottles. In another embodiment of the present invention, the sample bottle supply unit 1 further includes an automatic capping device for removing the caps from the sample bottles to be tested, after which the capped sample bottles await conveying. The automatic capping device can be a robotic arm for removing the caps.

[0049] It is understood that the conveying unit 4 includes a circular conveyor belt 41, an automatic baffle 42, a bottle transfer device 43, and a position detection device. Several analysis module groups are spaced apart beside the circular conveyor belt 41. Each analysis module group has an automatic baffle 42, a bottle transfer device 43, and a position detection device at its corresponding position. The automatic baffle 42 is used to block the sample bottles to be tested from continuing to be conveyed on the circular conveyor belt 41. The bottle transfer device 43 is used to move the sample bottles to be tested onto the analysis module group, or to move the sample bottles after sampling onto the circular conveyor belt 41 for continued conveying. The automatic baffle 42, the bottle transfer device 43, and the position detection device are all connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to control the working state of the automatic baffle 42 and the bottle transfer device 43 according to the position information of the analysis module group and the position detection result of the position detection device, so as to push the sample bottles to be tested to the corresponding matching analysis module group. Specifically, the position of each analysis module group is preset, and the position detection device can detect the position information of the sample bottle to be tested. When the control unit determines that the sample bottle to be tested is about to reach the position of its matching analysis module group based on the position information of the sample bottle to be tested, it controls the automatic baffle 42 to act to intercept the sample bottle to be tested, then controls the bottle transfer device 43 to act to move the sample bottle to the matching analysis module group, and then controls the automatic baffle 42 to act to release the interception. The automatic sampling device of the analysis module group extracts water samples from the sample bottle to be tested for detection and analysis, and after the detection and analysis are completed, the analysis results are uploaded to the control unit. The control unit then associates and stores the analysis results with the identifier of the sample bottle to be tested, and controls the bottle transfer device 43 to move the sample bottle to the circular conveyor belt 41 for continued transport. It can be understood that a separate bottle transfer device 43 can also be set on each analysis module group, and the action of moving the sample bottle after sampling to the circular conveyor belt 41 is realized by the bottle transfer device 43 on the analysis module group. For example, Figure 2 As shown, in another embodiment of the present invention, the conveying unit 4 is equipped with a bottle-transfer cylinder 46 and a bottle-blocking cylinder 47 at corresponding positions in each analysis module group. Simultaneously, a bottle-transfer cylinder 46 is also provided on the analysis module group. The bottle-transfer cylinder 46 on the conveying unit 4 is used to push the sample bottle from the annular conveyor belt 41 to the analysis module group. The bottle-blocking cylinder 47 is used to drive the automatic baffle 42 to block the sample bottle. The bottle-transfer cylinder 46 on the analysis module group is used to move the sample bottle after sampling onto the annular conveyor belt 41. In this way, the sample bottles can be automatically and accurately allocated to the analysis module group, and the samples in the sample bottles do not need to be repackaged; they can be directly delivered to the detection station of the analysis module group for sampling and testing, avoiding the impact of sample repackaging on detection efficiency and sample reliability.

[0050] The automatic baffle 42 can be a structure in which the baffle is driven to extend and retract back and forth by a cylinder or an electric cylinder, or a structure in which the baffle is driven to rotate up and down by a motor. The bottle transfer device 43 can be driven by a cylinder or an electric cylinder to push the sample bottle onto the analysis module group, or to pull the sample bottle from the analysis module group back onto the annular conveyor belt 41. The specific structural design of the automatic baffle 42 and the bottle transfer device 43 is not specifically limited here, and those skilled in the art can choose according to their needs. The position detection device is a counter. Each time the sample bottle to be tested passes through an analysis module group, the corresponding counter counts once. The positional order of the multiple analysis module groups is preset, so the position information of the sample bottle to be tested can be identified by counting. After matching the water sample information of the sample bottle to be tested with the analysis module group, the control unit can generate the path value of the sample bottle. Each time the sample bottle passes through an analysis module group, the corresponding counter counts the sample bottle once. When the accumulated count value matches the path value, it means that the sample bottle has moved to the position of the matched analysis module group. Then, the control unit controls the automatic baffle 42 to intercept it and controls the bottle transfer device 43 to move the sample bottle to the matched analysis module group. Of course, in another embodiment of the present invention, the position detection device can also be a proximity switch. That is, each time the sample bottle passes through an analysis module group, the control unit can receive a feedback signal from the proximity switch. The current position information of the sample bottle can be identified based on the number of feedback signals received.

[0051] In addition, the conveying unit 4 is equipped with an automatic baffle 42, a bottle transfer device 43, and a second water sample information reading device 45 at the docking position with the sample bottle recycling unit 3. The second water sample information reading device 45 is connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to identify whether the sample bottle has completed water quality testing based on the water sample information read by the second water sample information reading device 45, and to control the working state of the automatic baffle 42 and the bottle transfer device 43 according to the identification result. If it is identified that the sample bottle has completed water quality testing, the control unit controls the automatic baffle 42 to intercept the sample bottle and controls the bottle transfer device 43 to move the sample bottle to the sample bottle recycling unit 3; if it is identified that the sample bottle has not completed water quality testing, the control unit does not issue a control signal, the automatic baffle 42 and the bottle transfer device 43 do not operate, and the sample bottle continues to be conveyed on the circular conveyor belt 41. It is understood that if the first water sample information reading device 13 and / or the second water sample information reading device 45 adopts an RFID card reader, then the identification on the sample bottle is an RFID tag; or if the first water sample information reading device 13 and / or the second water sample information reading device 45 adopts a scanning device, then the identification on the sample bottle is a barcode or a QR code.

[0052] Preferably, the conveying unit 4 further includes a second bottle-blocking device 44 disposed on the annular conveyor belt 41. The second bottle-blocking device 44 is located between the sample bottle supply unit 1 and the sample bottle recovery unit 3, and is used to prevent the remaining sample bottles to be tested after the initial water sample testing from continuing to be conveyed on the annular conveyor belt 41, thereby forming a secondary testing buffer. The second bottle-blocking device 44 is connected to the control unit. The second bottle-blocking device 44 is normally in the closed state, thereby intercepting sample bottles that have not completed testing in the secondary testing buffer. On the one hand, at this time, almost all analysis module groups are in the testing process, and there is no situation where analysis module groups are idle. By using the second bottle-blocking device 44 in conjunction with the first bottle-blocking device 14 to intercept, the number of sample bottles conveyed on the annular conveyor belt 41 can be effectively controlled. On the other hand, the length of the annular conveyor belt 41 is limited, and the number of sample bottles it can hold is limited. When the capacity of the annular conveyor belt 41 reaches the upper limit, the control unit controls both the first bottle-blocking device 14 and the second bottle-blocking device 44 to stop releasing, which facilitates the control of the transport flow. On the other hand, since different analysis module groups have different detection times for water quality parameters, some analysis module groups may be idle. In this case, the second bottle-blocking device 44, in conjunction with the first bottle-blocking device 14, intercepts the idle sample bottles, allowing for the timely replenishment of sample bottles according to the detection items of the idle analysis module groups. This improves the utilization rate of the analysis module groups and enhances the accuracy and reliability of automated allocation. By setting up "two detection buffers" and combining them with a scheduling algorithm, precise water sample delivery is achieved, thereby reducing idle sample bottles and / or analysis module groups, lowering the load on the delivery unit and the control unit, and ultimately improving the overall detection efficiency of the system.

[0053] Preferably, the sample bottle recycling unit 3 also includes an automatic capping device connected to the control unit. When a sample bottle that has completed water quality testing needs to be retained for preservation, the control unit controls the automatic capping device to cap the sample bottle.

[0054] In another embodiment of the present invention, the fully automated water quality testing laboratory further includes an automatic cleaning unit connected to the control unit. When the sample bottles used for water quality testing no longer need to be stored, they are transported to the automatic cleaning unit for cleaning and drying, thereby enabling the recycling of the sample bottles.

[0055] It is understood that the control unit is also used to acquire the working status information of each analysis module group, so as to identify which analysis module groups are in the process of detection and which analysis module groups are idle. When at least one analysis module group is idle, the control unit selects the matching sample bottle to be tested from the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer according to the detection items of the idle analysis module group, and controls the first bottle blocking device 14 or the second bottle blocking device 44 to open accordingly.

[0056] Preferably, based on the first-in-first-out principle, the control unit preferentially selects matching sample bottles to be tested from the secondary detection buffer.

[0057] Specifically, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to open. After the first batch of sample bottles to be tested are sent onto the conveying unit 4, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to close and controls the conveying unit 4 to transport multiple sample bottles to be tested to the corresponding matching analysis module groups. At this time, if at least one analysis module group is idle during the initial sample loading and testing process, the control unit selects a sample bottle that matches the idle analysis module group from the new sample testing buffer and controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to open until the matching sample bottle is sent onto the conveying unit 4. Of course, in order to ensure that none of the analysis module groups are idle at the beginning, the control unit can also control the first bottle-blocking device 14 to remain open during the initial sample loading according to the testing items of all analysis module groups. The first water sample information reading device 13 reads the water sample information of each sample bottle to be tested until it is identified that multiple sample bottles to be tested sent to the conveying unit 4 can meet the matching requirements of each analysis module group. At this point, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device 14 to close. At this time, each analysis module group is in the detection state and there will be no idle time. Any extra sample vials to be tested are intercepted at the second bottle-blocking device 44 and await release. In this way, the samples can be processed in a "first-in, first-out" manner, that is, the samples that enter the transfer unit first have a higher detection priority than the samples that enter the transfer unit later, so that the samples that enter first can be detected and taken offline for recycling first.

[0058] During the initial testing process, due to the varying testing times of different analysis module groups, some analysis module groups may complete their testing tasks first, resulting in some analysis module groups being idle. In this case, the control unit needs to select a sample bottle from the new sample testing buffer or secondary testing buffer that matches the idle analysis module group, and then release it. Based on the first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle, the control unit prioritizes screening from the secondary testing buffer. If a matching sample bottle exists in the secondary testing buffer, the control unit opens the second bottle-blocking device 44 until the sample bottle passes through it, and then closes the second bottle-blocking device 44. If no matching sample bottle exists in the secondary testing buffer, the control unit selects a matching sample bottle from the new sample testing buffer and opens the first bottle-blocking device 14 until the sample bottle passes through it, and then closes the first bottle-blocking device 14. It is understandable that when multiple analysis module groups are idle, the control unit still prioritizes selecting matching sample vials from the secondary detection buffer. As long as there is at least one matching sample vial in the secondary detection buffer, the control unit controls the second bottle-blocking device 44 to open until all matching sample vials in the secondary detection buffer have passed through the second bottle-blocking device 44, and then controls the second bottle-blocking device 44 to close. At this time, if there are still analysis module groups idle, the control unit will select matching sample vials from the new sample detection buffer, then control the first bottle-blocking device 14 to open, send the matching sample vials onto the conveying unit 4, and then control the first bottle-blocking device 14 to close.

[0059] It is understood that this invention acquires the working status and test parameter information of the analysis module group and identifies the water sample information of each sample bottle to be tested. Once the analysis module group is idle, it can automatically and intelligently replenish the sample bottles by matching the test parameter information of the analysis module group with the water sample information of the sample bottles to be tested, thereby improving the accuracy of automatic sample replenishment and increasing the utilization rate of the analysis module group.

[0060] It is understandable that, as a variation, a water sample identifier, such as a water sample information reading device, can be set at each analysis module group to read the water sample information of the sample bottle about to pass through each analysis module group. The water sample identifier is connected to a control unit. When the control unit determines that the water sample identifier reads a test parameter in the sample bottle that matches the analysis module group where the water sample identifier is located, the control unit controls the automatic baffle 42 corresponding to that analysis module group to lower and controls the corresponding bottle-moving device 43 to move the sample bottle onto that analysis module group. In this embodiment, a position detection device may be omitted.

[0061] Preferably, the fully automated water quality testing laboratory also includes an alarm unit connected to the control unit. The control unit is further configured to issue an alarm when no matching sample bottle is found in either the new sample testing buffer or the secondary testing buffer. This alerts staff to manually select a matching sample bottle from the sample bottle storage area 11 and place it onto the circular conveyor belt 41. The alarm unit may issue alerts via, but is not limited to, audible alarms, visual alarms, vibration alarms, SMS alarms, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Preferably, the fully automated water quality testing laboratory also includes a sensing device connected to the control unit for detecting whether the sample bottle has tipped over. The control unit is also used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the sensing device detects that the sample bottle has tipped over. After receiving the alarm, staff manually clean up the tipped and leaking sample bottles on the circular conveyor belt 41. The sensing device can be a height detection device to detect the height of the sample bottle. The control unit can determine whether the sample bottle has tipped over based on the height detected by the sensing device; if the height of the sample bottle is below a threshold, it means that the sample bottle has tipped over. Alternatively, the sensing device can also be a posture recognition module, which uses an onboard camera and image processing chip to identify the current posture of the sample bottle. Once the sample bottle is identified as being in a horizontal position, it is determined that the sample bottle has tipped over, and an alarm is issued.

[0063] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, another embodiment of the present invention also provides an automated water sample transport method, preferably employing a fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described above, specifically including the following:

[0064] Step S1: After receiving the water sample and registering the water sample information of the sample bottle to be tested, place the sample bottle to be tested in the sample bottle supply unit 1 for temporary storage.

[0065] Step S2: Transport the sample vial to be tested to the conveying unit 4;

[0066] Step S3: The sample bottle to be tested is transported to the corresponding analysis module group through the transfer unit 4 for water quality testing and analysis;

[0067] Step S4: The sample vials that have completed testing are transported to the sample vial recycling unit 3 via the transfer unit 4.

[0068] It is understood that the automated water sample delivery method of this embodiment, after completing the registration of water sample information for the sample bottle to be tested, controls the sample bottle supply unit 1 to transfer the sample bottle to be tested to the conveying unit 4 through the control unit. Then, according to the water sample information of the sample bottle to be tested, the conveying unit 4 is controlled to transport the sample bottle to the corresponding analysis module group. Finally, the conveying unit 4 is controlled to transport the sample bottle that has completed the test to the sample bottle recycling unit 3 for recycling. The entire process realizes automated matching and automated delivery of test items without human intervention, with a high degree of automation. In addition, it reduces the number of times the analysis equipment is idle, improves the utilization efficiency of the analysis equipment, and thus improves the efficiency of water quality testing.

[0069] It is understood that step S1 also includes the following:

[0070] Remove the cap from the sample vial to be tested.

[0071] It is understood that step S4 also includes the following:

[0072] Cap the sample vials that need to be preserved, and clean and dry the sample vials that do not need to be preserved.

[0073] It is understood that the automated water sample delivery method also includes the following:

[0074] Step S5: Obtain the working status information of each analysis module group. When at least one analysis module group is idle, select the matching sample bottle to be tested from the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer according to the detection items of the idle analysis module group and send it to the transfer unit 4, and then send it to the corresponding idle analysis module group.

[0075] Based on the first-in, first-out principle, matching sample bottles to be tested are selected first from the secondary detection buffer.

[0076] It is understood that step S5 also includes the following:

[0077] An alarm will be issued if no matching sample vials are found in either the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer.

[0078] It is understood that the automated water sample delivery method also includes the following:

[0079] Step S6: Detect whether the sample bottle has tipped over, and issue an alarm when tipping over is detected.

[0080] It is understood that the specific implementation of each step in the automated conveying method of this embodiment has been described in detail in the fully automated water quality testing laboratory of the above embodiment, so it will not be repeated here.

[0081] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fully automated water quality testing laboratory, characterized in that, include: The sample bottle supply unit (1) is used to temporarily store the sample bottle to be tested after registering the water sample information, and to transport the sample bottle to be tested to the transmission unit (4). The analysis unit (2) includes several analysis module groups, which are used to perform water quality testing and analysis on the sample bottles to be tested; Sample bottle recovery unit (3) is used to recover sample bottles that have been tested; The conveying unit (4) is used to convey the sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding analysis module group and to convey the sample bottle that has been tested to the sample bottle recovery unit (3). The control unit is connected to the sample bottle supply unit (1), analysis unit (2), sample bottle recovery unit (3) and transmission unit (4) respectively, and is used to control the working status of each unit so as to realize the full-process automated control of water sample detection. The sample bottle supply unit (1) includes a sample bottle storage area (11), a transport device (12), and a first water sample information reading device (13). The sample bottle storage area (11) is used to temporarily store the sample bottles that have been registered. The transport device (12) is used to transport the sample bottles in the sample bottle storage area (11) to the conveying unit (4). The first water sample information reading device (13) is set on the transport path of the transport device (12) and is used to read the water sample information of the transported sample bottles. A first bottle-blocking device (14) is also provided at the docking position of the transport device (12) and the conveying unit (4). A new sample detection buffer is formed between the first bottle-blocking device (14) and the starting position of the transport device (12). The device (13) and the first bottle-blocking device (14) are both connected to the control unit. The control unit is used to match the water sample information of at least one sample bottle read by the first water sample information reading device (13) with the detection items of each analysis module group when at least one analysis module group is idle and there is no matching sample bottle on the transmission unit (4). When the water sample information of the Nth sample bottle to be tested is successfully matched with at least one idle analysis module group, the control unit controls the first bottle-blocking device (14) to open, and transports the N sample bottles to be tested to the transmission unit (4), and controls the transmission unit (4) to transport the Nth sample bottle to be tested to the matching analysis module group. The parameters detected by the analysis module groups are not the same, the analysis time of each parameter is not the same, and the water sample parameters to be tested in the sample bottles are not the same.

2. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying unit (4) includes a ring conveyor belt (41), an automatic baffle (42), a bottle transfer device (43), and a position detection device. Several analysis module groups are spaced apart next to the ring conveyor belt (41). Each analysis module group is equipped with an automatic baffle (42), a bottle transfer device (43), and a position detection device. The automatic baffle (42), the bottle transfer device (43), and the position detection device are all connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to control the working state of the automatic baffle (42) and the bottle transfer device (43) according to the position information of the analysis module group and the position detection result of the position detection device, so as to push the water sample bottle to be tested to the corresponding matching analysis module group.

3. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The conveying unit (4) is provided with an automatic baffle (42), a bottle transfer device (43), and a second water sample information reading device (45) at the position where it docks with the sample bottle recovery unit (3). The second water sample information reading device (45) is connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to identify whether the sample bottle has completed water quality testing based on the water sample information read by the second water sample information reading device (45), and to control the working status of the automatic baffle (42) and the bottle transfer device (43) based on the identification result.

4. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The conveying unit (4) further includes a second bottle-blocking device (44) disposed on the annular conveyor belt (41). The second bottle-blocking device (44) is located between the sample bottle supply unit (1) and the sample bottle recycling unit (3) and is used to prevent the remaining sample bottles to be tested after the initial water sample test from continuing to be conveyed on the annular conveyor belt (41) to form a secondary test buffer. The second bottle-blocking device (44) is connected to the control unit.

5. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit is also used to acquire the working status of each analysis module group, and when at least one analysis module group is idle, to select a matching sample bottle to be tested from the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer according to the detection items of the idle analysis module group, and to control the first bottle blocking device (14) or the second bottle blocking device (44) to open accordingly.

6. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit preferentially selects matching sample vials to be tested from the secondary detection buffer.

7. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes an alarm unit connected to the control unit, which is further used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm when no matching sample bottle is found in either the new sample detection buffer or the secondary detection buffer.

8. The fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a sensing device connected to the control unit for detecting whether the sample bottle has tipped over, and the control unit is also used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the sensing device detects that the sample bottle has tipped over.

9. An automated method for transporting water samples, applicable to a fully automated water quality testing laboratory as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Includes the following: After receiving the water sample and registering the water sample information in the sample bottle to be tested, the sample bottle to be tested is placed in the sample bottle supply unit (1) for temporary storage. The sample vial to be tested is transported to the transfer unit (4); The sample bottle to be tested is transported to the corresponding analysis module group through the transfer unit (4) for water quality detection and analysis; The sample bottles that have completed testing are transported to the sample bottle recycling unit (3) via the transfer unit (4).

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