Laboratory reagent cabinet and intelligent reagent management method
The laboratory reagent cabinet, with its integrated control and modular storage, combined with electronic tags and linkage motion mechanisms, solves the problems of chaotic storage and low retrieval efficiency in laboratory reagent management, achieving automated and standardized management of reagents and ensuring the accuracy and safety of medicines.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GONGYI EMERGING FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS IND RESEARCH INSTITUTE
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
Traditional laboratory reagent management models result in chaotic drug storage, irregular management, low retrieval efficiency, and an inability to accurately trace the entire life cycle of reagents, posing safety hazards.
Design a laboratory reagent cabinet that integrates a control terminal, display module, storage module, drug information acquisition and verification module, and information recognition module. It achieves automated acquisition and management of reagent information through devices such as electronic tags, barcode scanners, and weighing platforms. Combined with modular storage units and linkage motion mechanisms, it provides precise location guidance and operation instructions.
It has enabled the automated and standardized classification and management of laboratory reagents, improved the efficiency of drug storage and retrieval, ensured the accuracy and traceability of drug management, avoided management errors such as misplacement, and improved the safety of laboratory operations.
Smart Images

Figure CN121903520A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of pharmaceutical storage cabinet technology, specifically to a laboratory reagent cabinet and a smart reagent management method. Background Technology
[0002] With the deepening of scientific research and the continuous increase in the frequency of experiments, laboratory reagents are becoming increasingly diverse, exhibiting significant differences in functional attributes, usage frequency, and inventory requirements, with usage patterns changing dynamically. Different experiments have vastly different requirements for reagent usage frequency and inventory levels, and the management of reagent expiration dates and traceability are directly related to the accuracy of experimental results and the operational safety of the laboratory.
[0003] However, traditional reagent management mainly relies on manual zoning, paper labels, and logbooks to record retrieval information. This results in insufficient management standardization and easily leads to the mixed storage of reagents of different specifications and states, causing chaotic storage order. Furthermore, point-to-point retrieval and return of reagents largely depend on manual registration by laboratory personnel, which is prone to omissions, errors, and proxy registration. This makes it impossible to accurately trace the entire life cycle of reagents, posing safety risks. In addition, traditional methods require a lot of manpower and time in the drug retrieval process, resulting in low efficiency and making it difficult to meet the needs of efficient and precise scientific research management.
[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to study a laboratory reagent cabinet and a smart reagent management method. Summary of the Invention
[0005] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a laboratory reagent cabinet and a smart reagent management method, which effectively solves the problems of chaotic storage, non-standard management, and incomplete record keeping of existing laboratory reagents. It aims to automate the reagent storage and retrieval process by reducing manual intervention, thereby improving management efficiency, ensuring experimental safety, and achieving accurate traceability and standardized storage of reagents throughout their entire life cycle.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this invention is: a laboratory reagent cabinet, comprising a control terminal, a display module, a storage module, a reagent information collection and verification module, and an information identification module; the reagent information collection and verification module is signal-connected to the control terminal and is used to collect basic information, external dimensions, and real-time weight of the reagents when they are placed in the cabinet, and transmit the collected data to the control terminal to write the reagent information to an electronic tag on the bottom of the reagent bottle, and to collect the real-time weight and electronic tag information of the reagent bottle when it is actually used or returned, for information consistency verification when the reagent is used; the storage module consists of multiple storage units, each storage unit having an independent The system includes storage compartments, each equipped with trays for reagent bottles of different sizes, and a motion mechanism for controlling the trays to move the reagent bottles in and out of the compartments. This motion mechanism is connected to a control terminal. An information identification module, also connected to the control terminal, identifies the tray size in each compartment and collects the position and appearance information of the reagent bottles during storage, retrieval, or return, feeding this information back to the control terminal. A display module, also connected to the control terminal, displays the basic information, inventory status, expiration date, and operating instructions of the reagents in each storage unit in real time. The control terminal receives and processes information transmitted from each module and issues control commands to each module.
[0007] Furthermore, the drug information collection and verification module includes a barcode scanner, a weighing platform, and an electronic tag reader. The barcode scanner is used to scan the original information on the reagent bottle packaging. The weighing platform is used to collect the initial weight of the reagent bottle upon entry into the warehouse and the real-time weight when it is picked up and returned. An electronic tag is provided at the bottom of the reagent bottle. The reader is set on the weighing platform and is used to write or read the information in the electronic tag at the bottom of the reagent bottle.
[0008] Furthermore, the information recognition module includes a camera module and indicator lights. The camera module is installed on the inside of the cabinet door of each compartment, and the indicator lights are fixed in the corresponding cells of each reagent bottle in the tray. Each indicator light is connected to the control terminal signal and is used to provide different colored light guidance for the storage, retrieval or return of reagent bottles.
[0009] Furthermore, the motion mechanism includes a guide drive assembly and a flipping assembly. The flipping assembly is used to control the inward and outward folding and opening of the compartment door, and the guide drive assembly is used to drive the tray and reagent bottle inside the compartment to slide and extend along the depth direction of the compartment.
[0010] Furthermore, the guiding drive assembly includes a tray frame, a guide rail, a synchronous belt, a synchronous pulley, and a motor. The guide rail is symmetrically fixed on the left and right side walls of the compartment. The tray frame is adapted to slide on the guide rail. A synchronous pulley is provided below the tray frame, and a synchronous belt is wound around the synchronous pulley. The other end of the synchronous belt extends to the rear side of the compartment and is connected to the synchronous pulley on the motor output shaft. The tray frame and the synchronous belt are fixed together by a connector. The motor is fixed on the rear side wall of the compartment and is signal-connected to the control terminal to drive the synchronous belt to rotate so as to control the tray frame to extend and retract along the guide rail through the connector. The tray is placed on the tray frame, and the tray is provided with a positioning slot adapted to the size of the reagent bottle.
[0011] Furthermore, the compartment is also equipped with photoelectric sensors, which are spaced apart along the movement direction of the pallet frame. A light-blocking plate adapted to the photoelectric sensors is fixed at the bottom of the pallet frame, and the photoelectric sensors are signal-connected to the control terminal. They are used to trigger the photoelectric sensors at the corresponding positions through the light-blocking plate and send a feedback signal to the control terminal to limit the extension and retraction position of the pallet frame.
[0012] Furthermore, the flipping assembly includes a hinge and a support rod. One end of the hinge is hinged to the top wall of the compartment, and the other end is hinged to the compartment door. The support rod is hinged between the pallet frame and the door. When the pallet frame extends out of the compartment, the support rod pushes the door to flip upward around the hinge and open. When the pallet frame is retracted into the compartment, the support rod pulls the door to flip downward around the hinge and close.
[0013] Furthermore, the display module includes an industrial control computer and an advertising screen. The industrial control computer is integrated into the operation panel of the control terminal and is used to display the operation interface, reagent information and operation prompts. The advertising screen is used to rotate all reagent information and special drug warning information.
[0014] This invention also includes a smart management method for laboratory reagents, comprising the following steps: (1) Drug warehousing After the operator attaches the pre-made electronic tag to the bottom of the reagent bottle, the reagent bottle is placed on the weighing platform of the drug information collection and verification module to collect the basic information and initial weight on the reagent bottle packaging, and all collected data is transmitted synchronously to the control terminal. The control terminal will write the full information of the above reagents into the electronic tag through the electronic tag reader, and automatically match or manually select the appropriate storage unit based on the reagent specifications and inventory status. Then, the control terminal drives the motion mechanism of the target storage unit to deliver the medicine storage tray; based on the light indication position of the information recognition module, the reagent bottle is placed in the tray, and the tray image is captured again and fed back. After the control terminal verifies the data, it drives the motion mechanism to retrieve the tray and close the cabinet door, and records the storage data. (2) Drug collection and return After the verified operator selects the target reagent, the control terminal drives the corresponding storage unit to open the cabinet door and send out the medicine storage tray. After the operator takes the reagent bottle, the information recognition module takes a picture to identify the empty position information, illuminates the light to guide the operator, and sends feedback to the control terminal. The operator places the removed reagent bottle on the weighing platform. The medicine information collection and verification module confirms the medicine information and weighs and records the weight. After the verification is passed, the control terminal records the data taken out, allows the reagent to be taken out, and the medicine storage tray is recycled and the cabinet door is closed. Upon return, the operator selects the reagent to be returned and places it on the weighing platform. The drug information collection and verification module confirms the drug information and records the weighing data upon return. The control terminal drives the corresponding storage unit to send out the storage tray and put the reagent back in its original position. At the same time, the information recognition module collects images and provides feedback. After the control terminal verifies the data, it drives the motion mechanism to retrieve the tray and close the cabinet door, updating the inventory data. (3) Drugs being issued For medicines that need to be removed from the system, the control terminal drives the motion mechanism of the corresponding storage unit to send out the pallet. The operator takes the target reagent and places it on the weighing platform. The medicine information collection and verification module reads the medicine information and real-time weight. The control terminal compares and verifies the collected information with the target outbound reagent information. After the verification is passed, the medicine is released from the warehouse. The control terminal automatically records the outbound reagent information and generates an outbound data table. After the medicine is released from the warehouse, the pallet is retrieved and the warehouse door is closed.
[0015] Furthermore, it also includes a pallet placement and replacement process, wherein when placing the pallet: the drug information collection and verification module determines the corresponding specifications of the pallet based on the appearance and size of the reagent bottle, and places the drug pallets of each specifications into the drug storage compartments of different heights based on the height of the reagent bottle; the information identification module identifies the pallet specifications and transmits them to the control terminal for data recording and storage, and controls the closing of the cabinet door after placement is completed; When a pallet needs to be replaced: First, all reagent bottles in the existing pallet are removed from the warehouse or temporarily stored in another warehouse. The control terminal drives the storage unit where the pallet to be replaced is located to open the cabinet door and send out the pallet. The operator takes out the old pallet and puts it into the new pallet. The information identification module identifies the new pallet and transmits the information to the control terminal for storage. Finally, the medicines taken out from the warehouse can be put back into the warehouse.
[0016] The beneficial effects of the above technical solution are as follows: The laboratory reagent cabinet and intelligent reagent management method provided by the present invention overcome the technical defects of existing laboratory drug storage processes, such as chaotic storage, non-standard management, and incomplete record keeping. By constructing a reagent cabinet structure that combines integrated control and modular storage, it realizes automated and standardized classification management of laboratory drugs, while improving drug storage and retrieval efficiency and ensuring the accuracy and traceability of drug management.
[0017] This invention integrates a barcode scanner, a weighing platform, and an electronic tag reader to achieve collaborative operation of drug information reading, weight collection, and consistency verification. Combined with the electronic tag on the bottom of the reagent bottle, it enables accurate association of drug information, effectively confirming the correctness of drug retrieval, avoiding management errors such as misplacement, and improving the standardization of management. The storage unit adopts a layered and modular design to adapt to different sized trays and reagent bottles, enabling drugs to be stored according to specifications and categories. With the help of indicator lights, it accurately guides the storage location, solving the problem of chaotic storage from both physical layout and operational guidance perspectives.
[0018] This invention equips each compartment with a linked motion mechanism, integrating guide drive components and flipping components to achieve synchronous control of pallet extension and cabinet door opening and closing. Multi-color indicator lights are installed in the pallet positioning slots, and combined with photoelectric sensors and light-blocking plates, pallet extension and positioning are achieved. Different lighting states of the indicator lights provide precise guidance for storage, retrieval, and return. A camera module inside the cabinet door enables visual recording of the operation process. There is no need for manual searching of each compartment or manual opening and closing of cabinet doors; the multi-color indicator lights directly locate the target medicine, significantly shortening storage and retrieval time and improving efficiency. This comprehensively realizes automated, standardized, and efficient management of laboratory medicines. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a front view structural diagram of the laboratory reagent cabinet of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the laboratory reagent cabinet of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the implementation structure of the weighing platform of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of different storage units of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the storage compartment of the present invention when it is in the open state; Figure 6 This is a front view of the storage compartment of the present invention when it is in the open state; Figure 7 for Figure 4 Enlarged structural diagram at point A; Figure 8 This is a side view of the storage unit structure of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a rear view structural diagram of the main body of the medicine cabinet of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the connection principle of the modular system of the present invention.
[0020] Attached reference numerals: 1-Control cabinet, 2-Scanner, 3-Weighing platform, 4-Industrial computer, 5-Advertising screen, 6-Medicine cabinet body, 7-Support leg, 8-Fuma wheel, 9-Serial number plate, 10-Handle, 11-Storage compartment, 12-Flip-down door, 13-Reagent bottle, 14-Electronic tag, 15-Cabinet door, 16-Camera module, 17-Hinge, 18-Support rod, 19-Tray rack, 20-Tray, 21-Indicator light, 22-Guide rail, 23-Slide, 24-Synchronous belt, 25-Photoelectric sensor, 26-Light shield, 27-Drag chain, 28-Connector, 29-Motor, 30-Card reader, 31-Perforated board, 32-Exhaust fan, 33-Back panel. Detailed Implementation
[0021] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments: Example 1: This example aims to provide a laboratory reagent cabinet to solve the problems of chaotic storage, non-standard management, and incomplete record keeping of existing laboratory medicines, thereby effectively avoiding chaotic drug management, improving drug storage and retrieval efficiency, and realizing automated and standardized classification management of laboratory medicines.
[0022] like Figure 1-10 As shown, a laboratory reagent cabinet includes a control cabinet 1 on the left and a medicine cabinet body 6 on the right. The bottom of the control cabinet 1 is equipped with casters 8, and the bottom of the medicine cabinet body 6 is equipped with support legs 7. The control cabinet 1 on the left integrates a control terminal, a display module, a drug information collection and verification module, etc., which are connected to the control terminal. The display module includes an industrial control computer 4 located in the middle of the control cabinet 1 and an advertising screen 5 located above the industrial control computer 4. The industrial control computer 4 is integrated into the operation panel of the control terminal and is used for operation interface, reagent information, and operation prompts. The advertising screen 5 serves as a drug information display screen, which can rotate all drug information stored in the medicine cabinet body 6, and can also display warning information for expired or other special drugs. A face and fingerprint recognition device is also provided on the right side of the industrial control computer 4 to verify the identity information of the operator.
[0023] The drug information collection and verification module includes a barcode scanner 2, a weighing platform 3, and an electronic tag reader 30. An operating platform is provided on the control cabinet 1 below the industrial computer 4. The weighing platform 3 is installed within the operating platform to collect the initial weight of the reagent bottles 13 upon entry into the warehouse and the real-time weight during retrieval and return. The barcode scanner is positioned beside the weighing platform 3 and faces it, used to scan the original information of the reagent bottle 13 packaging placed on the weighing platform 3. An electronic tag reader 30 is also installed on the weighing platform 3 to read and write information from the electronic tags 14 on the bottom of the reagent bottles 13.
[0024] like Figure 3 As shown, an electronic tag 14 is provided at the bottom of the reagent bottle 13. After the reagent bottle 13 is placed on the weighing platform 3, the real-time weight of the reagent bottle 13 can be obtained, and the card reader 30 can scan the drug information inside the reagent bottle 13. In one embodiment, the electronic tag reader can be an RFID reader. The electronic tag 14 at the bottom of the reagent bottle 13 records information such as drug code, name, expiration date, and batch number. After the drug is taken out, the removed reagent bottle 13 is placed on the weighing platform 3. The card reader 30 can automatically identify and confirm the drug information by reading the electronic tag 14 at the bottom of the reagent bottle 13, and simultaneously weigh and record the weight. This consistency check can confirm whether the taken out drug is correct, and also avoids drug management chaos.
[0025] like Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the storage module and information recognition module are located on the right side of the medicine cabinet body 6. The storage module consists of multiple storage units, each of which is an independent storage compartment 11. Specifically, in this embodiment, the medicine cabinet body 6 is assembled from a left side panel, a right side panel, a back panel 33, a base, and a top cover to form a hollow cuboid structure. A central column is fixed vertically in the middle of the medicine cabinet body 6, which divides the internal space into two chambers of the same volume. The two chambers are divided by horizontal partitions evenly arranged in the vertical direction, so that the two chambers are divided from top to bottom to form multiple separate storage compartments 11. The two chambers are symmetrically arranged along the central column.
[0026] like Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the main body of the medicine cabinet includes 14 independent medicine storage units, each corresponding to a storage compartment. Each storage compartment holds different types of trays according to its height, corresponding to the storage of medicines of different specifications. Each storage compartment is numbered. In one implementation, the tray specifications and storage compartment categories are shown in the table below: Table 1 Pallet Specifications Pallet number Single cell size (mm) Number of compartments per disk Number of medicine bottles that can be held 1 56×58 42 42 2 67×67 30 30 3 85×85 20 20 4 110×115 12 12 5 110×175 8 8 6 175×232 4 4 Table 2 Storage Compartment Specifications (Total number of compartments: 14) Floor height (mm) Number of storage compartments (units) Recommended maximum height for medicine bottles (mm) Tray number can be placed Preferred Pallet Number 150 6 120 1, 2, 3 1, 2 200 2 170 1, 2, 3, 4 3, 4 300 4 270 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 3, 4, 5 500 2 400 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 5, 6 Furthermore, each storage compartment 11 is equipped with a separate cabinet door 15, with a handle on the outside. Each storage compartment 11 also has an internal mechanism for controlling the tray 20 to move the reagent bottles 13 in and out of the compartment. This mechanism is connected to a control terminal. Figure 4-8 As shown, the motion mechanism in this embodiment includes a guide drive assembly and a flip assembly. The flip assembly is used to control the inward and outward folding and opening of the compartment door 15, and the guide drive assembly is used to drive the tray 20 and reagent bottle 13 inside the compartment to slide along the depth direction of the compartment.
[0027] In the specific implementation structure, taking the internal structure of one of the storage compartments 11 as an example, the guide drive assembly includes a pallet frame 19, a guide rail 22, a synchronous belt 24, and a motor 29. The guide rail 22 is symmetrically fixed on the left and right side walls of the compartment. Slide seats 23 are fixed on the left and right sides of the pallet frame 19, allowing the pallet frame 19 to be adapted and slidably installed on the guide rail 22. Through the adapted and guiding cooperation between the slide seats 23 and the guide rail 22, the pallet frame 19 can reciprocate and extend along the guide rail 22. An adjustment frame is fixed at the bottom of the compartment near the cabinet door 15. A driven synchronous wheel is rotatably installed on the adjustment frame, and a synchronous belt 24 is wound on the synchronous wheel. A motor 29 is fixedly installed on the rear side of the compartment via a motor 29 bracket. A driving synchronous wheel is fixedly mounted on the output shaft of the motor 29. The other end of the synchronous belt 24 is connected to the driving synchronous wheel to form a complete transmission path.
[0028] Furthermore, a connector 28 is fixed at the bottom of the tray 20. The connector 28 is fastened to one side of the synchronous belt 24, and the laying direction of the synchronous belt 24 is parallel to the extension direction of the guide rail 22. Thus, when the control terminal drives the motor 29 to work, the output shaft of the motor 29 drives the active synchronous wheel to rotate, thereby causing the synchronous belt 24 to rotate in a preset direction. Therefore, the transmission of the synchronous belt 24 can drive the tray frame 19 to reciprocate and extend along the guide rail 22 through the connector 28. In addition, the tray frame 19 has a groove in the middle, and the tray 20 is fitted into the groove. The tray 20 has a positioning slot that matches the size of the reagent bottle. Each positioning slot is equipped with an indicator light 21, which is connected to the control terminal signal. Thus, the different colors of the lights can provide precise operation guidance for the reagent bottle 13 to be placed in storage, retrieved, and returned.
[0029] In addition, photoelectric sensors 25 are installed in storage compartment 11 (the structure and principle of photoelectric sensors are existing technology and will not be described in detail here). Two photoelectric sensors 25 are spaced apart along the front-to-back direction, respectively near the depth of the compartment and the cabinet door 15, and the position axes of the two photoelectric sensors 25 are parallel to the extension direction of the guide rail 22. Correspondingly, a light-blocking plate adapted to the photoelectric sensors 25 is fixed at the bottom of the pallet rack 19, and the photoelectric sensors 25 are connected to the control terminal signal. When the light-blocking plate triggers the photoelectric sensors 25 at the corresponding positions, it sends a feedback signal to the control terminal to control the start and stop of the motor 29, thereby positioning and limiting the extension and retraction stop position of the pallet rack 19, specifying whether it extends out of the compartment or is retracted into the compartment. Male and female magnetic suction heads are respectively provided on the top of the pallet rack 19 and the bottom of the pallet 20, which are connected to the control terminal signal to ensure the circuit path of the indicator light 21 inside the pallet 20. A drag chain 27 is also provided below the magnetic suction head for easy wiring.
[0030] In this embodiment, the indicator lights include three colors: yellow, green, and red. Each positioning slot in the tray contains a reagent bottle, and a corresponding indicator light is installed. The different colors of the indicator lights have the following meanings: Where should medicines be stored when the yellow light flashes? Yellow light indicates insufficient drug inventory When the green light flashes, the medicine is located at the corresponding position. Where should medicines be stored when returned with the green light on? A flashing red light indicates the item was stored in the wrong location when entering or returning it to its original storage location. A red light indicating expired medicine is constantly on. The light is off and no medicine is stored in the cell, or the medicine is stored correctly in the cell. like Figure 5 and 6 As shown, when the control terminal drives the pallet rack 19 to extend outward, the synchronous belt 24 actuates the flipping component inside the compartment, thereby opening the cabinet door 15 of the compartment. In this embodiment, the flipping component includes hinges 17 and support rods 18 arranged symmetrically. The cabinet door 15 is installed at the opening end of the compartment through the hinges 17, that is, one end of the hinges 17 is hinged to the top wall of the compartment, and the other end is hinged to the position above the cabinet door 15. When the cabinet door 15 is closed, the hinges 17 are in a folded and retracted state. When the cabinet door 15 is opened, the hinges 17 unfold and the cabinet door 15 flips from the inside to the outside to the position above the pallet 20, forming an open shape. Fixing members are provided on the inner side wall of the cabinet door 15 (the fixing members are located below the connection of the hinge 17). The support rod 18 is inclinedly arranged above the side of the pallet frame 19, and one end of the support rod 18 is hinged to the fixing member on the inner wall of the cabinet door 15, and the other end is hinged to the top of the pallet frame 19. The hinge structure in this embodiment is the prior art and will not be described in detail here.
[0031] Therefore, when the synchronous belt 24 works and drives the tray frame 19 to extend outward, the support rod 18 can simultaneously push the cabinet door 15 to swing outward, thereby stretching and unfolding the hinge 17 until the light-blocking plate 26 at the bottom of the tray frame 19 moves from back to front to trigger the photoelectric sensor 25 near the cabinet door 15, at which point the tray frame 19 stops moving, and the cabinet door 15 is fully folded upward and opened; when the medicine is taken out and the tray frame 19 is driven back into the compartment, as the tray frame 19 retracts, the support rod 18 simultaneously pulls the cabinet door 15 to fold downward and close, until the light-blocking plate 26 at the bottom of the tray frame 19 moves from front to back to trigger the photoelectric sensor 25 deep inside, and stops.
[0032] It should be noted that adjacent storage compartments 11 in the same column cannot be opened at the same time. The cabinet door 15 must be closed before another compartment located above or below it can be opened to avoid interference.
[0033] In addition, each cabinet door 15 is equipped with a handle to facilitate manual opening of the cabinet door 15 for medication retrieval in special circumstances, such as power outages or damage to the moving parts. A camera module 16 (which is existing technology and will not be described in detail here) is fixed to the inner wall of each cabinet door 15. This camera module 16 is connected to the control terminal and is used to photograph the empty or replenished positions of the tray 20 during storage, medication retrieval, or return, facilitating data recording by the control terminal. Figure 9 As shown, an exhaust fan 32 is provided in each storage compartment 11. The exhaust fan 32 is fixed to the rear side of the main body 6 of the medicine cabinet, and a perforated plate 31 is fixed at intervals on the rear side of the exhaust fan 32.
[0034] The laboratory reagent cabinet provided in this embodiment constructs a cabinet structure that combines integrated control modules with a grid-based unit, thereby realizing automated and standardized classification and management of laboratory medicines, while improving the efficiency of medicine storage and retrieval, and ensuring the accuracy and traceability of medicine management.
[0035] Example 2, based on the laboratory reagent cabinet provided in Example 1, provides a smart management method for laboratory reagents, mainly including the processes of placing and replacing medicine trays, medicine storage, medicine retrieval and return, and medicine issuance. The specific operation steps are as follows: (1) Pallet placement and replacement Upon initial use, pallets of the corresponding size need to be placed in the appropriate storage compartment. Therefore, based on the pre-calculated diameter (circular) or side length (square) of all the medicine bottles to be stored, determine the appropriate pallet number and the required quantity for each number. Then, based on the height of the reagent bottles, refer to the storage compartment specification table above to determine the compartment number to which each size pallet should be placed. After verification, the operator enters the target storage compartment number into the industrial control computer and sends a signal to the motion mechanism of the corresponding storage compartment. The motor starts, and the synchronous belt drive causes the pallet rack to extend outward along the guide rail. Simultaneously, the support rod pushes the cabinet door outwards until the light-blocking plate at the bottom of the pallet rack triggers the photoelectric sensor near the cabinet door, stopping the motor, fully extending the pallet rack, and fully opening the cabinet door. The operator then attaches the appropriate pallet to the pallet rack. The camera module inside the cabinet door then captures an image of the pallet and identifies its specifications, transmitting the identified pallet number, unit size, and other information to the control terminal. After verifying the information, the control terminal stores the association information between the compartment and the corresponding pallet in the system database, completing the information entry, and controls the cabinet door to close, thus completing the pallet delivery for a single compartment. The above steps are repeated to complete the pallet delivery for all 14 compartments.
[0036] When subsequent batch replacements of medications require adjustments to pallet specifications, the medications in the target warehouse are first transferred out. Following the procedure described above, the target warehouse number is entered, and the control terminal drives the pallet rack in that warehouse to extend and the cabinet door to open. Operators then remove the remaining medications one by one, while green lights in the positioning slots of each pallet flash. The removed medications are temporarily stored in other available warehouses with compatible pallet specifications. During storage, the normal warehousing process is followed to ensure accurate entry of medication information into the system, completing the transfer of medications from the target warehouse. After the transfer is complete, operators remove the original pallets from the target warehouse and then attach the new-specification pallets to the pallet rack. The camera module inside the cabinet door automatically captures an image of the new pallet and identifies its specifications, transmitting the new pallet number, individual compartment dimensions, and other information to the control terminal. The new pallet data is updated and stored, completing the entry of new pallet information. The cabinet door is then closed, completing the replacement of the medication pallets. Finally, the previously transferred medications are re-entered into a suitable warehouse.
[0037] (2) Drug warehousing Before a single newly purchased medicine is put into storage, an electronic tag is first affixed to the bottom of the medicine bottle. Then, the medicine bottle with the electronic tag is placed on the weighing platform. After that, the barcode scanner scans the original information on the medicine packaging and displays it on the industrial control screen. The external dimensions of the reagent bottle are measured manually, and the data is entered into the industrial control computer operation interface. After confirming that the information is correct, the electronic tag reader on the weighing platform writes the detailed medicine information into the electronic tag at the bottom of the medicine bottle, completing the information entry.
[0038] The system then automatically matches the appropriate medicine tray size and its specific placement location based on the medicine information. Operators can also manually select the desired storage location on the industrial control computer interface. After confirming the location, the corresponding compartment motor drives the synchronous belt to push out the tray and open the cabinet door. Simultaneously, the yellow light corresponding to the medicine storage location on the tray begins to flash. Operators place the medicine bottles into the tray according to the yellow light indication. After placement, the camera module inside the compartment door automatically captures an image of the tray, verifying whether the actual medicine placement matches the system's preset location. If the location is correct, the indicator light for that slot on the tray turns off; if the location is incorrect, the indicator light flashes red, requiring readjustment of the medicine position until the light turns off, completing the location verification.
[0039] Additionally, if multiple medications need to be stored, the procedure depends on whether the storage rooms are the same. When medications need to be stored in the same room, there's no need to close the current room; simply repeat the single medication storage steps described above. When medications need to be stored in different rooms, first close the original room on the control panel, then open the new room, and then execute the single medication storage process described above. After the group medications are stored, click "Confirm" on the control panel to close the corresponding cabinet door; the operation is complete.
[0040] (3) Drug collection and return Operators who have passed facial or fingerprint identity verification input the required drug information on the industrial control computer. After confirmation, the system drives the corresponding storage unit to start, which controls the motor to drive the synchronous belt to extend the tray and open the cabinet door simultaneously. Following the green light flashing inside the tray, the target drug is retrieved. At this time, the camera on the cabinet door takes a picture and transmits the location information of the retrieved drug to the control terminal. The retrieved drug is placed on the weighing platform, and the system automatically identifies and verifies the drug information via a card reader (including comparing the appearance and location information of the retrieved reagent captured by the camera with the target reagent information, and verifying the information captured by the weighing platform). The system verifies the association between the reagent weight and the reagent information read by the electronic tag reader. After both levels of verification pass, the control terminal allows the operator to take the reagent. At the same time, the weight is recorded, and the industrial control computer prompts that it is correct before the reagent can be taken. At this time, the green light of the corresponding reagent compartment on the tray flashes and then turns into a solid green light. After the required medicine in the reagent bottle is taken out, it is placed back on the weighing platform. The operator selects to return the medicine on the industrial control computer. The system automatically reads the medicine information and weighs and records it again, while updating the information to the electronic tag. The medicine is placed back in its original position according to the solid green light indicator on the tray. At the same time, the camera module on the cabinet door recognizes the medicine and turns off the corresponding light after confirming that it is correct.
[0041] It is important to note that when returning multiple bottles of medicine to the same storage room, you need to confirm that the previous reagent bottle was exchanged correctly before proceeding with the return process for the next bottle. After all medicines have been returned, click "confirm" on the industrial control screen, and the corresponding storage room pallet will be recycled and the cabinet door will be closed.
[0042] (4) Drugs being issued After completing facial / fingerprint recognition and identity verification, the operator unlocks the system's outbound operation permission. On the industrial control screen, the operator selects the target reagent to be removed from the management system. The control terminal then drives the corresponding storage unit's movement mechanism to deliver the storage tray, simultaneously opening the cabinet door. An indicator light next to the target reagent's positioning slot flashes green. The operator retrieves the target reagent as instructed and places it on the weighing platform. The weighing platform collects the reagent's real-time weight, and the control terminal compares this information with the target reagent's information. Upon successful verification, the operator clicks "confirm" on the industrial control screen, the indicator light next to the target reagent's positioning slot turns off, and the control terminal automatically records detailed information such as the reagent's name, specifications, weight, outbound time, and operator, generating an outbound data table. This table allows the operator to perform storage or export operations. After the data operation is complete, the operator clicks the "close" command on the industrial control screen, and the control terminal drives the movement mechanism to retrieve the tray and close the cabinet door, completing the entire outbound process.
[0043] The embodiments of the present invention described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A laboratory reagent cabinet, characterized in that: It includes a control terminal, a display module, a storage module, a drug information collection and verification module, and an information recognition module; The drug information collection and verification module is connected to the control terminal signal. It is used to collect the basic information, appearance size and real-time weight of the reagent when the reagent is put into storage, and transmit the collected data to the control terminal so as to write the reagent information into the electronic tag at the bottom of the reagent bottle. It also collects the real-time weight and electronic tag information of the reagent bottle when the reagent is actually taken or returned, so as to perform information consistency verification when the reagent is taken. The storage module consists of multiple storage units, each of which has an independent storage compartment. Each compartment is equipped with a tray that matches reagent bottles of different sizes, and a motion mechanism for controlling the tray to move the reagent bottles in and out of the compartment. The motion mechanism is connected to the control terminal. The information identification module is connected to the control terminal signal and is used to identify the pallet specifications in each compartment, as well as to collect the position and appearance information of reagent bottles when they are put into storage, taken out or returned, and feed it back to the control terminal. The display module is connected to the control terminal and is used to display the basic information, inventory status, expiration date information and operation instructions of the reagents in each storage unit in real time. The control terminal is used to receive and process information transmitted by each module and to issue control commands to each module.
2. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The drug information collection and verification module includes a barcode scanner, a weighing platform, and an electronic tag reader. The barcode scanner is used to scan the original information on the reagent bottle packaging. The weighing platform is used to collect the initial weight of the reagent bottle upon entry into the warehouse and the real-time weight when it is picked up and returned. An electronic tag is provided at the bottom of the reagent bottle. The reader is set on the weighing platform and is used to write or read the information in the electronic tag at the bottom of the reagent bottle.
3. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The information recognition module includes a camera module and indicator lights. The camera module is installed on the inside of the cabinet door of each compartment, and the indicator lights are fixed in the corresponding cells of each reagent bottle in the tray. Each indicator light is connected to the control terminal signal and is used to provide different colored light guidance for the entry, retrieval or return of reagent bottles.
4. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The motion mechanism includes a guide drive assembly and a flip assembly. The flip assembly is used to control the inward and outward folding and opening of the compartment door, and the guide drive assembly is used to drive the tray and reagent bottle inside the compartment to slide and extend along the depth direction of the compartment.
5. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 4, characterized in that: The guiding drive assembly includes a tray frame, guide rails, a synchronous belt, a synchronous pulley, and a motor. The guide rails are symmetrically fixed to the left and right side walls of the compartment. The tray frame is adapted to slide on the guide rails. A synchronous pulley is located below the tray frame, and a synchronous belt is wound around the synchronous pulley. The other end of the synchronous belt extends to the rear side of the compartment and connects to the synchronous pulley on the motor output shaft. The tray frame and the synchronous belt are fixed together by a connector. The motor is fixed to the rear side wall of the compartment and is signal-connected to a control terminal to drive the synchronous belt to rotate so as to control the tray frame to extend and retract along the guide rails via the connector. The tray is placed on the tray frame and has a positioning slot adapted to the size of the reagent bottle.
6. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 5, characterized in that: The compartment is also equipped with photoelectric sensors, which are spaced apart along the movement direction of the pallet frame. A light-blocking plate adapted to the photoelectric sensors is fixed at the bottom of the pallet frame, and the photoelectric sensors are signal-connected to the control terminal. The light-blocking plate triggers the photoelectric sensors at the corresponding positions and sends a feedback signal to the control terminal to limit the extension and retraction position of the pallet frame.
7. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flipping assembly includes a hinge and a support rod. One end of the hinge is hinged to the top wall of the compartment, and the other end is hinged to the compartment door. The support rod is hinged between the pallet frame and the door. When the pallet frame extends out of the compartment, the support rod pushes the door to flip upward around the hinge and open. When the pallet frame is retracted into the compartment, the support rod pulls the door to flip downward around the hinge and close.
8. The laboratory reagent cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display module includes an industrial computer and an advertising screen. The industrial computer is integrated into the operation panel of the control terminal and is used to display the operation interface, reagent information and operation prompts. The advertising screen is used to rotate all reagent information and special drug warning information.
9. A smart management method for laboratory reagents, using the laboratory reagent cabinet described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that: The process includes the following steps: (1) Drug warehousing After the operator attaches the pre-made electronic tag to the bottom of the reagent bottle, the reagent bottle is placed on the weighing platform of the drug information collection and verification module to collect the basic information and initial weight on the reagent bottle packaging, and all collected data is transmitted synchronously to the control terminal. The control terminal will write the full information of the above reagents into the electronic tag through the electronic tag reader, and automatically match or manually select the appropriate storage unit based on the reagent specifications and inventory status. Then, the control terminal drives the motion mechanism of the target storage unit to deliver the medicine storage tray; based on the light indication position of the information recognition module, the reagent bottle is placed in the tray, and the tray image is captured again and fed back. After the control terminal verifies the data, it drives the motion mechanism to retrieve the tray and close the cabinet door, and records the storage data. (2) Drug collection and return After the verified operator selects the target reagent, the control terminal drives the corresponding storage unit to open the cabinet door and send out the medicine storage tray. After the operator takes the reagent bottle, the information recognition module takes a picture to identify the empty position information, illuminates the light to guide the operator, and sends feedback to the control terminal. The operator places the removed reagent bottle on the weighing platform. The medicine information collection and verification module confirms the medicine information and weighs and records the weight. After the verification is passed, the control terminal records the data taken out, allows the reagent to be taken out, and the medicine storage tray is recycled and the cabinet door is closed. Upon return, the operator selects the reagent to be returned and places it on the weighing platform. The drug information collection and verification module confirms the drug information and records the weighing data upon return. The control terminal drives the corresponding storage unit to send out the storage tray and put the reagent back in its original position. At the same time, the information recognition module collects images and provides feedback. After the control terminal verifies the data, it drives the motion mechanism to retrieve the tray and close the cabinet door, updating the inventory data. (3) Drugs being issued For medicines that need to be removed from the system, the control terminal drives the motion mechanism of the corresponding storage unit to send out the pallet. The operator takes the target reagent and places it on the weighing platform. The medicine information collection and verification module reads the medicine information and real-time weight. The control terminal compares and verifies the collected information with the target outbound reagent information. After the verification is passed, the medicine is released from the warehouse. The control terminal automatically records the outbound reagent information and generates an outbound data table. After the medicine is released from the warehouse, the pallet is retrieved and the warehouse door is closed.
10. The intelligent management method for laboratory reagents according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes the process of placing and replacing trays. When placing trays: the drug information collection and verification module determines the corresponding specifications of the trays based on the appearance and size of the reagent bottles, and places the drug trays of each specification into the storage compartments of different heights based on the height of the reagent bottles; the information identification module identifies the specifications of the trays and transmits them to the control terminal for data recording and storage; after placement is completed, the cabinet door can be closed. When a pallet needs to be replaced: First, all reagent bottles in the existing pallet are removed from the warehouse or temporarily stored in another warehouse. The control terminal drives the storage unit where the pallet to be replaced is located to open the cabinet door and send out the pallet. The operator takes out the old pallet and puts it into the new pallet. The information identification module identifies the new pallet and transmits the information to the control terminal for storage. Finally, the medicines taken out from the warehouse can be put back into the warehouse.