Sample circulation mechanism and multifunctional sample detection device

By designing the sample flow mechanism and using the intermediate conversion track and the transition unit, the efficient flow of samples between the detection function stations is achieved, which solves the problems of low sample flow efficiency and blockage in the prior art, and improves the detection efficiency.

CN222939130UActive Publication Date: 2025-06-03SUZHOU HYBIOME BIOMEDICAL ENG CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202420877487.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-04-25
Publication Date
2025-06-03
Estimated Expiration
2034-04-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the existing sample detection methods, if the samples loaded in the sample rack belong to different holders and the testing items have different requirements, the samples must be taken out first and transferred to the corresponding detection instrument, resulting in blockage of the assembly line and low detection efficiency.

Method used

A sample flow mechanism is designed, including parallel inflow and outflow rails, intermediate conversion rails, first transition unit, reversing unit and second transition unit. Through the coordinated operation of these components, the samples can pass through the detection function station, reducing the waiting time.

Benefits of technology

Through the design of the sample flow mechanism, samples can efficiently flow between the detection functional stations, reducing waiting time, improving detection efficiency, and reducing the risk of accumulation and blockage before the detection functional stations.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to a sample circulation mechanism and a multifunctional sample detection device, the sample circulation mechanism comprises an inflow track and an outflow track, and a detection function station is arranged above the outflow track; the middle conversion rail is located between the inflow rail and the outflow rail. The first rail switching unit is arranged on the inflow rail and the middle switching rail; the reversing unit and the second rail switching unit are located between the middle switching rail and the outflow rail. A circulation terminal of the reversing unit on the outflow track is located at the upstream end of the detection function station, and a circulation terminal of the second shunting unit on the outflow track is located at the downstream end of the detection function station; the reversing unit can control the sample to be transferred to the position under the detection function station or the second shunt unit; and the transfer starting end of the reversing unit on the middle transfer track is positioned at the downstream of the transfer terminal of the first transfer track unit on the middle transfer track. And the reversing unit, the second transition rail unit and the middle transition rail are utilized to facilitate the sample to cross a single detection function station, so that the circulation efficiency is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of biological detection technology, and in particular to a sample circulation mechanism and a multifunctional sample detection device. Background Art

[0002] In the field of sample testing, the existing testing methods will conduct customized testing on samples. Customized testing specifically refers to performing multiple different testing items on samples according to the needs of the sample holder. The existing method of loading samples through sample racks is to transfer sample racks between testing instruments. However, if there are two samples loaded in the sample rack that belong to two different holders, and the two holders have different testing item requirements, then it is necessary to first take out the samples in the sample rack and transfer them to the testing instruments corresponding to the different testing items.

[0003] However, when using an assembly line to circulate single-tube samples and arranging multiple testing instruments for performing testing items on the assembly line in sequence, the sample flow is limited by the time required for each testing item and the testing items that need to be performed on each sample, and the assembly lines corresponding to the testing instruments for some testing items are prone to blockage. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to solve the above technical problems, this application provides the following technical solutions:

[0005] On the one hand, the present application provides a sample circulation mechanism, comprising:

[0006] The inflow track and outflow track are arranged in parallel and in opposite directions, and a detection function station is arranged above the outflow track;

[0007] An intermediate transfer track, the intermediate transfer track is located between the inflow track and the outflow track, and the transmission direction of the intermediate transfer track is consistent with the transmission direction of the outflow track;

[0008] A first transfer unit, the first transfer unit is arranged between the inflow track and the intermediate transfer track, and is used to transfer the sample from the first transfer unit to the intermediate transfer track;

[0009] The reversing unit and the second transfer unit are both located between the intermediate transfer track and the outflow track, and are used to transfer the sample between the intermediate transfer track and the outflow track; the transfer terminal of the reversing unit on the outflow track is located at the upstream end of the detection function station, and the transfer terminal of the second transfer unit on the outflow track is located at the downstream end of the detection function station; the reversing unit can control the sample to be transferred to the bottom of the detection function station or the second transfer unit;

[0010] The starting point of the reversing unit on the intermediate transfer track is located downstream of the terminal point of the first transfer unit on the intermediate transfer track.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first switching unit includes a driving module and a baffle. The baffle is installed on the power output end of the driving module. Driven by the driving module, the baffle can move to the moving path of the vehicle on the inflow track.

[0012] In one embodiment, an avoidance groove is provided on one side of the inflow track and the intermediate conversion track close to each other. The vehicle on the inflow track is transferred to the intermediate conversion track through the avoidance groove;

[0013] The avoidance groove is arranged corresponding to the first switching unit. Driven by the driving module, the baffle can move to be connected with the avoidance groove;

[0014] A switching transfer belt is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove. When the vehicle flows into the avoidance groove, the switching transfer belt drives the vehicle to move towards the intermediate conversion track.

[0015] In one embodiment, an avoidance groove corresponding to the second switching unit is provided on one side of the outflow track and the intermediate conversion track close to each other. A switching transfer belt is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove. The vehicle in the intermediate conversion track is transferred to the outflow track through the switching transfer belt;

[0016] The switching transfer belts in the two avoidance grooves are driven by the same driving unit.

[0017] In one embodiment, a first switching unit and a first identification module are installed on one side of the inflow track relative to the intermediate conversion track. The first switching unit is electrically connected to the driving module;

[0018] The first switching unit and the first identification module are arranged in sequence along the transmission direction of the inflow track.

[0019] In one embodiment, the commutation unit includes a circular stop block and a driver. The stop block is located on the vehicle flow paths of both the intermediate conversion track and the outflow track at the same time;

[0020] A relief groove for receiving the vehicle is formed in the stop block. The relief groove extends to the side surface of the stop block to form an opening, and the vehicle can enter the relief groove from the opening.

[0021] In one embodiment, a second identification module is installed on the outflow track. The second identification module is electrically connected to the driver. The second identification module is arranged corresponding to the relief groove of the stop block, and the second identification module is used to identify the test tube loaded on the vehicle.

[0022] In one embodiment, the second identification module is a barcode scanner. The scanning light of the barcode scanner passes above the relief groove of the stop block. When the vehicle is installed in the relief groove, the barcode scanner scans the test tube loaded on the vehicle.

[0023] In one of the embodiments, the vehicle is circular, the inner wall of the relief groove is in the shape of a major arc, and the width of the opening is not less than the diameter of the vehicle.

[0024] On the other hand, the present application also provides a multi-functional sample detection device, including at least two sample transfer mechanisms provided in the above-mentioned embodiments, and the inflow track and the outflow track are connected one by one;

[0025] At least two functional components are arranged in sequence along the transmission direction of the outflow track. The functional components are arranged corresponding to the detection function stations, and the functional components are used to implement different detection processes.

[0026] The present application has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0027] In the present application, by providing an intermediate conversion track, the sample is transferred to the intermediate conversion track by using the commutation unit, and then the sample is returned to the outflow track again by using the second track conversion unit, so that the sample can bypass the detection function station and flow to the subsequent detection function station, so as to reduce the waiting time of the sample before a single detection function station. Description of the Drawings

[0028] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the sample transfer mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application from the first perspective.

[0029] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the sample transfer mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application from the second perspective.

[0030] Figure 3 It is a top view of the sample transfer mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0031] Figure 4 It is a top view of a partial structure of the multi-functional sample detection device provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0032] Reference Signs:

[0033] 11. First detection function station; 12. Second detection function station;

[0034] 21. Inflow track; 22. Intermediate conversion track; 23. Outflow track; 24. First track conversion unit; 25. Commutation unit; 26. Second track conversion unit;

[0035] 211. First conveyor belt; 212. First identification module; 213. Track conversion conveyor belt;

[0036] 231. Second conveyor belt; 232. Second identification module; 234. In-place detection module;

[0037] 241. Driving module; 242. Baffle;

[0038] 31. Vehicle; 32. Test tube. Detailed implementation manner

[0039] To make the above objects, features, and advantages of the present application more apparent and understandable, the following provides a detailed description of the specific implementation manners of the present application with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to facilitate a full understanding of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar improvements without departing from the connotation of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not limited by the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0040] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that if terms such as "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "vertical", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. appear, the orientation or positional relationship indicated by these terms is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and thus should not be construed as a limitation of the present application.

[0041] In addition, if terms such as "first", "second", "third" appear, these terms are only for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first", "second", "third" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. In the description of the present application, if the term "plurality" appears, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically and clearly defined.

[0042] In the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, if terms such as "installed", "connected", "connected to", "fixed" appear, these terms should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or integrated; it may be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it may be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it may be the communication inside two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly limited. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0043] In this application, unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, when a first feature is described as being "on" or "under" a second feature or similar descriptions, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are indirectly in contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on top of" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature. The first feature being "under", "beneath" and "underneath" the second feature may be that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the horizontal height of the first feature is less than that of the second feature.

[0044] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "disposed on" or "provided on" another element, it may be directly on the other element or there may also be an intermediate element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it may be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element at the same time. If so, the terms "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "left", "right" and similar expressions used in this application are only for the purpose of illustration and do not represent the only implementation.

[0045] The embodiments of the present application will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

[0046] Refer to Figures 1-4 As shown, in some embodiments of the present application, the present application provides a multi-functional sample detection device, including at least two sample transfer mechanisms. The sample transfer mechanism includes: an inflow track 21, an intermediate conversion track 22, an outflow track 23, a first track conversion unit 24, a commutation unit 25 and a second track conversion unit 26. The inflow tracks 21 and the outflow tracks 23 in at least two sample transfer mechanisms are connected in one-to-one correspondence, that is, the inflow tracks 21 in multiple sample transfer mechanisms are connected, and the outflow tracks 23 in multiple sample transfer mechanisms are connected. The transmission directions of the inflow track 21 and the outflow track 23 are opposite.

[0047] In this solution, the inflow track 21 and the outflow track 23 are arranged in parallel, and the intermediate conversion track 22 is located between the inflow track 21 and the outflow track 23, so that the inflow track 21, the intermediate conversion track 22 and the outflow track 23 are all arranged in parallel. The transmission direction of the intermediate conversion track 22 is the same as that of the outflow track 23. A detection function station is arranged above the outflow track 23. Specifically, the detection function station at least includes a first detection function station 11 and a second detection function station 12 arranged in sequence along the transmission direction of the outflow track 23. The outflow track 23 includes a second conveyor belt 231, and function components consistent with the number of detection function stations are arranged on one side of the second conveyor belt 231. The function components are arranged corresponding to the detection function stations, and the function components perform different detection processes at the corresponding detection function stations.

[0048] The first transfer unit 24 is disposed between the inflow track 21 and the intermediate conversion track 22, and the first transfer unit 24 is used to transfer the sample from the first transfer unit 24 to the intermediate conversion track 22. The carrier 31 on the inflow track 21 is transferred to the intermediate conversion track 22 via the first transfer unit 24.

[0049] The commutation unit 25 and the second transfer unit 26 are both located between the intermediate conversion track 22 and the outflow track 23, and the commutation unit 25 and the second transfer unit 26 are used to transfer the sample between the intermediate conversion track 22 and the outflow track 23. On the one hand, the commutation unit 25 can transfer the carrier 31 on the intermediate conversion track 22 to the outflow track 23 or transfer the carrier 31 on the outflow track 23 to the intermediate conversion track 22; on the other hand, the second transfer unit 26 can transfer the carrier 31 on the intermediate conversion track 22 to the outflow track 23. The flow terminal of the commutation unit 25 on the outflow track 23 is located at the upstream end of the detection function station, and the flow terminal of the second transfer unit 26 on the outflow track 23 is located at the downstream end of the detection function station, so that the commutation unit 25 and the second transfer unit 26 are arranged on both sides of the detection function station. The commutation unit 25 can control the sample to be transferred directly below the detection function station or to the second transfer unit 26. The sample is placed in the test tube 32 loaded on the carrier 31. The first transfer unit 24, the commutation unit 25 and the second transfer unit 26 actually drive the carrier 31, the test tube 32 and the sample to be transferred together.

[0050] Among them, the flow start end of the commutation unit 25 on the intermediate conversion track 22 is located downstream of the flow terminal of the first transfer unit 24 on the intermediate conversion track 22. The carrier 31 flows on the inflow track 21, the intermediate conversion track 22 and the outflow track 23, and uses the commutation unit 25, the second transfer unit 26 and the intermediate conversion track 22, so that the carrier 31 can approach the second detection function station 12 after passing over the first detection function station 11, so that according to the user's needs, the sample flows into the corresponding detection function station for corresponding detection procedures. Compared with the existing pipeline structure, for some functional components with longer detection procedures, if the sample in the test tube 32 does not need to undergo the corresponding detection procedure, in this solution, the carrier 31 loaded with the test tube 32 passes over some detection function stations, reducing the waiting time in front of the corresponding detection function stations, improving the detection efficiency of the sample, and at the same time reducing the accumulation in front of these detection function stations and reducing the risk of blockage.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present application, the inflow track 21 includes a first conveyor belt 211. A first track-switching unit 24 and a first identification module 212 are installed on one side of the first conveyor belt 211 relative to the intermediate conversion track 22. The first track-switching unit 24 is electrically connected to the driving module 241; the first track-switching unit 24 and the first identification module 212 are arranged in sequence along the transmission direction of the inflow track 21.

[0052] The first track-switching unit 24 includes a driving module 241 and a baffle 242. The baffle 242 is installed on the power output end of the driving module 241. Driven by the driving module 241, the baffle 242 can move to the moving path of the vehicle 31 on the inflow track 21.

[0053] The first identification module 212 is used to identify the test tube 32 on the vehicle 31 to determine whether the detection process required for the sample in the test tube 32 is downstream of the detection function station corresponding to the first track-switching unit 24. If all the required detection processes are downstream of the detection function station corresponding to the first track-switching unit 24, the first identification module 212 controls the driving module 241 to drive the baffle 242, so that the baffle 242 blocks the first conveyor belt 211, forcing the vehicle 31 to flow to the intermediate conversion track 22. If there is a detection process that is upstream of the detection function station corresponding to the first track-switching unit 24, the vehicle 31 continues to move along the inflow track 21.

[0054] Further, an avoidance groove is provided on the side of the inflow track 21 close to the intermediate conversion track 22. The vehicle 31 on the inflow track 21 is transferred to the intermediate conversion track 22 through the avoidance groove. The avoidance groove is provided corresponding to the first track-switching unit 24. Driven by the driving module 241, the baffle 242 can move to be connected to the avoidance groove.

[0055] To facilitate the transfer of the vehicle 31 between the inflow track 21 and the intermediate conversion track 22, a track-switching conveyor belt 213 is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove. The track-switching conveyor belt 213 drives the vehicle 31 to move in a direction perpendicular to the transmission direction of the inflow track 21. The vehicle 31 flows into the avoidance groove, and the track-switching conveyor belt 213 drives the vehicle 31 to transfer towards the intermediate conversion track 22.

[0056] At the same time, an avoidance groove corresponding to the second track-switching unit 26 is provided on the side of the outflow track 23 close to the intermediate conversion track 22. A track-switching conveyor belt 213 is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove. The vehicle 31 in the intermediate conversion track 22 is transferred to the outflow track 23 through the track-switching conveyor belt 213;

[0057] Furthermore, the track-switching conveyor belts 213 in the two avoidance grooves are driven by the same driving unit, simplifying the structure of the track-switching conveyor belt 213.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present application, Figures 2-3 As shown, the reversing unit 25 can transfer the carrier 31 on the intermediate transfer track 22 to the outflow track 23 or transfer the carrier 31 on the outflow track 23 to the intermediate transfer track 22. Specifically, the reversing unit 25 includes a circular stop block and a driver, and the stop block is located on the flow path of the carrier 31 of the intermediate transfer track 22 and the outflow track 23. A clearance groove for accommodating the carrier 31 is provided on the stop block, and the clearance groove extends to the side of the stop block to form an opening, and the carrier 31 can enter the clearance groove from the opening.

[0059] In this solution, the carrier 31 is installed on the stop block. When the driver rotates, the stop block drives the carrier 31 to rotate out of the track 23 or the intermediate conversion track 22. Since the carrier 31 is located in the yield groove, the carrier 31 can pass through the obstruction of the stop block.

[0060] More specifically, the carrier 31 is circular, the inner wall of the clearance groove is in the shape of a major arc, and the width of the opening is not less than the diameter of the carrier 31. The major arc is an arc larger than a semicircle, and after the carrier 31 enters the clearance groove, the clearance groove can also limit the carrier 31 from escaping from the clearance groove, and after the carrier 31 can pass through the stop block, it is driven by the conveyor belt of the outflow track 23 or the intermediate conversion track 22, and the carrier 31 escapes from the clearance groove.

[0061] Furthermore, a second identification module 232 is installed on the outflow track 23, the second identification module 232 is electrically connected to the driver, and the second identification module 232 is arranged corresponding to the clearance groove of the stop block, and the second identification module 232 is used to identify the test tube 32 loaded on the carrier 31. Specifically, the second identification module 232 is a barcode scanner, and the scanning light of the barcode scanner passes above the clearance groove of the stop block. The carrier 31 is installed in the clearance groove, and the barcode scanner scans the test tube 32 loaded on the carrier 31. An information code is attached to the test tube 32, and it is determined whether the sample in the test tube 32 needs to perform the detection process of the nearest detection component according to the information on the information code. Among them, the nearest detection component is the detection component closest to the downstream of the corresponding second identification module 232 in the transmission direction of the outflow track 23.

[0062] The above embodiments are used to further illustrate the present application, but the present application is not limited to these specific implementations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application should be understood to be within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A sample circulation mechanism, characterized in that: include: An inflow track (21) and an outflow track (23) are arranged in parallel and in opposite directions of transmission, and a detection function station is arranged above the outflow track (23); an intermediate conversion track (22), the intermediate conversion track (22) being located between the inflow track (21) and the outflow track (23), the transmission direction of the intermediate conversion track (22) being consistent with the transmission direction of the outflow track (23); A first transfer unit (24), the first transfer unit (24) being disposed between the inflow track (21) and the intermediate transfer track (22) and being used for transferring the sample from the first transfer unit (24) to the intermediate transfer track (22); a reversing unit (25) and a second transfer unit (26), wherein the reversing unit (25) and the second transfer unit (26) are both located between the intermediate transfer track (22) and the outflow track (23) and are used to transfer the sample between the intermediate transfer track (22) and the outflow track (23); the transfer terminal of the reversing unit (25) on the outflow track (23) is located at the upstream end of the detection function station, and the transfer terminal of the second transfer unit (26) on the outflow track (23) is located at the downstream end of the detection function station; the reversing unit (25) can control the sample to be transferred to the bottom of the detection function station or to the second transfer unit (26); The starting point of the reversing unit (25) on the intermediate transfer track (22) is located downstream of the terminal point of the first transfer unit (24) on the intermediate transfer track (22).

2. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first track switching unit (24) comprises a driving module (241) and a baffle (242); the baffle (242) is mounted on a power output end of the driving module (241); and driven by the driving module (241), the baffle (242) can move to a moving path of a vehicle (31) on the inflow track (21).

3. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: An avoidance groove is provided on a side where the inflow track (21) and the intermediate transfer track (22) are close to each other, and the vehicle (31) on the inflow track (21) is transferred to the intermediate transfer track (22) through the avoidance groove; The avoidance groove is arranged corresponding to the first rail transfer unit (24), and under the driving of the driving module (241), the baffle (242) can move to connect with the avoidance groove; A transfer conveyor belt (213) is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove, and the carrier (31) flows into the avoidance groove, and the transfer conveyor belt (213) drives the carrier (31) to transfer toward the intermediate transfer track (22).

4. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: An avoidance groove corresponding to the second transfer unit (26) is provided on a side where the outflow track (23) and the intermediate transfer track (22) are close to each other, and a transfer conveyor belt (213) is provided at the bottom of the avoidance groove, and the carrier (31) in the intermediate transfer track (22) is transferred to the outflow track (23) via the transfer conveyor belt (213); The track-switching conveyor belts (213) in the two avoidance grooves are driven by the same driving unit.

5. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: A first track switching unit (24) and a first identification module (212) are installed on one side of the inflow track (21) relative to the intermediate transfer track (22); the first track switching unit (24) and the driving module (241) are electrically connected; The first track switching unit (24) and the first identification module (212) are arranged in sequence along the transmission direction of the inflow track (21).

6. The sample circulation mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The reversing unit (25) comprises a circular stop block and a driver, wherein the stop block is located simultaneously on the flow path of the carrier (31) of the intermediate conversion track (22) and the outflow track (23); The stop block is provided with a clearance groove for accommodating the carrier (31), the clearance groove extends to the side surface of the stop block to form an opening, and the carrier (31) can enter the clearance groove from the opening.

7. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that: A second identification module (232) is installed on the outflow track (23), the second identification module (232) is electrically connected to the driver, the second identification module (232) is arranged corresponding to the clearance groove of the stop block, and the second identification module (232) is used to identify the test tube loaded on the carrier (31).

8. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second identification module (232) is a barcode scanner, the scanning light of the barcode scanner passes above the clearance groove of the stop block, the carrier (31) is installed in the clearance groove, and the barcode scanner scans the test tube loaded on the carrier (31).

9. The sample circulation mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The carrier (31) is circular, the inner wall of the clearance groove is in the shape of a major arc, and the width of the opening is not less than the diameter of the carrier (31).

10. A multifunctional sample detection device, characterized in that: The method comprises at least two sample circulation mechanisms according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the inflow track (21) and the outflow track (23) are arranged in one-to-one communication; At least two functional components are arranged in sequence on the outflow track (23) along its transmission direction. The functional components are arranged corresponding to the detection functional stations and are used to implement different detection processes.