An access device for samples, laboratory automation system

Abstract

This application discloses a sample loading / unloading device and a laboratory automation system, relating to the field of sample loading / unloading technology. The sample loading / unloading device includes a sample operation module for loading and transporting sample trays; a tray loading component of the sample operation module for loading the sample trays; a tray transport component connected to the tray loading component for transporting the tray loading component; and a tray positioning component located on the movement path of the tray loading component, equipped with a first positioning structure. When the tray loading component moves to its origin position, the first positioning structure vertically positions the sample tray at a predetermined vertical position. This sample loading / unloading device, through the tray positioning component performing vertical positioning when the sample tray moves to its origin position, effectively corrects for sample tray position deviations caused by excessive travel distances, ensuring accurate positioning of the sample tray after loading, and improving the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of sample loading and unloading technology, and in particular to a sample loading and unloading device and a laboratory automation system. Background Technology

[0002] In laboratory automation systems, the loading and unloading of sample trays is a crucial part of the experimental process. Currently, the loading and unloading of sample trays mainly relies on manual operation. While this method can meet basic experimental needs to a certain extent, it has significant shortcomings in terms of automation and operational efficiency.

[0003] Existing sample tray support devices, during manual sample loading, are prone to problems such as the tray sinking due to its own weight or being subject to vibration, leading to swaying and inaccurate positioning when the travel distance is too long. These problems not only affect the precise positioning of the sample tray but may also cause subsequent experimental operations to fail, reducing the overall performance and reliability of the laboratory automation system. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a sample loading and unloading device that uses a tray positioning component to vertically position the sample tray when it returns to its original position. This effectively corrects for sample tray positional deviations caused by excessive travel distances, ensuring precise positioning of the sample tray after loading and improving the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system. Another purpose of this application is to provide a laboratory automation system.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a sample loading / unloading device, comprising:

[0006] Sample tray;

[0007] A sample handling module for loading and transporting the sample tray; the sample handling module includes:

[0008] A tray loading assembly for loading the sample tray;

[0009] A pallet transport assembly is connected to the pallet loading assembly, and the pallet transport assembly is used to transport the pallet loading assembly;

[0010] A pallet positioning component is located on the movement path of the pallet loading component. The pallet positioning component is provided with a first positioning structure. When the pallet loading component moves to the original position, the first positioning structure positions the sample pallet at a vertically set position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the pallet positioning component is further provided with a second positioning structure; when the pallet loading component moves to the original position, the second positioning structure positions the sample pallet at a laterally set position in the lateral direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are rotating structures;

[0013] The rotation axis of the first positioning structure is perpendicular to the vertical of the sample tray, and the rotation surface of the first positioning structure is in contact with the vertical bottom of the tray loading assembly;

[0014] The rotation axis of the second positioning structure is perpendicular to the side of the sample tray, and the rotation surface of the second positioning structure is in contact with the side of the tray loading assembly.

[0015] In some embodiments, the rotating structure is a bearing.

[0016] In some embodiments, the pallet positioning assembly includes an origin positioning seat, on which the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are disposed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the number of the first positioning structures is multiple, and the multiple first positioning structures are symmetrically arranged.

[0018] In some embodiments, the number of the second positioning structures is multiple, and the multiple second positioning structures are symmetrically arranged.

[0019] In some embodiments, the sample inlet / outlet device further includes:

[0020] A panel assembly connected to the tray loading assembly, the panel assembly being provided with a first mating member;

[0021] A positioning module is located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly. The positioning module is provided with a second mating component. When the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating component and the second mating component cooperate to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

[0022] In some embodiments, one of the first mating member and the second mating member includes a suction plate, and the other includes an electromagnet that mates with the suction plate.

[0023] In some embodiments, the pallet loading assembly is provided with a first mating structure; the sample loading / unloading device further includes:

[0024] A positioning module is located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly. The positioning module is provided with a second mating structure. When the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating structure and the second mating structure cooperate to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

[0025] In some embodiments, one of the first mating structure and the second mating structure includes a boss, and the other includes a first groove that mates with the boss;

[0026] One of the first mating structure and the second mating structure includes a top bead, and the other includes a second groove that mates with the top bead. The extension direction of the boss is different from the extension direction of the top bead.

[0027] In some embodiments, the pallet transport assembly includes:

[0028] Electric motor;

[0029] A synchronous belt is connected to the motor drive, and the synchronous belt is connected to the pallet loading assembly.

[0030] In some embodiments, the pallet loading assembly includes:

[0031] Pallet loading station;

[0032] The first support base and the second support base are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the tray mounting platform.

[0033] In some embodiments, the sample running module further includes:

[0034] An origin sensor and an origin sensing element are provided, one of which is located on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the origin position.

[0035] In some embodiments, one of the endpoint sensor and the endpoint sensing element is disposed on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the endpoint position.

[0036] This application also provides a laboratory automation system, including the above-mentioned sample loading and unloading device.

[0037] Compared to the aforementioned background technology, the sample loading and unloading device provided in this application mainly includes a sample tray and a sample running module. The sample running module is used to load and transport the sample tray. The sample running module includes a tray loading component, a tray transport component, and a tray positioning component. The tray loading component is used to load the sample tray. The tray transport component is connected to the tray loading component and is used to transport the tray loading component. The tray positioning component is located on the movement path of the tray loading component and is provided with a first positioning structure. When the tray loading component moves to the origin position, the first positioning structure positions the sample tray in a vertically set position.

[0038] In laboratory automation systems, the loading and unloading of sample trays is a crucial step in the experimental process. However, existing manual sample loading methods are prone to problems such as tray swaying and inaccurate positioning due to the tray's own weight or vibration when faced with long loading distances. These issues not only affect the precise positioning of the sample tray but may also lead to the failure of subsequent experimental operations, reducing the overall performance and reliability of the laboratory automation system.

[0039] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a sample loading / unloading device, primarily comprising a sample tray and a sample handling module. The sample handling module is the core component for automatically loading and unloading the sample tray; its ingenious internal structure effectively overcomes the shortcomings of existing technologies. Specifically, the sample handling module includes a tray loading assembly, a tray transport assembly, and a tray positioning assembly. The tray loading assembly loads the sample tray, ensuring its stability and safety during transport. The tray transport assembly, connected to the tray loading assembly, is responsible for transporting the loaded sample tray to a designated location. During transport, the sample tray may be affected by various external forces, causing positional deviation. To ensure accurate positioning of the sample tray, a tray positioning assembly is positioned along the movement path of the tray loading assembly. When the tray loading assembly reaches its origin, the first positioning structure in the tray positioning assembly vertically positions the sample tray, placing it in the designated vertical position. This design, by vertically positioning the sample tray at a critical location (origin), effectively corrects the sample tray positional deviation caused by excessive travel distance, thereby ensuring accurate positioning of the sample tray after loading. In this way, the sample loading and unloading device of this application not only improves the positioning accuracy of the sample tray, but also enhances the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system, providing a more efficient and accurate solution for laboratory automation operations.

[0040] Based on the above structural and process descriptions, it can be seen that the sample loading and unloading device has at least the following beneficial effects: the sample loading and unloading device uses a tray positioning component to perform vertical positioning when the sample tray moves to its original position, effectively correcting the sample tray position deviation caused by excessive travel, ensuring the accurate positioning of the sample tray after injection, and improving the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0042] Figure 1A schematic diagram of the sample inlet / outlet device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the sample operation module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A bottom view of the medium sample running module;

[0045] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the pallet positioning component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] in:

[0048] Sample handling module 100, positioning module 200, sample tray 300, panel assembly 400.

[0049] First support base 101, second support base 102, guide component 103, pallet mounting platform 104, fixed base 105, first mating structure 106, first idler wheel assembly 107, second idler wheel assembly 108, third idler wheel assembly 109, motor 110, motor tensioning plate 111, motor fixing plate 112, synchronous belt 113, connector 114, origin sensor 115, origin sensing plate 116, end point sensing plate 117, end point sensor 118, pallet positioning assembly 120, origin positioning base 121, first positioning structure 122, second positioning structure 123, boss 201, top ball 202, suction plate 204, electromagnet 205, magnet mounting bracket 206. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0051] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0052] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4 ,in, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the sample inlet / outlet device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the sample operation module provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 for Figure 2A bottom view of the medium sample running module. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a pallet positioning component provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0053] In a first specific embodiment, the sample loading and unloading device provided in this application mainly includes a sample tray 300 and a sample running module 100. The sample running module 100 is used to load and transport the sample tray 300. The sample running module 100 includes a tray loading component, a tray transport component, and a tray positioning component 120. The tray loading component is used to load the sample tray 300. The tray transport component is connected to the tray loading component and is used to transport the tray loading component. The tray positioning component 120 is located on the movement path of the tray loading component and is provided with a first positioning structure 122. When the tray loading component moves to the origin position, the first positioning structure 122 positions the sample tray 300 in a vertically set position.

[0054] In laboratory automation systems, the loading and unloading of sample trays 300 is a critical step in the experimental process. However, existing manual sample loading methods are prone to problems such as sample trays 300 sinking due to their own weight or being subject to vibration, resulting in inaccurate positioning and potential failures in subsequent experimental operations. These issues not only affect the precise positioning of sample trays 300 but may also lead to the failure of subsequent experimental operations, reducing the overall performance and reliability of the laboratory automation system.

[0055] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a sample loading / unloading device, primarily comprising a sample tray 300 and a sample handling module 100. The sample handling module 100 is the core component for automatically loading and unloading the sample tray 300; its ingenious structural design effectively overcomes the shortcomings of existing technologies. Specifically, the sample handling module 100 includes a tray loading assembly, a tray transport assembly, and a tray positioning assembly 120. The tray loading assembly loads the sample tray 300, ensuring its stability and safety during transport. The tray transport assembly, connected to the tray loading assembly, is responsible for transporting the loaded sample tray 300 to a designated location. During transport, the sample tray 300 may be affected by various external forces, causing positional deviation. To ensure accurate positioning of the sample tray 300, the tray positioning assembly 120 is positioned along the movement path of the tray loading assembly. When the tray loading assembly returns to its origin, the first positioning structure 122 in the tray positioning assembly 120 vertically positions the sample tray 300 at a predetermined vertical position. This design effectively corrects the positional deviation of the sample tray 300 caused by excessive travel by vertically positioning the sample tray 300 at a critical location (origin point), thus ensuring the precise positioning of the sample tray 300 after sample injection. In this way, the sample loading / unloading device of this application not only improves the positioning accuracy of the sample tray 300 but also enhances the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system, providing a more efficient and precise solution for automated laboratory operations.

[0056] Based on the above structural and process descriptions, it can be seen that the sample loading and unloading device has at least the following beneficial effects: the sample loading and unloading device uses the tray positioning component 120 to perform vertical positioning when the sample tray 300 moves to the original position, effectively correcting the positional deviation of the sample tray 300 caused by excessive travel, ensuring the accurate positioning of the sample tray 300 after sample loading, and improving the reliability and stability of the laboratory automation system.

[0057] In one specific embodiment, the sample loading and unloading device is mounted on the frame. Specifically, the sample handling module 100 is mounted on the frame, such that the pallet transport assembly and the pallet positioning assembly 120 are fixed relative to the frame, while the pallet loading assembly is movable relative to the frame.

[0058] In some cases, the pallet loading assembly has two positions along its movement path: an origin position and an end position. When the pallet loading assembly is at the origin position, the sample tray 300 is in the sample inlet position; when the pallet loading assembly is at the end position, the sample tray 300 is in the sample outlet position. Since the sample tray 300 needs to cooperate with other equipment to perform grasping and other operations at the sample inlet position, a pallet positioning component 120 is specifically set at the origin position. The first positioning structure 122 corrects for any vertical offset of the pallet loading assembly and the sample tray 300 on it. This strict requirement does not apply to the sample outlet position.

[0059] Specifically, the correction of the first positioning structure 122 is a positioning adjustment for the vertical direction of the sample tray 300, that is, the Z-direction (height direction, or up and down direction, which is different from the front and back direction when the tray loading component moves).

[0060] In some embodiments, the tray positioning assembly 120 is further provided with a second positioning structure 123; when the tray loading assembly moves to the origin position, the second positioning structure 123 positions the sample tray 300 in a lateral setting position in the lateral direction.

[0061] Specifically, the correction of the second positioning structure 123 is a positioning adjustment for the sample tray 300 in the lateral direction, that is, the X direction (lateral, or left-right direction, which is different from the front-back direction when the tray loading component moves).

[0062] In this embodiment, the tray positioning assembly 120 includes not only a first positioning structure 122 for vertical positioning, but also a second positioning structure 123. When the tray loading assembly moves to the origin, the second positioning structure 123 positions the sample tray 300 laterally, positioning it in a laterally set position. This design further enhances the positioning accuracy of the sample tray 300 at the origin, ensuring that the sample tray 300 achieves a precise set position in both vertical and lateral directions, thereby better meeting the requirements for precise positioning of the sample tray 300 in laboratory automation systems.

[0063] It should be noted that this embodiment does not limit the structural form of the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123. For example, it can be a fixed structure that uses an inclined plane to adjust the position, or it can be other structures.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123 adopt a rotating structure; the rotation axis of the first positioning structure 122 is perpendicular to the vertical direction of the sample tray 300, and the rotation surface of the first positioning structure 122 contacts the vertical bottom of the tray loading assembly; the rotation axis of the second positioning structure 123 is perpendicular to the side direction of the sample tray 300, and the rotation surface of the second positioning structure 123 contacts the side portion of the tray loading assembly.

[0065] In this embodiment, both the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123 are rotating structures. The rotation axis of the first positioning structure 122 is perpendicular to the vertical direction of the sample tray 300, and its rotation surface contacts the vertical bottom of the tray loading assembly. This design allows the first positioning structure 122 to gradually contact the vertical bottom of the tray loading assembly as the tray loading assembly moves towards its origin, thereby achieving gradual adjustment and precise positioning of the vertical position of the sample tray 300. Similarly, the rotation axis of the second positioning structure 123 is perpendicular to the side of the sample tray 300, and its rotation surface contacts the side of the tray loading assembly. Through a similar gradual contact and adjustment process, precise positioning of the lateral position of the sample tray 300 is achieved. This rotating structure design not only effectively corrects possible positional deviations that may occur during the movement of the tray loading assembly, but also ensures that the sample tray 300 reaches the precise set position when at its origin.

[0066] In some embodiments, the rotating structure is a bearing.

[0067] In this embodiment, the rotating structure specifically takes the form of a bearing. As a highly efficient rotating element, the bearing enables low-friction rotational motion, thereby providing stable rotational support for the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123 in the pallet positioning assembly. When the pallet loading assembly moves to its origin position, the bearings in the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123 contact the vertical bottom and lateral sides of the pallet loading assembly, respectively. Through the rotational motion of the bearings, precise adjustment of the vertical and lateral positions of the sample pallet 300 is achieved. The use of bearings not only improves the stability and reliability of the positioning process but also reduces wear and energy loss, extending the service life of the device.

[0068] In some embodiments, the pallet positioning assembly 120 includes an origin positioning seat 121, on which a first positioning structure 122 and a second positioning structure 123 are provided.

[0069] In one specific embodiment, the origin positioning seat 121 is fixed on the frame. The origin positioning seat 121 is provided with adjustment holes. By adjusting the installation position of the origin positioning seat 121 on the frame, the positions of the first positioning structure 122 (bearing) and the second positioning structure 123 (bearing) can be finely adjusted.

[0070] In some embodiments, the number of first positioning structures 122 is multiple, and the multiple first positioning structures 122 are symmetrically arranged.

[0071] Specifically, the two first positioning structures 122 are symmetrically arranged on the origin positioning seat 121, and the Z-axis position of the pallet loading assembly and the sample pallet 300 on it is adjusted upward by the two first positioning structures 122.

[0072] In some embodiments, the number of second positioning structures 123 is multiple, and the multiple second positioning structures 123 are symmetrically arranged.

[0073] Specifically, the two second positioning structures 123 are symmetrically arranged on the origin positioning seat 121, and the X-direction position of the pallet loading assembly and the sample pallet 300 on it is adjusted to the right and left respectively by the two second positioning structures 123.

[0074] In one specific implementation, a guide 103 is provided on the frame. The guide 103 is fixed on the frame by a fixing seat 105. The two guides 103 are arranged symmetrically from left to right. The pallet loading assembly is slidably assembled with the guide 103, thereby realizing the movement of the pallet loading assembly relative to the frame.

[0075] In some embodiments, the sample loading and unloading device further includes: a panel assembly 400 connected to the pallet loading assembly, the panel assembly 400 having a first mating member; a positioning module 200 located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly, the positioning module 200 having a second mating member; when the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating member and the second mating member engage to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0077] In some embodiments, the sample loading and unloading device further includes: a panel assembly 400 connected to the pallet loading assembly, the panel assembly 400 having a first mating member; a positioning module 200 located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly, the positioning module 200 having a second mating member; when the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating member and the second mating member engage to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

[0078] In this embodiment, the sample loading / unloading device further includes a panel assembly 400 and a positioning module 200. The panel assembly 400 is connected to the tray loading assembly and is provided with a first mating component; the positioning module 200 is located on the movement path of the tray loading assembly and is provided with a second mating component. By pushing or pulling the panel assembly 400, the tray loading assembly can be moved along its movement path. When the tray loading assembly moves to its original position, the first and second mating components engage with each other, thereby locking the tray loading assembly at its original position. This locking mechanism ensures the stability of the tray loading assembly at the sample loading position, facilitating subsequent automated operations or other related operations.

[0079] In one specific implementation, the positioning module 200 is fixedly mounted on the frame.

[0080] In some embodiments, one of the first mating member and the second mating member includes a suction plate 204, and the other includes an electromagnet 205 that mates with the suction plate 204.

[0081] In this embodiment, the first mating component and the second mating component are engaged by electromagnetic attraction. In addition, they can also be engaged by snap-fit ​​or other methods.

[0082] Preferably, the first and second mating components are structured as follows: the suction plate 204 is disposed on the panel assembly 400, and the electromagnet 205 is disposed on the positioning module 200. By controlling the energization and de-energization of the electromagnet 205, the suction plate 204 and the electromagnet 205 can be engaged and disengaged. When the tray loading assembly moves to the origin position, the electromagnet 205 is energized, and the suction plate 204 engages with the electromagnet 205, thereby locking the tray loading assembly at the origin position and completing the sample injection; when unlocking is required, the electromagnet 205 is de-energized, the suction plate 204 separates from the electromagnet 205, and the tray loading assembly can leave the origin position and move towards the destination position for sampling. This design not only achieves precise positioning and locking of the tray loading assembly at the origin position, but also improves the convenience and automation of operation through electromagnetic control.

[0083] In some embodiments, the pallet loading assembly is provided with a first mating structure 106; the sample loading and unloading device further includes: a positioning module 200 located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly, the positioning module 200 being provided with a second mating structure; when the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure engage to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

[0084] In this embodiment, the tray loading assembly is provided with a first mating structure 106, and the sample loading / unloading device further includes a positioning module 200, which is located on the movement path of the tray loading assembly and is provided with a second mating structure. When the tray loading assembly moves to its original position, the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure cooperate with each other, thereby locking the tray loading assembly at its original position. This locking mechanism ensures the stability of the tray loading assembly at the sample loading position, facilitating subsequent automated operations or other related operations.

[0085] In one specific implementation, the positioning module 200 combines a first mating component and a second mating component, as well as a dual locking mechanism of the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure. Specifically, the first and second mating components operate on the principle of electromagnetic attraction, while the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure operate on the principle of snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0086] In some embodiments, one of the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure includes a boss 201, and the other includes a first groove that mates with the boss 201; one of the first mating structure 106 and the second mating structure includes a top bead 202, and the other includes a second groove that mates with the top bead 202, wherein the extending direction of the boss 201 is different from the extending direction of the top bead 202.

[0087] Preferably, the second mating structure of the positioning module 200 includes both a boss 201 and a top ball 202, while the first mating structure 106 of the tray loading assembly is provided with a first groove that mates with the boss 201 and a second groove that mates with the top ball 202.

[0088] In some cases, the extension direction of the boss 201 is the same as the movement direction of the pallet loading assembly, that is, the boss 201 extends back and forth. This allows the pallet loading assembly to be positioned in the left-right direction through the cooperation of the first groove and the boss 201 when the pallet loading assembly moves. The top ball 202 extends upward, exhibiting an upward convex state. This allows the pallet loading assembly to be positioned in the vertical and front-back directions through the cooperation of the second groove and the top ball 202, utilizing the constraint of the mating arc surface.

[0089] Specifically, when the pallet loading assembly moves to the origin, the boss 201 first enters the first groove, and as the boss 201 further engages with the first groove, the top bead 202 eventually engages with the second groove.

[0090] In one specific embodiment, the positioning module 200 includes two symmetrically arranged bosses 201, which are fixedly mounted on a frame. A magnet mounting bracket 206 is fixed to the two bosses 201, and an electromagnet 205 is mounted on the magnet mounting bracket 206.

[0091] In some embodiments, the pallet transport assembly includes: a motor 110; a timing belt 113, which is connected to the motor 110 and connected to the pallet loading assembly.

[0092] Optionally, the transmission components between the motor 110 and the synchronous belt 113 include a drive pulley, a first idler pulley assembly 107, a second idler pulley assembly 108, and a third idler pulley assembly 109. The output end of the motor 110 drives the drive pulley to rotate. The synchronous belt 113 is wound around the drive pulley and the first idler pulley assembly 107. The second idler pulley assembly 108 is located outside the synchronous belt 113, and the third idler pulley assembly 109 is located inside the synchronous belt 113. The second idler pulley assembly 108 and the third idler pulley assembly 109 tension the synchronous belt 113. The synchronous belt 113 moves under the drive of the drive pulley, thereby driving the pallet loading assembly to move.

[0093] In one specific embodiment, the motor 110 is fixed on the motor tensioning plate 111, the motor tensioning plate 111 is fixed on the motor fixing plate 112, and the motor fixing plate 112 is fixed on the frame.

[0094] In some embodiments, the pallet loading assembly includes: a pallet mounting platform 104; a first support 101 and a second support 102, symmetrically disposed on both sides of the pallet mounting platform 104.

[0095] In this embodiment, the pallet loading assembly includes a pallet clamping platform 104 and a first support base 101 and a second support base 102 symmetrically arranged on both sides thereon. The first support base 101 acts as the left support, and the second support base 102 acts as the right support. The sample pallet 300 is installed between the pallet clamping platform 104 and the first and second support bases 101 and 102, forming a stable support structure. This symmetrical design not only provides reliable support for the sample pallet 300 but also ensures its stability during transportation, preventing the sample pallet 300 from shifting or shaking due to external forces.

[0096] In one specific embodiment, the first support base 101 and the second support base 102 are slidably assembled with the guide member 103 on their inner sides, thereby realizing the movement of the pallet mounting table 104 relative to the frame. At least one of the first support base 101 and the second support base 102 is connected to the timing belt 113 via a connector 114. A first mating structure 106 is disposed at the bottom of the pallet mounting table 104.

[0097] In some embodiments, the sample running module 100 further includes an origin sensor 115 and an origin sensing plate 116, one of which is disposed on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the origin position.

[0098] Preferably, the origin sensing element 116 is fixed to one of the first support 101 and the second support 102, and the origin sensor 115 is fixed to the frame. This configuration enables the system to accurately sense whether the tray loading assembly has reached the origin position, thereby achieving accurate judgment and control of the sample tray 300 injection position.

[0099] In some embodiments, one of the endpoint sensor 118 and the endpoint sensing plate 117 is disposed on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the endpoint position.

[0100] Similarly, the endpoint sensor 117 is fixed to one of the first support 101 and the second support 102, and the endpoint sensor 118 is fixed to the frame. This configuration enables the system to accurately sense whether the tray loading assembly has reached the endpoint, thereby achieving accurate judgment and control of the sample tray 300's dispensing position. Through the cooperation of the origin sensor 115 and the origin sensor 116, and the endpoint sensor 118 and the endpoint sensor 117, the sample loading and unloading device can achieve precise positioning and control of the sample tray 300 during the sample loading and unloading process.

[0101] This application also provides a laboratory automation system, including the above-mentioned sample loading and unloading device.

[0102] The laboratory automation system should have all the beneficial technical effects of the aforementioned sample entry and exit devices, which will not be elaborated here.

[0103] When sample injection is required, the motor 110 and drive wheel of the sample running module 100 use the synchronous belt 113 transmission principle to move the tray mounting stage 104 along the guide rail or guide rail 103 until the origin sensing plate 116 reaches the origin sensor 115. At this time, the suction plate 204 on the panel assembly 400 and the electromagnet 205 are energized and attracted.

[0104] When a sample needs to be dispensed, the suction plate 204 on the panel assembly 400 separates from the electromagnet 205, and the motor 110 and the drive wheel of the sample running module 100 reverse. Using the transmission principle of the synchronous belt 113, the tray mounting table 104 moves in the opposite direction along the guide rail or guide rail and other guide components 103 until the positioning sensor 117 reaches the positioning sensor 118.

[0105] In addition, the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123 are fixed on the original positioning seat 121. The original positioning seat 121 of the positioning module 200 is provided with adjustment holes, which can finely adjust the positions of the first positioning structure 122 and the second positioning structure 123, respectively positioning the tray mounting table 104 and the sample tray 300 on it at the origin position, effectively solving the problems of swaying and inaccurate positioning caused by excessive stroke, sinking due to its own weight and vibration.

[0106] It should be noted that many of the components mentioned in this application are general standard parts or components known to those skilled in the art, and their structure and principle can be learned by those skilled in the art through technical manuals or through conventional experimental methods.

[0107] It should be noted that in this specification, relational terms such as first and second are used only to distinguish one entity from several other entities, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities.

[0108] The sample entry / exit device and laboratory automation system provided in this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to this application without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A sample input / output device, characterized in that, include: Sample tray; A sample handling module is used to load and transport the sample tray; The sample operation module includes: A tray loading assembly for loading the sample tray; A pallet transport assembly is connected to the pallet loading assembly, and the pallet transport assembly is used to transport the pallet loading assembly; A pallet positioning component is located on the movement path of the pallet loading component. The pallet positioning component is provided with a first positioning structure. When the pallet loading component moves to the original position, the first positioning structure positions the sample pallet at a vertically set position.

2. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tray positioning component is further provided with a second positioning structure; when the tray loading component moves to the original position, the second positioning structure positions the sample tray in a lateral setting position in the lateral direction.

3. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first positioning structure and the second positioning structure adopt a rotating structure; The rotation axis of the first positioning structure is perpendicular to the vertical of the sample tray, and the rotation surface of the first positioning structure is in contact with the vertical bottom of the tray loading assembly; The rotation axis of the second positioning structure is perpendicular to the side of the sample tray, and the rotation surface of the second positioning structure is in contact with the side of the tray loading assembly.

4. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating structure is a bearing; and / or, The pallet positioning assembly includes an origin positioning seat, on which the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are disposed; and / or, The number of the first positioning structures is multiple, and the multiple first positioning structures are symmetrically arranged; and / or, The number of the second positioning structures is multiple, and the multiple second positioning structures are symmetrically arranged.

5. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A panel assembly connected to the tray loading assembly, the panel assembly being provided with a first mating member; A positioning module is located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly. The positioning module is provided with a second mating component. When the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating component and the second mating component cooperate to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

6. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, One of the first mating component and the second mating component includes a suction plate, and the other includes an electromagnet that mates with the suction plate.

7. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tray loading assembly is provided with a first mating structure; the sample loading / unloading device further includes: A positioning module is located on the movement path of the pallet loading assembly. The positioning module is provided with a second mating structure. When the pallet loading assembly moves to the original position, the first mating structure and the second mating structure cooperate to lock the pallet loading assembly at the original position.

8. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 7, characterized in that, One of the first mating structure and the second mating structure includes a boss, and the other includes a first groove that mates with the boss; One of the first mating structure and the second mating structure includes a top bead, and the other includes a second groove that mates with the top bead. The extension direction of the boss is different from the extension direction of the top bead.

9. The sample inlet / outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pallet transport assembly includes: Electric motor; A timing belt is connected to the motor drive, and the timing belt is connected to the pallet loading assembly; And / or, The pallet loading assembly includes: Pallet loading station; The first support base and the second support base are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the tray mounting platform; And / or, The sample operation module also includes: An origin sensor and an origin sensing element, one of which is disposed on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the origin position; and / or, An endpoint sensor and an endpoint sensing element, one of which is located on the pallet loading assembly, and the other is used to output a signal when the pallet loading assembly moves to the endpoint position.

10. A laboratory automation system, characterized in that, Includes the sample entry / exit device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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