Method and system for detecting the orientation of a cassette.

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment relates to an automated sample processing system including a cassette having an upper component and a lower component, the upper and lower components having a sufficient opacity difference detectable by a sensor. An emitter is configured to emit a signal, which is configured to pass laterally through (or diffused by) one of the components of the cassette and be received by a sensor. The sensor is configured to communicate with signal processing logic configured to interpret the signal to indicate the orientation of the cassette. A method for detecting the orientation of the cassette in the automated sample processing system is also disclosed.

Description

Background Art

[0001] <Cross - reference to related applications> This application claims the priority and benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 509,141, filed on June 20, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] In many industries, the measurement of the number or presence of microorganisms in a sample (often referred to as microbial counting or detection) is required. One method of measuring the number of microorganisms in a sample (or detecting the presence of microorganisms) involves exposing a filter membrane to the sample to capture the microorganisms in the sample on the membrane, culturing the microorganisms captured on the membrane, and counting, if necessary, the number of colonies that grow during the culture.

[0003] To protect the microbial culture during culturing and / or analysis, a membrane can be provided within a cassette. The cassette can also facilitate automated processing by holding and organizing the sample as it progresses through the various stages of processing. As an example of an automated sample processing system, the GROWTH DIRECT system manufactured by RAPID MICRO BIOSYSTEMS TM of Lowell, Massachusetts TM is mentioned.

[0004] In an automated sample analysis system, an operator can load cassettes into a carousel that can analyze multiple cassettes. The system removes the cassettes from the carousel and performs an analysis of the samples within the cassettes. In some automated sample analyses, the illuminated sample is made to fluoresce without destroying the sample. By combining digital image processing technology and advanced software algorithms, these systems can detect and count the autofluorescence of growing microorganisms

[0005] The cassette containing the sample has an optically transparent or transparent lid through which light can pass. The bottom of the cassette is usually opaque to block background light.

[0006] A common mistake when using automated cassette processing systems is for operators to load the cassette into the system with the transparent lid facing downwards. This is considered upside down. This is a relatively common mistake because traditional manual incubation is often performed with the transparent lid facing downwards during incubation, and technicians are relying on outdated manual practices. Insufficient operator training may also be a factor. If the cassette is loaded upside down, the system cannot image the sample inside the cassette, and the operator must manually flip the cassette before starting automated processing. This can lead to longer sample analysis times, sample loss, delays in processing other samples, and reduced system accuracy. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] An exemplary embodiment provides a sensor system for use in an automated sample processing system. This sensor system implements a unique technique for detecting the orientation of each cassette before each cassette is removed from the carousel, loaded into an incubator, and / or imaged. Software logic monitors sensors indicating the orientation of each cassette before the cassette is loaded into the incubator. If the sensors detect that a cassette is upside down, the software pauses the loading process, allowing the cassette orientation to be corrected before resuming. The cassette orientation can be corrected manually by the operator or automatically by the automated sample processing system. This prevents late-process malfunctions that could lead to sample loss or user dissatisfaction.

[0008] The disclosed automated sample processing system comprises a cassette having an upper component and a lower component, the upper and lower components having an opacity difference detectable by a sensor. The system also comprises a carousel having a carousel base and at least one cassette column, each cassette column containing at least one cassette. A cassette elevator is configured to raise and lower the carousel base vertically. An emitter is configured to emit a signal, which passes laterally through the upper component of the cassette and is received by a sensor. The sensor is configured to transmit the signal to software logic on a computer, which is configured to interpret the signal and determine the orientation of the cassette.

[0009] A method for detecting the orientation of a cassette in an automated sample processing system is also disclosed. The disclosed method comprises: loading a cassette having an upper component and a lower component into a cassette column of a carousel, wherein the upper component and the lower component are a combination of a cassette lid and a cassette base having a sufficient opacity difference detectable by a sensor; raising the carousel base of the carousel using an elevator; transmitting a signal from an emitter; passing the signal laterally through the upper component of the cassette; receiving the signal by a sensor; transmitting the signal result to software on a computer; and displaying the orientation of the cassette on a monitor connected to the computer. If the cassette lid is above the cassette base, the method may further comprise the step of loading the cassette into an incubator based on a robust signal passing laterally through the cassette lid. If the cassette base is above the cassette lid, the method may further comprise the step of stopping the loading of the cassette into the incubator based on a non-robust signal passing laterally through the cassette base. In this case, the method may further include resuming the loading of the cassette into the incubator when the orientation of the cassette is corrected automatically by the automated sample processing system or manually by the operator. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] An example of an automated sample analysis system according to the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0011] [Figure 2A] An example of a poorly loaded cassette carousel according to the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0012] [Figure 2B] An example of a properly loaded cassette carousel, in which each cassette is in the loading position, according to the embodiments described herein, is shown.

[0013] [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of an automated sample processing system according to the embodiments described herein.

[0014] [Figure 4] Examples of cassette components according to embodiments described herein are shown.

[0015] [Figure 5] This specification describes one example of a method for loading a cassette into an incubator using an automated sample processing system in which the cassette is in the correct loading position.

[0016] [Figure 6] This document describes one example of a method for loading a cassette into an incubator using an automated sample processing system when the cassette is not in the correct loading position, according to the embodiments described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Automated sample analysis system Figure 1 shows an example of an automated sample analysis system 100 according to an embodiment described herein. The analysis system 100 comprises a microbial colony 102, a lamp 104 emitting light 106, a charge-coupled device (CCD) chip 108, a plurality of photosensitive pixels 110, a cassette 112, a cassette base 114, a cassette lid 116, a growth medium 118, and microbial fluorescence 120.

[0018] In some embodiments, the CCD chip 108 includes photosensitive pixels 110 for capturing light emitted from microorganisms 102.

[0019] In some embodiments, each cassette 112 includes a cassette base 114 and a cassette lid 116. In some embodiments, the cassette base 114 contains a growth medium 118. In some embodiments, the growth medium 118 contains microbial colonies 102. In some embodiments, the microbial colonies 102 within the growth medium 118 are exposed to lamp light 106 generated by a lamp 104. In some embodiments, the microbes within the microbial colonies 102 generate microbial fluorescence 120. In some embodiments, the microbial fluorescence 120 is captured by the photosensitive pixels 110 of a CCD chip 108.

[0020] In some embodiments, the analysis system 100 includes one or more lamps 104. In some embodiments, at least one lamp is an incandescent lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a halogen lamp, a high-intensity discharge (HID) lamp, a neon lamp, a laser lamp, a visible light lamp, an ultraviolet (UV) lamp, an infrared (IR) lamp, or any other type of light source capable of generating light. In some embodiments, sunlight generates light for the analysis system 100.

[0021] In some embodiments, the light 106 generated by the lamp 104 is incandescent light, fluorescent light, halogen lamp light, high-intensity discharge (HID) lamp light, neon lamp light, laser lamp light, visible light, ultraviolet (UV) light, infrared (IR) light, or any other type of light.

[0022] In some embodiments, the analysis system 100 includes at least one cassette 112. In some embodiments, the growth medium 118 contains one type of microbial colony 102. In some embodiments, the growth medium 118 contains two or more types of microbial colonies 102. The microbial colonies 102 may generate microbial fluorescence 120 when exposed to light 106. In some embodiments, different types of microbial colonies 102 may be distinguished by different types of microbial fluorescence 120 emitted by each.

[0023] In some embodiments, the analysis system 100 includes one or more CCD chips 108. The CCD chip 108 can include one or more photosensitive pixels 110. The photosensitive pixel 110 can convert the microbial fluorescence 120 into an electrical signal. In some embodiments, the electrical signal is interpreted by logic on the analysis system 100 to indicate the number of microbial colonies 102 in the growth medium 118. In some embodiments, an image sensor other than the CCD chip 108 can be used to capture the fluorescence 120 of the microorganism. In some embodiments, the image sensor is a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, a specific type of CMOS image sensor (such as an active pixel sensor CMOS), a scientific CMOS (sCMOS) image sensor, an indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) image sensor, another type of CCD chip (such as an electron-multiplying CCD chip), or any other type of sensor capable of imaging.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cassette lid 116 of the cassette 112 is substantially transparent. The cassette lid 116 is considered to be substantially transparent if the light emitted from the selected light source passes through the cassette lid 116 from one side to the other side and can still be detected by the sensor after the light passes through the cassette lid 116 horizontally. The substantially transparent cassette lid 116 can allow the lamp light 106 to pass through the upper part of the cassette lid 116 to illuminate the microbial colonies, and / or maintain the fluorescence 120 in a recognizable state by the photosensitive pixel 110 after passing through the cassette lid 116. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the cassette lid 116 can have optical properties different from those of the side surface of the cassette lid 116. The upper surface is configured to allow the light from the lamp 104 and the fluorescence 120 to pass through, while the side surface can be configured to allow the light from the light source attached to the side surface to pass through the cassette lid 116 and be detectable by the sensor attached to the side surface. The transparency of the upper surface is selected based on the type of lamp 104 used, and the transparency of the side surface can be selected based on the type or function of the light source attached to the side surface and / or the sensor attached to the side surface.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cassette base 114 of the cassette 112 is substantially opaque. The cassette base is considered substantially opaque if, although light from a side-mounted light source is detectable by a side-mounted sensor as it passes through the cassette lid 116, it is not detected by the side-mounted sensor as it passes through the cassette base 114. A substantially opaque cassette base 114 can also block background light from passing through the body of the cassette base 114.

[0026] Automated sample processing system Figure 2A shows an example of an improperly loaded carousel 200 according to an embodiment described herein. In some embodiments, the improperly loaded carousel 200 comprises a cassette 204 having a cassette base 206 and a cassette lid 208, a cassette column 210, a carousel handle 212, a carousel base 214, a carousel stem 216, a column post 218, a column support 220, and a column opening 222.

[0027] In some embodiments, the top cassette 204 of each cassette row 210 of an improperly loaded carousel 200 (the top cassette 204 of each cassette row 210) is loaded upside down so that the cassette base 206 is above the cassette lid 208. Exemplary embodiments can detect the configuration of cassettes in any combination or order, even if some, all, or none of the cassettes are loaded upside down.

[0028] In some embodiments, the lower end of the carousel stem 216 is coupled to the upper surface of the carousel base 214. In some embodiments, the upper end of the carousel stem 216 is coupled to the carousel handle 212. In some embodiments, each cassette column 210 is coupled to the carousel base 214.

[0029] In some embodiments, the carousel stem 216 is substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the carousel stem 216 is substantially rectangular or any shape that can be connected to the carousel base 214 and the carousel handle 212.

[0030] In some embodiments, the carousel handle 212 is T-shaped. In some embodiments, the carousel handle 212 is straight, D-shaped, knob-shaped, ring-shaped, or any shape that can be gripped when lifting a carousel 200 that has been mistakenly loaded. In some embodiments, the lateral end of the carousel handle 212 extends vertically and is connected to the carousel base 214, thereby forming an opening between the vertically extended lateral end of the carousel handle 212 and the carousel stem 216.

[0031] In some embodiments, the carousel handle 212 is located in the center of the improperly loaded carousel 200 and surrounded by at least one cassette column 210. In some embodiments, the carousel handle 212 is not located in the center of the improperly loaded carousel 200.

[0032] In some embodiments, the carousel base 214 is substantially circular. In some embodiments, the carousel base 214 is substantially square, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, or any other shape capable of holding at least one cassette column 210.

[0033] Each cassette column 210 may comprise zero or more column posts 218 and zero or more column supports 220. In some embodiments, the column supports 220 comprise zero or more column openings 222. The column openings 222 may be evenly spaced or unevenly spaced. The column openings 222 may be any suitable shape, such as elliptical, square, rectangular, circular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or any other suitable shape.

[0034] In some embodiments, the column support 220 is substantially concave relative to the carousel stem 216. In some embodiments, the column support 220 is substantially straight. In some embodiments, the column support 220 is substantially convex relative to the carousel stem 216.

[0035] In some embodiments, each column post 218 is positioned adjacent to the inside of the carousel stem 216, and the column support 220 is positioned outside with its outer edge bonded to the upper perimeter of the carousel base 214. In some embodiments, each column post 218 is positioned outside with its outer edge bonded to the upper edge of the carousel base 214, and the column support 220 is positioned inside, adjacent to the carousel stem 216.

[0036] In some embodiments, each cassette column 210 shares at least one column post 218 with an adjacent cassette column 210. In some embodiments, each cassette column 210 shares both column posts 218 with an adjacent cassette column 210. In some embodiments, each cassette column 210 has its own column post 218. In some embodiments, the lateral end of the carousel handle 212 is coupled to the column post 218.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the carousel 200 comprises six cassette columns 210, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Each cassette column 210 can accommodate zero or more cassettes 112 (the specific number of cassettes depends on the size of the carousel 200 and the size of the cassettes 112).

[0038] Figure 2B shows an example of a properly loaded carousel 202, in which each cassette 204 is in the loaded position, according to the embodiments described herein. The loaded position is the position where the cassette lid 208 is above the cassette base 206. In some embodiments, a poorly loaded carousel 200 consists of a cassette 204, a cassette base 206, a cassette lid 208, a cassette column 210, a carousel handle 212 (shown in Figure 2A), a carousel base 214, a column carousel stem 216 (shown in Figure 2A), a column post 218, a column support 220, and a column opening 222.

[0039] In some embodiments, all cassettes 204 in each cassette column 210 are in the loaded position, and the cassette lid 208 is positioned above the cassette base 206. In some embodiments, one or more cassettes 204 in one or more cassette columns 210 are loaded with the correct side facing up. In some embodiments, the cassette 204 at the top of each cassette column 210 is loaded with the correct side facing up.

[0040] Figure 3 shows a block diagram of an automated sample processing system 300 according to an embodiment described herein. The system comprises two cassettes 302 as shown and described in Figures 1 to 4, each cassette 302 comprising a cassette base 304 and a cassette lid 306 as shown and described in Figures 1 to 4, a cassette column 308 comprising a carousel base 310 as shown and described in Figures 2A to 2B, and further comprising a carousel elevator 312, a sensor 314, an emitter 316, and a signal 318.

[0041] In some embodiments, the cassette column 308 comprises one cassette 302. In some embodiments, the cassette column 308 comprises two or more cassettes 302. In some embodiments, the cassette column 308 does not have a cassette 302.

[0042] In some embodiments, emitter 316 is a photoluminescent emitter. In some embodiments, emitter 316 is a laser emitter. In some embodiments, emitter 316 is an incandescent light emitter, a fluorescent light emitter, an LED light emitter, a halogen light emitter, a high-intensity discharge (HID) light emitter, a neon light emitter, a visible light emitter, an ultraviolet (UV) light emitter, an infrared (IR) light emitter, or any other type of light emitter capable of generating light. In some embodiments, the sun is emitter 316. In some embodiments, emitter 316 is any type of thermal emitter. In some embodiments, emitter 316 is any type of device capable of generating any signal, including but not limited to analog signal emitters, digital signal emitters, electromagnetic signal emitters, audio signal emitters, video signal emitters, or optical signal emitters.

[0043] In some embodiments, signal 318 is light. In some embodiments, signal 318 is a laser. In some embodiments, signal 318 is incandescent light, fluorescent light, LED light, halogen light, high-intensity (HID) light, neon light, visible light, ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), or any other type of light. In some embodiments, signal 318 is sunlight. In some embodiments, signal 318 is any type of heat. In some embodiments, signal 318 is any form of notification generated by an emitter and received by a sensor, including but not limited to analog signals, digital signals, electromagnetic signals, audio signals, video signals, motion signals, or optical signals.

[0044] In some embodiments, sensor 314 is a light sensor. In some embodiments, sensor 314 is a laser sensor. In some embodiments, sensor 314 is an incandescent light sensor, a fluorescent light sensor, an LED sensor, a halogen light sensor, a high-intensity discharge (HID) light sensor, a neon light sensor, a visible light sensor, an ultraviolet (UV) light sensor, an infrared (IR) light sensor, or any other type of sensor capable of receiving light. In some embodiments, sensor 314 is a solar panel. In some embodiments, sensor 314 is any type of heat receiver. In some embodiments, sensor 314 is any device capable of receiving any signal, including but not limited to analog signal sensors, digital signal sensors, electromagnetic signal sensors, audio signal sensors, video signal sensors, motion sensors, or optical signal sensors.

[0045] In some embodiments, a visual system is used to analyze features specific to the top or bottom of the cassette to determine its orientation. In some embodiments, the visual system can detect features such as: the physical shape of the cassette; reference marks embedded in the cassette or affixed by a printer or label; barcodes etched, printed, or labeled on the cassette; alphanumeric text etched, printed, or labeled on the cassette; or other marks that uniquely indicate whether the top or bottom of the cassette is facing upwards.

[0046] In some embodiments, the carousel elevator 312 is a device that can raise and lower the carousel base 310 longitudinally. In some embodiments, the carousel elevator 312 raises the carousel base 310 longitudinally so that the cassette 302 located at the top of the cassette column 308 is in the loading position. In the loading position, the cassette 302 is positioned so that a signal 318 generated by the emitter 316 can pass through the cassette lid 306, and the signal 318 is received by the sensor 314 without being interrupted.

[0047] In some embodiments, when the cassette 302 is in the loaded position above the cassette column 308, the signal 318 is passed through a substantially transparent cassette lid 306, allowing most of the signal 318 to pass through, so that the signal 318 is passed from the emitter 316 to the sensor 314 with high intensity. In some embodiments, when the cassette 302 is upside down and a substantially opaque cassette base 304 is positioned above the substantially transparent cassette lid 306 (as shown in Figure 2A), the signal 318 does not pass through the substantially opaque cassette base 304, resulting in a significant reduction or complete loss of signal detection.

[0048] In some embodiments, at the loading position, the signal 318 passes through the central latitude axis of the cassette lid 306. In some embodiments, at the loading position, the signal 318 passes through the upper latitude half of the cassette lid 306 (i.e., between the central latitude axis of the cassette lid 306 and the top surface of the cassette lid 306). In some embodiments, at the loading position, the signal 318 passes through the lower latitude half of the cassette lid 306 (i.e., between the central latitude axis of the cassette lid 306 and the central latitude axis of the cassette 302). In some embodiments, at the loading position, the signal 318 passes through the cassette lid 306 from the upper latitude half to the lower latitude half of the cassette lid 306. In some embodiments, at the loading position, the signal 318 passes through the cassette lid 306 from the lower latitude half to the upper latitude half of the cassette lid 306.

[0049] In some embodiments, the emitter 316 and sensor 314 are positioned such that the signal 318 passes over the uppermost component of the cassette 302 (i.e., a component located above other components). In some embodiments, in the loaded position, the signal 318 passes horizontally over the cassette lid 306, with the emitter 316 and sensor 314 positioned at the same lateral height relative to each other. In some embodiments, in the loaded position, the signal 318 passes over the cassette lid 306 at an angle such that the emitter 316 is positioned laterally above the sensor 314. In some embodiments, in the loaded position, the signal 318 passes over the cassette lid 306 at an angle such that the emitter 316 is positioned laterally below the sensor 314.

[0050] While embodiments are shown in which emitter 316 signals to the upper component of cassette 302, it is also possible that emitter 316 signals to the lower component of cassette 302. For example, if emitter 316 is positioned to project a signal to the bottom of the cassette, the system may interpret the absence (or attenuation) of a signal as indicating that the cassette is oriented correctly. If the sensor detects an unattenuated or strong signal, it may indicate that the cassette is upside down.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sensor and emitter do not need to be located on opposite sides of the cassette. For example, in some examples, the emitter may radiate a signal (such as light) toward an upper component made of a signal-diffusing material. The lower component may not be able to diffuse the signal, or may diffuse it to a different degree (so that the difference can be identified based on the sensor signal). The sensor may be located adjacent to the emitter, or elsewhere on the circumference of the cassette to record whether it is receiving a diffused or undiffused signal from the upper component.

[0052] Furthermore, while exemplary embodiments are generally described in relation to signals representing light, the present invention is not limited thereto. Other types of signals may also be used. Any type of signal transmitted from an emitter, passing through a cassette, and then received by a sensor is suitable. The terms transparent and opaque generally refer to materials that have the property of relaying, transmitting, or manipulating a signal to form a first configuration and a second configuration, respectively. The first configuration is the state in which the signal is present, and the second configuration is the state in which the signal is absent. In other embodiments, the first configuration may present the signal to the sensor in an unmanipulated configuration, and the second configuration may present the signal to the sensor in a manipulated configuration (e.g., filtering, attenuation, enhancement, supplementation, different properties, etc.), or vice versa.

[0053] In some embodiments, the sensor interprets the signal emitted by the emitter (as a result of passing through either the cassette lid 306 or the cassette base 304) and transmits the result to signal processing logic housed on a computer. In some embodiments, if the sensor receives a robust signal, the signal processing logic displays a positive result on a monitor or display via the computer (or a negative result if the signal processing logic does not receive a robust signal or receives a signal indicating the cassette is upside down). In some embodiments, once the signal processing logic receives a positive result, the cassette is loaded into an incubator or imaging system configured to capture an image of the inside of the cassette through the top surface of the upper component of the cassette. In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by an automated sample processing system (e.g., using a robotic arm) and loaded into the incubator. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by an operator and loaded into the incubator.

[0054] In some embodiments, if the sensor does not receive a robust signal, the signal processing logic displays a negative result on the monitor via the computer. In some embodiments, a prominent visual indicator and message are displayed on the monitor to notify the operator of a problem with the cassette orientation. In some embodiments, simultaneously with or instead of the visual indicator, the computer transmits an electronic notification message to a pre-configured address to alert an operator who may be in a remote location.

[0055] In some embodiments, the cassette is not loaded into the incubator. In some embodiments, if the orientation of the cassette is not corrected, loading the cassette into the incubator is stopped until the orientation is corrected by an operator or an automated sample processing system.

[0056] In some embodiments, the orientation of the cassette is corrected. In some embodiments, the orientation of the cassette is corrected manually by an operator. In some embodiments, the automated sample processing system may have a function to automatically invert the cassette to the correct orientation (e.g., by using a robotic arm). In some embodiments, the cassette is loaded into an incubator or imaging system. In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by a robotic arm and loaded into an incubator or imaging system. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by an operator and loaded into an incubator or imaging system.

[0057] Figure 4 shows an example of a cassette component according to an embodiment described herein. The cassette 400 comprises a cassette lid 402 and a cassette base 404. In this example, the cassette lid 402 and the cassette base 404 are shown in their state before being joined together.

[0058] In some embodiments, any transparent plastic is useful for the purpose of a substantially transparent cassette lid 402 of the cassette 400. In some embodiments, the cassette lid 402 may be made from an optically transparent, non-fluorescent plastic. When detecting an inverted cassette 400, the cassette cover 402 can be made from any plastic that can allow a sufficient amount of light (or other form of signal) to pass through for the purpose of sensor analysis. In some embodiments, any material such as glass, acrylic, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ceramic, or quartz is suitable for making the cassette lid 402, provided that it can allow a sufficient amount of light (or other form of signal) to pass through for the purpose of analysis.

[0059] In some embodiments, “transparent” means transmitting at least 85% of light, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In practice, the definition of a “transparent” cassette lid 306 may depend on the photodetection capability of the sensor 314 (shown in Figure 3) used in the automated sample processing system. That is, “transparent” means a degree of transparency that does not attenuate the optical properties of the cassette 400 beyond the point at which the sensor 314 (shown in Figure 3) of the automated sample processing system can obtain an acceptable reading during sample processing. Alternatively, the cassette lid 402 can be considered “transparent” if its opacity is sufficiently different from the opacity of the cassette base 404 of the cassette 400, and the emitter 316 / sensor 314 pair of this embodiment (shown in Figure 3) can detect that difference.

[0060] In some embodiments, any opaque plastic is useful for the purpose of a substantially opaque cassette base 404 of the cassette 400. In some embodiments, the cassette base 404 may be made from an optically opaque, non-fluorescent plastic. When detecting an inverted cassette 400, any plastic is suitable as long as it blocks the passage of a sufficient amount of light for the purpose of analysis. In some embodiments, any material such as metal, wood, brick, concrete, ceramic, or rubber is suitable for making the cassette base 404 as long as it blocks the passage of a sufficient amount of light for the purpose of analysis.

[0061] In some embodiments, “opaque” means blocking the passage of at least 85% of light, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In practice, the definition of an “opaque” cassette base 404 is determined by the photodetection capability of the sensor 314 (shown in Figure 3) used in the automated sample processing system. That is, “opaque” means an opacity such that the sensor 314 (shown in Figure 3) of the automated sample processing system does not attenuate the optical properties of the cassette 400 beyond the point at which it can obtain an acceptable reading during sample processing. Alternatively, the cassette base 404 is considered “opaque” if its opacity is sufficiently different from that of the cassette lid 402, and the emitter 316 / sensor 314 pair (shown in Figure 3) of this embodiment can detect that difference. The emitted signal 318 (shown in Figure 3) should be sufficiently attenuated by the plastic of the cassette base 404, and as a result, the reading of the sensor 314 (shown in Figure 3) will be sufficiently different from the reading of the less opaque plastic of the cassette lid 402.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cassette lid 402 and cassette base 404 of the cassette 400 do not actually need to be completely transparent and completely opaque, respectively. In some embodiments, the cassette lid 402 and cassette base 404 have a sufficient rate of change in signal intensity (shown in Figure 3) that can penetrate the material, enabling robust detection. In some embodiments, the sensor placement and calibration (shown in Figure 3) are made such that the signal received through the more transparent portion of the cassette 400 (cassette lid 402) (shown in Figure 3) is significantly different from the signal received through the more opaque portion of the cassette 400 (cassette base 404) (shown in Figure 3). This difference in signal values ​​allows the software of an automated sample processing system mounted on a computer to determine whether the transparent portion or the opaque portion of the cassette is facing upwards. This information is used to determine whether the cassette is upside down.

[0063] Automatic sample processing method In some embodiments, methods for detecting the orientation of each cassette using an automated sample processing system before each cassette is picked up from a carousel and loaded into an incubator are described herein. In some embodiments, the method for detecting the orientation of a cassette in an automated sample processing system comprises: loading a cassette having an upper component and a lower component into a cassette row of a carousel, wherein the upper component and the lower component are a combination of a cassette lid and a cassette base having a sufficient opacity delta detectable by a sensor; raising the carousel base of the carousel using an elevator; transmitting a signal from an emitter; passing the signal laterally across the upper component of the cassette; receiving the signal by a sensor; transmitting the result of the signal to software on a computer; and indicating the orientation of the cassette on a monitor connected to the computer. If the cassette lid is above the cassette base, the method may further include loading the cassette into an incubator as a result of a strong signal passing laterally across the cassette lid. If the cassette base is above the cassette lid, the method may further include a step of stopping the loading of the cassette into the incubator based on a non-robust signal passing laterally across the cassette base. In this case, the method may further include a step of resuming the loading of the cassette into the incubator when the orientation of the cassette is automatically corrected by an automated sample processing system or manually corrected by an operator.

[0064] Figure 5 shows an example of how to load a cassette into an incubator or image processing system using an automated sample processing system in which the cassette is in the correct loading position, according to embodiments described herein. While the exemplary routines illustrate a specific sequence of operations, the sequence can be modified without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, some of the operations shown can be performed in parallel or in different sequences, to the extent that this does not significantly affect the functionality of the routine. In other examples, different components of the exemplary device or system implementing the routine may perform functions substantially simultaneously or in a specific sequence.

[0065] In step 502, the cassette (shown in Figure 2B) is placed in the cassette column (shown in Figure 2B) of the carousel (shown in Figure 2B) in the loading position. In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically placed in the cassette column using a robotic arm. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually placed in the cassette column by an operator.

[0066] In step 504, the elevator (shown in Figure 3) raises the carousel base (shown in Figure 2B).

[0067] In step 506, the signal (shown in Figure 3) is emitted from the emitter (shown in Figure 3).

[0068] In step 508, the signal passes through the cassette lid (see Figure 2B). In some embodiments, before the cassette is removed from the carousel and loaded into an incubator (not shown), the automated sample processing system uses an emitter / sensor pair (see Figure 3) to send and receive signals passing through the cassette lid (see Figure 3). In some embodiments, the cassette lid and the cassette base (shown in Figure 3) have a sufficient difference in signal strength that can be transmitted through the material.

[0069] In step 510, a signal is received by a sensor (shown in Figure 3). In some embodiments, the cassette lid allows for robust detection of the signal, while the cassette base does not. This difference in signal values ​​allows the automated sample processing system to determine whether the transparent or opaque portion of the cassette is facing upwards. This information is used to determine whether the cassette is upside down. In this embodiment, the cassette lid is facing upwards.

[0070] In step 512, the sensor transmits a positive result to software (not shown) on a computer. In some embodiments, a robust detection result of a signal indicating that the transparent portion of the cassette is above the opaque portion is transmitted to the software via the sensor. The cassette lid 402 and the cassette base 404 have a sufficient difference in signal intensity that can be transmitted through the material, enabling robust detection.

[0071] In step 514, the software displays a positive result on a monitor via a computer. In some embodiments, the monitor is viewed by an operator.

[0072] In step 516, the cassette is loaded into an incubator or image processing system. In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by a robotic arm and loaded into an incubator or image processing system. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by an operator and loaded into an incubator or image processing system.

[0073] Figure 6 shows an example of a method, according to embodiments described herein, for loading a cassette into an incubator or image processing system using an automated sample processing system when the cassette is not in the correct loading position. While the exemplary routines illustrate a specific sequence of operations, that sequence can be modified without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, some of the operations shown can be performed in parallel or in different sequences, to the extent that this does not significantly affect the functionality of the routine. In other examples, different components of the exemplary device or system implementing the routine may perform functions substantially simultaneously or in specific sequences.

[0074] In step 602, the cassette (shown in Figure 2A) is placed in the cassette column (shown in Figure 2A) of the carousel shown in Figure 2A, in a non-loaded position (i.e., the cassette is upside down). In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically placed in the cassette column using a robotic arm. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually placed in the cassette column by an operator.

[0075] In step 604, the elevator (shown in Figure 3) raises the carousel base (shown in Figure 2A).

[0076] In step 606, the signal (shown in Figure 3) is emitted from the emitter (shown in Figure 3).

[0077] In step 608, the signal passes through the cassette base (see Figure 2A). In some embodiments, before the cassette is removed from the carousel and loaded into an incubator (not shown), the automated sample processing system uses an emitter / sensor pair (see Figure 3) to send and receive a signal passing through the cassette lid (see Figure 3). In some embodiments, for example in step 608, the cassette is not properly loaded and the cassette base is positioned above the cassette lid. In some embodiments, the cassette lid and the cassette base (shown in Figure 3) have a sufficient difference in signal intensity to penetrate the material.

[0078] In step 610, a signal is received by the sensor. In some embodiments, robust detection of the signal is not possible at the cassette base, while robust detection is possible at the cassette lid. This difference in signal values ​​allows the automated sample processing system to determine whether the transparent or opaque side of the cassette is facing upwards. This information is used to determine whether the cassette is upside down. In this embodiment, the cassette base is facing the correct side upwards. In some embodiments, the sensor does not receive a signal.

[0079] In step 612, the sensor transmits a negative result to software (not shown) on a computer. In some embodiments, a non-robust detection result of the signal is transmitted to the software via the sensor, indicating that the opaque portion of the cassette is above the transparent portion. The cassette lid 402 and the cassette base 404 have a sufficient difference in signal intensity that can be transmitted through the material, enabling robust detection.

[0080] In step 614, the software displays a negative result on a monitor via the computer. In some embodiments, the monitor is viewed by an operator. In some embodiments, a prominent visual indicator and message are displayed on the monitor to notify the operator that there is a problem with the orientation of the cassette. In some embodiments, simultaneously with or instead of the prominent visual indicator, the computer transmits an electronic notification message to a pre-configured address to alert an operator who may be in a remote location.

[0081] In step 616, the cassette is not loaded into the incubator or image processing system. In some embodiments, if the orientation of the cassette is not corrected, loading the cassette into the incubator or image processing system is stopped until the orientation is corrected by an operator or an automated sample processing system (e.g., using a robotic arm).

[0082] In step 618, the orientation of the cassette is corrected. In some embodiments, the orientation of the cassette is corrected manually by an operator. In some embodiments, the automated sample processing system may have a function to automatically flip the cassette to the correct orientation (e.g., using a robotic arm).

[0083] In step 620, the cassette is loaded into an incubator or image processing system. In some embodiments, the cassette is automatically picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by a robotic arm or image processing system and loaded into the incubator. In some embodiments, the cassette is manually picked up from the cassette column of the carousel by an operator and loaded into the incubator.

[0084] The components and functions of the devices described above can be implemented using any combination of discrete circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic gates, and / or single-chip architectures. Furthermore, the functions of the devices can be implemented using microcontrollers, programmable logic arrays, and / or microprocessors, or any combination thereof as needed. Hardware, firmware, and / or software elements may be collectively referred to as "logic" or "circuits" in this specification.

[0085] It should be understood that the exemplary device shown in the block diagram above is only one functionally descriptive example among many potential implementations. Therefore, the division, omission, or inclusion of block functions shown in the attached diagram does not necessarily mean that the hardware components, circuits, software, and / or elements for realizing these functions are divided, omitted, or included in the embodiment.

[0086] At least one non-temporary computer-readable storage medium may contain instructions that, when executed, cause the system to perform one of the computer implementations described herein.

[0087] Some embodiments may be described using the expressions "one embodiment" or "one of the embodiments," as well as their derivatives. These terms mean that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment. The phrase "in one embodiment" is used in various places in this specification, but not all of them refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, unless otherwise noted, the features described above are considered to be usable in any combination. Thus, features described individually can be used in combination with each other unless explicitly stated to be incompatible.

[0088] Referring generally to the notation and nomenclature used herein, the detailed descriptions herein may be presented in terms of program procedures executed on a computer or computer network. The descriptions and expressions relating to these procedures are intended to best convey the content of one's research to others skilled in the art.

[0089] A procedure, as used herein and generally, is defined as a self-consistent set of operations that yield a desired result. These operations require the physical manipulation of physical quantities. These physical quantities, though not necessarily, typically take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals that can be stored, transferred, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. These signals may be conveniently referred to as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., primarily from the standpoint of common usage. However, it should be noted that all these and similar terms should be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely labels assigned to those quantities for convenience.

[0090] Furthermore, the operations performed are often described in terms commonly associated with mental operations performed by human operators, such as addition and comparison. In none of the operations described herein (which constitute part of one or more embodiments) is such a human operator's ability required, nor in most cases, desirable. Rather, these operations are mechanical operations. Machines useful for performing the operations of the various embodiments include general-purpose digital computers or similar devices.

[0091] Some embodiments may be described using the terms “joined” and “connected,” as well as their derivatives. These terms are not necessarily intended to be synonymous. For example, in some embodiments, the terms “connected” and / or “joined” may be used to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. However, the term “joined” may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but are linked or interacting with each other.

[0092] Various embodiments also relate to apparatus or systems for performing these operations. This apparatus may be specifically configured for a particular purpose, or it may consist of a general-purpose computer that is selectively started or reconfigured by a computer program stored within the computer. The procedures presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. While the programs described in accordance with the teachings herein can be used on a variety of general-purpose machines, it may be more convenient to construct a more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The structures required for these various machines will become apparent from the description herein.

[0093] It should be emphasized that this summary of the disclosure is provided to enable readers to quickly grasp the content of the technical disclosure. The summary is submitted with the understanding that it is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, it will be seen that in the detailed description above, various features are grouped into a single embodiment in order to simplify the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than those expressly described in each claim. Rather, as the following claims demonstrate, the subject matter of the invention lies in fewer features than all the features of the single embodiment disclosed. Accordingly, the following claims are incorporated into the detailed description herein, and each claim exists independently as an independent embodiment. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English translations of the terms “equipped” and “in which case” respectively. Furthermore, terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used merely as labels and do not impose numerical requirements on the subject matter.

[0094] The above includes examples of the disclosed architecture. Of course, it is impossible to describe every conceivable combination of components and / or methodologies, but those skilled in the art will recognize that many more combinations and permutations are possible. Therefore, this novel architecture is intended to encompass all such changes, modifications, and variations, which are included in the spirit and scope of the attached claims.

[0095] Exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, the following:

[0096] 1. An automated sample processing system comprising: a cassette comprising an upper component having sides and a lower component having sides, wherein the sides of the upper component and the sides of the lower component have different opacities; a carousel configured to support the cassette; an emitter configured to emit a signal to the sides of the upper component of the cassette; a sensor capable of receiving a signal when the signal passes through at least one cassette component that is optically more transparent than the other cassette components; and signal processing logic operable on a processor. The sensor is configured to transmit an output to the signal processing logic, the signal having a first characteristic when passing through the optically more transparent cassette component and a second characteristic when passing through the other cassette components, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output to determine the orientation of the cassette.

[0097] 2.1 is an automated sample processing system in which the first characteristic is the presence of a signal and the second characteristic is the absence of a signal.

[0098] An automated sample processing system according to either 3.1 or 2, wherein the signal processing logic is further configured to display the cassette orientation on a display.

[0099] An automated sample processing system according to any of 4.1 to 4.3, wherein the emitter and sensor are positioned such that when the carousel positions the cassette in a predetermined configuration, the emitter and sensor are positioned adjacent to the side of the upper component on the opposite side of the cassette.

[0100] An automated sample processing system according to any of sections 5.1 to 4, wherein the emitter and sensor are positioned such that when the carousel places the cassette in a predetermined configuration, the emitter and sensor are adjacent to the side of the lower component on the opposite side of the cassette.

[0101] An automated sample processing system as described in any of sections 6.1 to 6.5, wherein the signal is light of a predetermined wavelength and the sensor is a photodetector.

[0102] An automated sample processing system as described in any of sections 7.1 to 7.6, wherein the upper component is either a cassette lid or a cassette base, and the lower component is the other of the cassette lid or cassette base.

[0103] An automated sample processing system according to 8.7, wherein the cassette lid is substantially transparent to the signal emitted by the emitter, and the cassette base is substantially opaque to the signal emitted by the emitter.

[0104] In the automated sample processing system described in any of sections 9.7 to 9.8, the cassette lid is made of optically transparent, non-fluorescent plastic.

[0105] An automated sample processing system as described in any of sections 10.7 to 10.9, wherein the cassette base is made of substantially opaque plastic.

[0106] An automated sample processing system according to any of 11.1 to 10, further comprising a robotic manipulator configured to invert a cassette and position the lower components in an upper position, and further comprising control logic configured to instruct the robotic manipulator to invert the cassette when signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down.

[0107] An automatic sample processing system according to any of 12.1 to 11, further comprising control logic configured to perform one or more of the following: pause automatic processing of the cassette if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down, and / or automatically process the cassette if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is oriented correctly, or

[0108] An automated sampling system according to any of 13.1 to 12, further comprising an imaging system configured to capture an image through the top surface of the upper component of a cassette, wherein the signal processing logic is configured to determine the orientation of the cassette before it is presented to the imaging system.

[0109] 14. An automated sample processing system comprising: a cassette having an upper part and a lower part, wherein the outer surfaces of the upper part and the lower part have different diffusion properties; a carousel configured to support the cassette;

[0110] An emitter configured to emit a signal to either the upper or lower side of the cassette component; a sensor capable of receiving a signal when the signal is spread by at least one cassette component with a higher ability to spread the signal than other cassette components; and signal processing logic operable on a processor. The sensor is configured to transmit an output to the signal processing logic, the signal having a first characteristic when passing through the cassette component with a higher ability to spread the signal and a second characteristic when passing through other cassette components, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output to determine the orientation of the cassette.

[0111] 15. A method for detecting the orientation of a cassette in an automated sample processing system, comprising: loading a cassette into a carousel, wherein the cassette comprises an upper component having sides and a lower component having sides, wherein the sides of the upper component and the sides of the lower component have different opacities; emitting a signal to the sides of the upper component of the cassette using an emitter, wherein the signal is receivable by a sensor when passing through a cassette component that is at least more optically transparent than the other cassette components; processing the output of the sensor using signal processing logic, wherein the signal has a first characteristic when passing through the optically transparent cassette component and a second characteristic when passing through the other cassette components, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output to determine the orientation of the cassette.

[0112] The method of 16.15, where the first characteristic is the presence of a signal and the second characteristic is the absence of a signal.

[0113] 17.15-16 further includes instructing the robotic manipulator to flip the cassette over when the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down.

[0114] 18.15-17 further includes pausing automatic cassette processing if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down.

[0115] 19.15-18 further includes any of the methods described above, which further includes automatically processing the cassette if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is in the correct orientation.

[0116] The cassette orientation is determined by one of the methods described in 20.15-20, before the cassette is presented to an imaging system configured to capture images through the top surface of the cassette's upper component.

Claims

1. An automated sample processing system, A cassette comprising an upper component having sides and a lower component having sides, wherein the sides of the upper component and the sides of the lower component have different opacities; A carousel configured to support the aforementioned cassette; An emitter configured to radiate a signal to either the upper component or the lower component of the cassette; A sensor capable of receiving the signal when the signal passes through a cassette component that is more optically transparent than other cassette components; Signal processing logic operable on a processor, wherein the sensor is configured to transmit an output to the signal processing logic, the signal having a first characteristic when passing through the optically transparent cassette component and a second characteristic when passing through the other cassette component, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output to determine the orientation of the cassette; An automated sample processing system equipped with the following features.

2. The first characteristic is that the signal is present, and the second characteristic is that the signal is absent. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

3. The signal processing logic is further configured to display the orientation of the cassette on the display. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

4. The emitter and the sensor are positioned such that when the carousel arranges the cassette in a predetermined configuration, the emitter and the sensor are adjacent to the side surface of the upper component on the opposite side of the cassette. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

5. The emitter and the sensor are positioned such that when the carousel arranges the cassette in a predetermined configuration, the emitter and the sensor are adjacent to the side surface of the lower component on the opposite side of the cassette. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

6. The signal is light of a predetermined wavelength, and the sensor is a photodetector. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

7. The upper component is either the cassette lid or the cassette base, and the lower component is the other of the cassette lid or the cassette base. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

8. The cassette lid is substantially transparent to the signal emitted from the emitter, and the cassette base is substantially opaque to the signal emitted from the emitter. The automated sample processing system according to claim 7.

9. The cassette lid is made of optically transparent, non-fluorescent plastic. The automated sample processing system according to claim 7.

10. The cassette base is made of substantially opaque plastic. The automated sample processing system according to claim 7.

11. Furthermore, the robot manipulator is configured to invert the cassette and position the lower component in a higher position, Furthermore, the system includes control logic configured to instruct the robot manipulator to flip the cassette when the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

12. If the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down, the automatic processing of the cassette is temporarily suspended; or A step of automatically processing the cassette when the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is in the correct orientation; The control logic further comprises a control logic configured to perform at least one of the following: The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

13. Furthermore, the system includes an imaging system configured to capture images through the upper surface of the upper component of the cassette, The signal processing logic is configured to determine the orientation of the cassette before it is presented to the imaging system. The automated sample processing system according to claim 1.

14. An automated sample processing system, A cassette comprising an upper component having sides and a lower component having sides, wherein the sides of the upper component and the sides of the lower component have different diffusion characteristics; A carousel configured to support the aforementioned cassette; An emitter configured to radiate a signal to either the upper or lower side of the cassette; A sensor capable of receiving the signal when the signal is spread by a cassette component that has a greater ability to spread the signal than other cassette components; Signal processing logic operable on a processor, wherein the sensor is configured to transmit an output to the signal processing logic, the signal has a first characteristic when passing through a cassette component with a large ability to spread the signal, and a second characteristic when passing through other cassette components, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output to determine the orientation of the cassette; An automated sample processing system equipped with the following features.

15. A method for detecting the orientation of a cassette in an automated sample processing system, A step of loading a cassette into a carousel, wherein the cassette comprises an upper component having sides and a lower component having sides, wherein the sides of the upper component and the sides of the lower component have different opacities; A step of using an emitter to emit a signal to the side of the upper component of the cassette, wherein the signal can be received by a sensor at least when the signal passes through a cassette component that is more optically transparent than other cassette components; A step of processing the output of the sensor using signal processing logic, wherein the signal has a first characteristic when passing through the optically transparent cassette component and a second characteristic when passing through the other cassette component, and the signal processing logic is configured to interpret the output and determine the orientation of the cassette; A method of having.

16. The first characteristic is that the signal is present, and the second characteristic is that the signal is absent. The method according to claim 15.

17. The method further includes the step of instructing a robot manipulator to flip the cassette over if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down. The method according to claim 15.

18. The method further includes a step of temporarily suspending the automatic processing of the cassette if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is upside down. The method according to claim 15.

19. The method further includes a step of automatically processing the cassette if the signal processing logic determines that the cassette is in the correct orientation. The method according to claim 15.

20. The step of determining the orientation of the cassette is performed before the cassette is presented to an imaging system configured to capture images through the upper surface of the upper component of the cassette. The method according to claim 15.

Images