Automatic sampling device using optical feedback for path guiding

Abstract

This invention relates to an automatic sampling device that utilizes optical feedback for path guidance. It includes a guide seat to guide and position the sampling site (e.g., the nasal cavity) on the human body. A control unit drives the automatic sampling device, causing a movable seat on the device to move the swab and lens along the sampling path and insert them into the sampling site. During the movement of the swab and lens, the image recognition program of the control unit controls the swab and lens to synchronously perform a tumbling motion (U) based on the illumination distribution of the sampling path image captured by the lens. This ensures that the illumination distribution of the sampling path image remains balanced, avoiding contact with surrounding tissues and preventing discomfort. When the average illumination of the sampling path image exceeds a preset value, the control unit stops the swab and lens from moving forward and performs a tumbling motion (U) to automatically sample the swab. After automatic sampling is completed, the control unit controls the swab and lens to exit the sampling site along the sampling path.