Assembly for accessing equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly for accessing equipment (1, 1'). A processing device (21) receives data via a data interface (20) and generates information signals from the data. The information signals are output by an output device (22). An adapter (2) generates information about an interaction between a piece of equipment (1') and an environment to which the piece of equipment (1') is coupled.

Description

[0001] Arrangement for accessing equipment

[0002] The invention relates to an arrangement for accessing equipment.

[0003] In modern analytical technology, it is sometimes common for multiple samples to be examined, which may require sample preparation. Preparation can include, for example, dividing, combining with other samples, adding further substances, mixing, homogenizing, heating, cooling, pipetting, transferring, magnetic influence, filtration, cleaning, pH adjustment, or centrifugation. In some laboratories, different types of analysis may be carried out on samples simultaneously. Suitable equipment is available for the actual analyses and preparation, which must be monitored by laboratory staff and supplied with the samples. If many or very different pieces of equipment have to be looked after, this can place a considerable burden on staff and may even increase the susceptibility to errors.Laboratory automation systems are described, for example, in EP 2 857 842 A1 or in US 2014 / 0152820 A1 .

[0004] The object underlying the invention is therefore to simplify the maintenance of a plurality of devices, preferably from the field of analytical technology.

[0005] The invention solves the problem by an arrangement for accessing equipment having the features of the first claim.

[0006] The arrangement according to the invention allows access to devices and, in particular, to data originating from or relating to the devices. Some of the data thus relate specifically to the device itself (such as voltage values ​​of the device or individual components thereof, fan speeds, outside temperature or humidity around the device, etc.). The data can also relate to the application and thus be actual user or customer data, such as parameters of a protocol to be processed or the measured values ​​from a sample analysis. This makes it possible, for example, to obtain information remotely about which processes the devices are executing or their status (e.g., active, waiting, or in an error state).It is therefore no longer necessary for an operator to go to the equipment to obtain information about it; instead, the data relating to the equipment and thus the knowledge about the equipment is passed on to an output device and thus to the user, who can be an operator such as a laboratory technician. The arrangement for this purpose has a data interface, a processing device and an output device. The processing device receives data via the data interface and generates information signals from it. It therefore prepares the data, for which purpose, in one embodiment, stored data is also used. The output device outputs the information signals. In one variant, the output device is a type of display unit for the optical reproduction of the information signals.

[0007] The adapter adapts devices for integration into an application of the arrangement. For example, devices may not allow data to be retrieved from them in digital form. This may be because they are not capable of doing so per se, for example because they are too old or not designed for cost reasons. The adapter would therefore digitize analog signals. However, this may also be because a proprietary data format is used. Nevertheless, some kind of interaction usually takes place between the device in question and its environment. For example, the device may emit optical or acoustic signals. It may also be that the device accesses consumables or generates wastewater or exhaust air, for example. In most cases, the device will also require energy, e.g. in the form of electrical current.This interaction with the environment to which the device is coupled, e.g., by being located within it, by receiving something from it (e.g., water, power, consumables), or by supplying something to it (e.g., wastewater or signals), is recorded by the adapter. The adapter then makes the associated information available to the processing device via the data interface.

[0008] In one embodiment, the arrangement comprises more than one data interface. In one variant, a device that generates digital signals is connected via a data interface.

[0009] One embodiment of the arrangement is that the processing device comprises the data interface, and that the processing device and the output device are separate units. In this embodiment, the processing device and the output device are separate components, which can thus also be positioned at different locations.

[0010] One embodiment of the arrangement includes several differently designed types of output devices, and the processing device is designed to generate the information signals in a manner suitable for each output device used. In this embodiment, the processing device assumes a central function by supplying different output devices with the information signals. The output devices are, for example, monitors, smartphones, smartwatches, or smartglasses. Depending on the type of output device to be used, the information signals are generated individually, each suitable for the display options. In one embodiment, several output devices are used.

[0011] One embodiment of the arrangement is that the arrangement further comprises an input device, and that the processing device is configured to receive and process input data entered via the input device. In this embodiment, it is possible, for example, for the operating personnel to enter data in order to influence the arrangement or even the equipment. Thus, in this embodiment, the arrangement not only serves to process and display data from the equipment, but also allows the operating personnel to actively control it.

[0012] In one embodiment, the input device is a data interface connected to the processing device in the form of a so-called human-machine interface (HMI). Alternatively, the input device is a smartphone that can access the processing device via an app.

[0013] Different examples of input data are discussed below.

[0014] One embodiment of the arrangement includes that the processing device is configured to send control data entered via the input device to those devices to which the control data is addressed. In this embodiment, it is possible to influence the devices by entering control data as input data and sending it from the processing device to those devices for which the control data is intended. The assignment between control data and devices can, for example, be based on the control data itself, since, for example, parameters are set that are only relevant for certain devices. Alternatively, it is possible for the user to explicitly select the relevant devices via the input device.

[0015] One embodiment of the arrangement consists in the processing device being designed to generate the information signals depending on access rights data entered via the input device. This embodiment takes into account the fact that there are different groups of operating personnel who have different access rights. The access rights should preferably relate to reading or receiving data from the equipment. For example, the operator enters an authorization code via the input device, and the processing device derives – e.g., by accessing data stored or encrypted in the code – which data it may output in the form of information signals. The aforementioned embodiment is preferably relevant for the separation of data relating to the equipment itself (e.g., fan speed, energy consumption, etc.).) from those that originate from the user or are attributable to the user (e.g., adjustable parameters for a protocol or results of an analysis). For example, a service technician requires different data than a laboratory technician.

[0016] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment, the access rights relate to intervention in the devices themselves, in particular to the aforementioned control data for the devices. Thus, for example, the user first enters an access code and then enters control data for the devices authorized for them with regard to the access rights.

[0017] One embodiment of the arrangement includes the processing device being configured to generate the information signals depending on display preference data input via the input device. In this embodiment, a user specifies which data they would like to be displayed and how. This also includes the possibility for the user to assign specific designations to the devices for data display.

[0018] The following embodiments specify the criteria according to which the information signals are generated. The criteria can be input via the input device, for example, but they can also be taken from a data storage device or result from the state of the equipment.

[0019] One embodiment of the arrangement is that the processing device is configured to generate the information signals depending on the protocols according to which the equipment executes processes. In this embodiment, the information signals convey, for example, the remaining runtime for individual process steps or a start time to make preparations for a process. For example, data about the currently ongoing process is received from the equipment, and this data is compiled into an overall picture within the respective protocols.

[0020] One embodiment of the arrangement includes that the processing device is designed to generate the information signals depending on data relating to properties of the equipment. The properties of the equipment are, for example, the condition of the equipment or measured variables of the equipment. The properties can also relate to cleaning or general service intervals. In this embodiment, the information signals are thus generated such that the information is related to the equipment from which the information originates. One embodiment of the arrangement consists in that the processing device is designed to generate the information signals depending on historical data about the equipment and / or depending on historical data about the processes to be carried out by the equipment.In this configuration, data relating to the equipment and / or the processes being performed or being performed by the equipment is logged. This historical data is then used for the information signals. For example, if a piece of equipment requires calibration after a certain number of runs, the information signal can indicate when the calibration time is approaching.

[0021] One embodiment of the arrangement includes that the processing device is designed such that it generates the information signals depending on a relationship relating to a process between the pieces of equipment. This embodiment takes into account the fact that different pieces of equipment interact, so that, for example, a sample, after being prepared in a first piece of equipment, must be analyzed in a second piece of equipment. Therefore, the information signal can indicate, for example, the remaining runtime of the process in the first piece of equipment and how long, if any, another sample will remain in the second piece of equipment. In one embodiment, the information signals comprise a flow chart that represents the process-related and preferably also temporal relationship between the pieces of equipment or between the respective processes to be executed.

[0022] One embodiment of the arrangement is that the processing device is configured to generate the information signals depending on a spatial relationship between the devices. In this embodiment, the information signals also reference the locations of the devices.

[0023] One embodiment of the arrangement includes that at least one piece of equipment consumes consumables when executing a process, and that the information output device is configured to generate the information signals depending on the quantity of consumables. In this embodiment, at least one piece of equipment requires consumables. Based on data about the consumables—e.g., in the form of measurements or, for example, based on consumption estimated from the protocol—the information signals are appropriately generated. For example, it can be displayed how much consumable is still available and when, for example, a minimum quantity will be reached. Alternatively, the information signal comprises an ordering process through which the consumable is reordered.One embodiment consists in the adapter being designed in the form of a camera, a microphone, or an energy consumption measuring device. In this embodiment, the adapter is present as a camera and / or microphone in order to record signals from the device. This accordingly applies if the device emits optical or acoustic signals. Optical signals can, for example, consist of the device showing measured values ​​on a display or indicating its status in the form of a traffic light. Acoustic signals include, for example, warning signals or the noise during operation of the device (e.g., the running of a fan). Alternatively or additionally, the adapter is an energy consumption measuring device, which records, for example, the power consumption of the device. Based on the energy required, it is also possible to infer whether the device is working.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, an adapter records the inflow and / or outflow of liquids or gases to and from the equipment. For example, the equipment's water or gas consumption is recorded. The same applies, if necessary, to wastewater or exhaust air.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the adapter is designed to detect a fault condition of the device. In this embodiment, the adapter detects whether an error is present. The information about the device thus relates to whether everything is OK or whether there is an error.

[0026] For example, the adapter is a humidity or conductivity sensor that detects whether there is a leak in the device. Alternatively or additionally, the adapter is a gas sensor. Preferably, one embodiment involves an intervention element in the system, via which, for example, a supply line can be closed or a power supply can be disconnected. In one embodiment, this occurs automatically via the adapter and / or the processing device.

[0027] According to a further teaching, the invention solves the problem by means of a laboratory comprising equipment and an arrangement for accessing the equipment, wherein the equipment each has at least one data interface, wherein the equipment is designed to execute processes and to output data about a process - preferably one that is being executed - via its data interfaces, wherein the arrangement has at least one data interface, a processing device and an output device, wherein the processing device is designed to receive data from the equipment via the data interface and to generate information signals from the received data, and wherein the output device is designed to output the information signals.The laboratory is used to process and / or analyze samples and is a community of equipment that each performs processes and an arrangement that allows access to the equipment.

[0028] The arrangement is preferably designed according to one of the preceding or following embodiments. The explanations regarding the arrangements apply accordingly to the laboratory with such an arrangement. Therefore, they will not be repeated here.

[0029] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0030] Fig. 1 shows schematically the structure of a laboratory,

[0031] Fig. 2 shows an application example for the arrangement,

[0032] Fig. 3 shows a situation during the application of the arrangement in a laboratory and

[0033] Fig. 4 shows one possibility for integrating equipment into the arrangement.

[0034] Figure 1 schematically shows an arrangement in which two devices 1 are monitored. The devices 1 each have data interfaces 10, for example, for wired or wireless data transmission. The data from the devices 1 relates, for example, to the processes performed by the devices 1. This could be, for example, tempering, centrifuging, or analyzing a sample.

[0035] The data interfaces 10 of the devices 1 communicate with a data interface 20 of the processing device 21, which generates information signals from the received data in conjunction with other stored data. The data is thus prepared for a user, preferably tailored to their needs.

[0036] In the example of Fig. 1, the information signals are optical signals, such as those output via a screen. Two different types of output devices 22 are shown here. One is a unit connected to the processing device 21, and the other is a separate unit. The processing device 21 adapts the information signals accordingly. For example, a display can display more information than a smartphone.

[0037] Here, a user can communicate with the processing device 21 via two input devices 23. This relates, for example, to a login process, whereby the user's access authorization is simultaneously communicated. The processing device 21 can then select the data to be processed specifically for this user or their authorization. The input devices 23 here are a standalone unit and a unit associated with an output device 22, e.g., in the form of a smartphone or tablet.

[0038] One of the devices 1 is intended to access a consumable 3, which is located, for example, in a tank. To ensure that sufficient consumable 3 is always available for the processes, the processing device 21 records data relating to the affected device 1 and outputs the corresponding information about the remaining stock of consumable 3 in the form of information signals.

[0039] Figure 2 shows an application of two devices positioned side by side in a laboratory. Above the devices 2 are several monitors that serve as output devices 22 and receive their information signals from a common processing device 21 (not shown here).

[0040] Shown is a user 4 who, thanks to the access arrangement in this laboratory, can obtain a good overview not only of the equipment 1 in front of him, but also of equipment in other rooms.

[0041] The faces of the devices 1 clearly show that they are in a functioning state.

[0042] The example in Fig. 3 is different. In it, a processing device 21 in the form of a computer is located directly next to a device 1 in which - indicated by the grim face - an error has occurred. The processing device 21 converts the data output by the device 1, e.g. "faulty state", into an information signal, which in this case consists of an exclamation mark. The information signal is transmitted wirelessly to an output device 22, which in this case is designed as a smartwatch and can thus be worn directly by the user 4 (cf. Fig. 2). The user then sees the information signal on the output device 22, which represents the presence of an error in a device 1.

[0043] Fig. 4 shows how a device 1' can be integrated which does not have a suitable data interface 10 like the devices 1 of the other embodiments of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3.

[0044] In the exemplary embodiment, three adapters 2 are present, which generate information about the interaction of the device 1' with its environment. The exemplary device 1' requires electrical energy for its operation and outputs the measured values ​​resulting from the analysis of a sample via a display. Furthermore, the analysis is such that several valves are switched in the device 1', which is accompanied by noise. The environment of the device 1' here is the room in which it is located or to whose power grid it is connected.

[0045] Accordingly, a first adapter 2 detects the energy consumption of the device 1' by being coupled to the power cable of the device 1'. Another adapter 2 is a camera that records the optical signals of the device 1'. The third adapter 2 includes a microphone, here in the form of a stethoscope, to detect the sounds of the valves of the device 1'.

[0046] Measuring energy consumption is based on the fact that a device that is working requires more power than one that is not working or in standby mode. Accordingly, different work steps can each lead to different power requirements. Therefore, for example, analysis steps from a known protocol can be compared with the recorded energy consumption. At the very least, it is usually possible to determine whether the device is working. A change in energy consumption over time can also be used to determine wear and tear.

[0047] By capturing different types of interaction, correlations can also be identified and exploited. For example, two analysis steps may have the same power consumption but different noise levels.

[0048] The adapters 2 are each connected to a data interface 20 of the processing device 21 and transmit their digital data via it.

[0049] Depending on the further processing or preparation of the data from the adapter 2 by the processing device 21, the associated information is displayed or made accessible to the user via the output device 22. For example,

[0050] For example, power consumption can be documented or cost-effectiveness assessed. To evaluate the data from the three adapters 2, the processing device 21 is equipped with artificial intelligence.

[0051] 1 device

[0052] 1 ' Equipment

[0053] 2 adapters

[0054] 3 Consumables

[0055] 4 users

[0056] 10 Data interface of a device

[0057] 20 Data interface

[0058] 21 Processing device

[0059] 22 Dispensing device

[0060] 23 Input device

Claims

Patent claims 1. Arrangement for accessing devices (1, 1'), with at least one data interface (20), a processing device (21), an output device (22) and an adapter (2), wherein the processing device (21) is designed to receive data via the data interface (20) and to generate information signals from the received data, and wherein the output device (22) is designed to output the information signals, and wherein the adapter (2) is designed to generate information about at least one interaction of a device (1') with an environment to which the device (1') is coupled and to make it available to the processing device (21) via the data interface (20).

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the arrangement has a plurality of differently designed types of output devices (22), and wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals in a manner suitable for a respective output device (22) used.

3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the arrangement further comprises an input device (23), and wherein the processing device (21) is designed to receive and process input data input via the input device (23), wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals as a function of access rights data input via the input device (23) and / or as a function of display preference data input via the input device (23).

4. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals in dependence on protocols according to which the devices (1, 1') carry out processes, and / or wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals in dependence on data relating to properties of the devices (1, 1').

5. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals as a function of historical data about the equipment (1, 1') and / or as a function of historical data about the processes to be carried out by the equipment (1, 1').

6. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the processing device (21) is designed to generate the information signals as a function of a relationship relating to a sequence between the devices (1, 1').

7. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one device (1, 1') consumes consumables (3) when carrying out a process, and wherein the information output device (2) is designed to generate the information signals depending on a quantity of the consumables.

8. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the adapter (2) is designed in the form of a camera.

9. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the adapter (2) is designed in the form of a microphone.

10. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the adapter (2) is designed in the form of an energy absorption measuring device.

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