Method and apparatus for replacing consumable during automated process, and storage medium

Abstract

A method and apparatus for replacing a consumable during an automated process, and a storage medium. The method for replacing a consumable during an automated process comprises: on the basis of whether a first instruction has been received from an automated apparatus for executing an automated process, or on the basis of operation steps in the automated process, determining whether the replacement of a consumable is required, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process; and when the replacement of the consumable is required, sending a second instruction to a control apparatus, such that the control apparatus drives and controls an execution apparatus to replace the consumable.

Description

Methods, devices, and storage media for replacing consumables in automated processes.

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411942758.7, filed on December 26, 2024, entitled "Method, Apparatus and Storage Medium for Replacing Consumables in an Automated Process", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of control, and more specifically to a method for replacing consumables in an automated process, a device for replacing consumables in an automated process, electronic equipment, an automated system, a storage medium, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of science and technology, the complexity and repetitiveness of various automated processes are increasing, and automated control can improve operational efficiency. In automated processes, consumable replacement is a crucial step. For example, during clone picking, if the target plate is full while the source plate has not yet finished picking all the clones, the target plate needs to be replaced; in other words, the target plate is the consumable to be replaced.

[0004] However, in related technologies, the replacement of consumables requires a large amount of manual operation. Specifically, during the cloning process, someone needs to be on duty. After selecting a board, the old board is manually removed and a new board is placed on top. This not only interrupts the work that the staff is doing and takes up their time, but it is also inefficient, prone to errors, and poses safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application is made in consideration of the above-mentioned issues.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, a method for replacing consumables in an automated process is provided, comprising:

[0007] Whether consumables need to be replaced depends on whether a first instruction is received from the automated device used to execute the automated process or on the operating steps in the automated process, wherein the consumables are gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process; if the consumables need to be replaced, a second instruction is sent to the control device so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumables.

[0008] In one possible implementation, determining whether consumables need to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process includes: determining whether consumables need to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operating step before the next operating step in the automation process is executed.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the consumable is a target orifice plate and includes multiple orifice positions; determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operation step for the next operation step includes: determining the starting orifice position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next operation step based on the operation information of the previous operation step; and determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the starting orifice position.

[0010] In one possible implementation, determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes: determining the hole position occupancy status on the target orifice plate after the completion of the previous running step; and determining the starting hole position based on the hole position occupancy status.

[0011] In one possible implementation, determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes: obtaining the preset number of hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step; obtaining the actual hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step; and determining the starting hole position based on the actual hole positions and the preset number of hole positions.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the preceding running step is used to move the target object in a portion of the holes in the source orifice plate to the target orifice plate.

[0013] In one possible implementation, before the next running step in the automated process is executed, determining whether consumables need to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step is included: in response to receiving a fourth instruction from the control device to execute the next running step, determining whether consumables need to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step and the operation information of the next running step.

[0014] According to a second aspect of this application, a method for replacing consumables in an automated process is also provided, comprising:

[0015] An automated device for executing an automated process sends a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operating steps in the automated process, and the first drive device determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on whether the first instruction has been received, or determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on the operating steps of the automated process, wherein the consumables are gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process; if the consumables need to be replaced, the first drive device sends a second instruction to a control device; the control device sends a third instruction to an execution device based on the second instruction; and the execution device replaces the consumables based on the third instruction.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the consumable is a target orifice plate and includes multiple orifice positions; the first instruction is sent to the first drive device according to the operation steps in the automated process using an automated device for executing an automated process, including: using the automated device to perform the following operations: determining the current number of orifice positions in the current target orifice plate operated by the current operation step in the automated process; obtaining the total number of orifice positions in the current target orifice plate; and sending the first instruction to the first drive device according to the current number of orifice positions operated by the current operation step and the total number of orifice positions in the current target orifice plate.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the automation device for executing an automated process sends a first instruction to a first driving device according to the operating steps in the automated process, and further includes: using the automation device to determine the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current operating step; wherein, sending the first instruction to the first driving device according to the current number of holes and the total number of holes in the current target orifice plate operated by the current operating step includes: sending the first instruction to the first driving device according to the current number of holes and the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current operating step, and the total number of holes.

[0018] According to a third aspect of this application, a consumable replacement device for an automated process is also provided, comprising: a determining module and a sending module. The determining module is configured to determine whether a consumable needs to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from an automated device for executing the automated process or based on the operating steps in the automated process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process; the sending module is configured to send a second instruction to a control device when the consumable needs to be replaced, so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect of this application, an electronic device is also provided, comprising: a processor and a memory, wherein computer program instructions are stored in the memory, and the computer program instructions are executed by the processor to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described above.

[0020] According to a fifth aspect of this application, an automation system is also provided, comprising: an automation device, a first drive device, a control device, and an execution device. The automation device is configured to execute an automation process and send a first instruction to the first drive device according to the operating steps in the automation process; the first drive device is configured to determine whether a consumable needs to be replaced based on the first instruction or the operating steps in the automation process, and if the consumable needs to be replaced, send a second instruction to the control device; the control device is configured to send a third instruction to the execution device according to the second instruction; and the execution device is configured to replace the consumable based on the third instruction.

[0021] According to a sixth aspect of this application, a storage medium is also provided, on which program instructions are stored, which, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described above.

[0022] According to a seventh aspect of this application, a computer program product is also provided, including computer program instructions, which, when run, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described above.

[0023] The above technical solution determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on the first instruction from the automated device or the operational steps in the automated process. If replacement is required, a second instruction is automatically sent to the control device, which then drives the execution device to replace the consumable. This automates consumable replacement without human intervention, improving operational efficiency, avoiding human error, and reducing the workload and safety hazards for workers.

[0024] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the more detailed description of the embodiments of this application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of this application and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain this application and do not constitute a limitation thereof.

[0026] Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a consumable replacement method of an automated process according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 2 shows a schematic flowchart of a consumable replacement method according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of a consumable replacement device for an automated process according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of an automated system according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely a part of the embodiments of this application.

[0032] Automated processes are widely used in various fields, and the complexity and repetitiveness of these processes are increasing daily. Therefore, automated control methods have become a key factor in improving operational efficiency. Among the many stages of automated processes, the importance of consumable replacement cannot be ignored. Consumables are items that are gradually consumed as the automated equipment operates. Taking the cloning process as an example, when the target plate (consumable) is full, but the source plate still contains identified but unpicked clones, the target plate needs to be replaced. However, in related technologies, the consumable replacement stage heavily relies on manual operation. Specifically, the cloning process requires personnel to be on-site throughout the entire process. Each time a plate is picked, the consumed consumable must be manually removed and a new one placed. This operating mode not only interferes with the workers' ongoing work, consuming their valuable time, but also leads to low overall operational efficiency, is prone to human error, and may even cause safety issues.

[0033] To at least partially solve the aforementioned technical problems, a first aspect of this application provides a method for replacing consumables in an automated process. Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to an embodiment of this application. It can be understood that during the execution of an automated process, some items are gradually consumed; these can be referred to as consumables. In other words, the operation of the automated device will cause the consumables to be gradually consumed. When the consumables are exhausted, new consumables need to be replaced to ensure the continued execution of the automated process. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to an embodiment of this application can automatically replace consumables. As shown in Figure 1, the method includes steps S1100 and S1200.

[0034] In step S1100, it is determined whether the consumables need to be replaced based on whether a first instruction has been received from the automation device used to execute the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process.

[0035] Automated processes can include a series of pre-defined operational steps based on a target task. Automated devices can execute these processes to complete the target task. Automated devices can include pipetting workstations, microbial clone picking devices, or any device suitable for executing automated processes. An automated process can be broken down into multiple consecutive operational steps. Taking a clone picking process as an example, it requires a large number of clone picking operations, such as picking target microbial clones from a source plate to a target plate. As the clone picking operations proceed in the automated process, a well in a target plate will gradually be filled with clones from the source plate. When it is full, a new target plate needs to be replaced to continue the clone picking operation. Thus, the target plate is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process. In this example, the target plate is a consumable. A large number of clone picking operations corresponding to different source and target plates can be implemented through automated processes. Similarly, for a pipetting process, a large number of pipetting operations are required to transfer liquid from a source plate to a target plate. A well in a target plate will gradually be filled with liquid from the source plate. When it is full, a new target plate needs to be replaced to continue the pipetting operation. Therefore, the target well plate is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process. The target well plate is a consumable. Both the source and target well plates can include microplates, such as 96-well or 384-well plates. It is understood that in the above example of the pipetting process, consumables can also include consumable devices such as pipette tips. The number of uses for a pipette tip is limited. For example, a pipette tip can be reused 5 times; each pipetting operation consumes one use of the tip, and the pipette tip is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process. Furthermore, since the automated process is performed by an automated device, in other words, the operation of the automated device causes the consumables to be consumed. It is understood that any device consumed during the execution of the automated process can be a consumable. The operational steps in the automated process can be divided according to the source well plates. Preferably, each source well plate can correspond to one operational step in the automated process. Alternatively, one operational step in the automated process can correspond to multiple source well plates. It is understandable that once the source plate corresponding to one step in the automated process has completed its task, the next step can proceed.

[0036] In some embodiments, when consumables are depleted, but the source plate corresponding to a certain step in the automated process has not been fully processed, the automated device can send a first instruction. Taking a pick-and-clone scenario as an example, the first instruction can indicate that the required wells in the target plate have been picked and need to be replaced. Upon receiving the first instruction from the automated device, it can be determined that the consumable needs to be replaced. For example, the source plate corresponding to this step may include a 384-well plate, while the consumable may include a 96-well plate. In this step, each well in the source plate needs to be picked and cloned into the consumable. When the source plate has picked and cloned 96 wells into the consumable, all wells in the consumable have been used, while 288 wells in the source plate remain unchopped and cloned. At this point, the automated device can send the first instruction. The automated device can determine how many wells in the source plate need to be picked and cloned using visual methods and record the number of pick-and-clone operations to determine that the consumable is depleted and needs to be replaced. Upon receiving the first instruction from the automated device, it can be determined that the consumable needs to be replaced.

[0037] In other embodiments, when a step in the automated process is completed, i.e., when its corresponding source plate is finished, the next step in the automated process can proceed, i.e., the automated process needs to be performed on a new source plate. Whether consumables need to be replaced can be determined based on the step. Optionally, the need for consumable replacement can be determined based on the parameters of the next step. For example, if the next step after the completed step specifies that consumables need to be replaced, then it can be determined that the consumables need to be replaced. Optionally, the need for consumable replacement can be determined based on the consumable usage in the completed step. For example, if in the completed step, the source plate corresponds to a 96-well plate, and its consumables include a 96-well plate, and the consumables are used up when the step is completed for that source plate, then it can be determined that the consumables need to be replaced. If in the completed step, the source plate corresponds to a 96-well plate, and its consumables include a 384-well plate, and the consumables are not used up when the step is completed for that source plate, then it can be determined that the consumables do not need to be replaced.

[0038] In step S1200, if the consumable needs to be replaced, a second instruction is sent to the control device so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

[0039] For example, if it is determined that the consumables of the automated device need to be replaced, a second instruction can be sent to the control device. The second instruction can indicate that the consumables of the automated device need to be replaced. The control device can be a personal computer, workstation, server, or other device, and can run a project management system that can simultaneously control and schedule multiple automated devices and execution devices. The execution device can include a robotic arm, gripper, etc. When the control device receives the second instruction, it can drive the execution device to replace the consumables of the automated device. In some embodiments, multiple automated devices can use a single execution device, which can move to the vicinity of one of the automated devices to replace the consumables. For example, after receiving the second instruction, the control device can determine which automated device needs to replace its consumables based on the second instruction, and then drive the execution device to replace the consumables of that automated device.

[0040] Optionally, a Gantt chart can be generated based on the operational steps in the automated process. The Gantt chart can be updated when consumables are replaced to show the replacement steps, facilitating user inspection and monitoring of the automated process.

[0041] The above technical solution determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on the first instruction from the automated device or the operational steps in the automated process. If replacement is required, a second instruction is automatically sent to the control device, which then drives the execution device to replace the consumable. This automates consumable replacement without human intervention, improving operational efficiency, avoiding human error, and reducing the workload and safety hazards for workers.

[0042] For example, step S1100 determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, including step S1110.

[0043] In step S1110, before the next running step in the automated process is executed, it is determined whether the consumables need to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step.

[0044] The preceding step in an automated process is the step that has just been completed. After one step is completed and before the next step, the operation information of that step is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced. Taking a cloning scenario as an example, in some embodiments where the consumable is a microplate, the need for replacement can be determined based on the number of cloning operations performed in the completed step and the number of wells on the microplate. For example, if the consumable is a 96-well microplate, and the completed step performed 95 cloning operations, which is less than the number of wells on the consumable, then replacement is not required. The automated device can record the number of cloning operations during the execution of a step, which can be used as operation information for the completed step to determine whether the consumable needs replacement. In other embodiments where the consumable is a microplate, the need for replacement can be determined based on the number of wells on the source plate and the target plate in the completed step. For example, both the source and target plates can be 96-well microplates. Therefore, when this operation step is completed, the holes of the target orifice plate are exhausted, so it can be determined that the consumables need to be replaced.

[0045] The above technical solution determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on the operational information of the previous step before the next step is executed. Since the previous step has already been performed, its operational information is accurate. Therefore, it can automatically and accurately determine whether consumables need to be replaced, allowing for timely replacement and ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the automated process without human intervention.

[0046] For example, before the next running step in the automated process is executed, step S1110 determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step. This includes: in response to receiving a fourth instruction from the control device to execute the next running step, determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step and the operation information of the next running step.

[0047] Once one step in an automated process is completed, the control device can send a fourth instruction to the automated device to drive it to execute the next step. Before the next step is executed, the control device can parse the fourth instruction to obtain the operational information for that next step.

[0048] Based on the operation information of the previous and next steps, it can be determined whether consumables need to be replaced. For example, the operation information of the next step might include that the step requires new consumables, thus indicating that the consumables need to be replaced. As another example, based on the operation information of the previous step, the consumable in the previous step might be a 96-well plate, with 90 wells already used. The operation information of the next step might include that the starting well position of this step needs to be 10 wells apart from the well position in the previous step. Therefore, based on the operation information of the previous step, if the consumables are not replaced, it is impossible to perform the next step with a 10-well interval, thus indicating that the consumables need to be replaced.

[0049] The above technical solution, responding to a fourth instruction, determines whether consumables need replacement based on the operational information from both the previous and next operating steps. Therefore, determining consumable replacement in response to a fourth instruction from the control device ensures timely replacement. Furthermore, determining consumable replacement based on the operational information from both preceding and following steps can meet the more complex actual usage needs of consumables in the next operating step, automatically determining replacement without manual intervention and ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the automated process.

[0050] For example, the consumable can be a target well plate and include multiple wells. An automated process can include numerous operations. Taking a clone picking scenario as an example, the target microbial clone in the source well plate is moved to the target well plate. The target well plate can be a microplate with multiple wells. In other words, the consumable can include a 96-well microplate, a 384-well microplate, etc. Step S1110 determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous step in the next step, including steps S1111 and S1112.

[0051] In step S1111, the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated on in the next running step is determined based on the operation information of the previous running step.

[0052] The operational information of the previous running step may include the usage of consumables. The operational information of the previous running step can be determined by the number of cloning operations recorded by the automated device. In some embodiments, the starting well position in the target well plate to be operated on in the next running step can be determined based on the interval parameter between the well positions of the next running step and the already executed running steps. In other words, the starting well position can be the number of cloning operations of the already executed running steps plus the interval parameter. For example, the target well plate may include a 96-well plate, and the target well plate has undergone 94 cloning operations. If the interval parameter is 2, meaning two wells need to be left empty before executing the next running step, the starting well position should be 97; if the interval parameter is 1, meaning one well needs to be left empty before executing the next running step, the starting well position can be 96. In other embodiments, there is no interval parameter, and the next running step can be executed without an interval. If the target well plate has undergone 94 cloning operations, the starting well position can be 95.

[0053] In step S1112, it is determined whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the starting hole position.

[0054] Taking the target well plate, including the 96-well plate, as an example, if the starting well number is 97, which is greater than the total number of wells on the target well plate, then the consumable needs to be replaced. If the starting well number is 96, which is equal to the total number of wells on the target well plate, then the consumable does not need to be replaced. If the starting well number is 95, which is less than the total number of wells on the target well plate, then the consumable does not need to be replaced.

[0055] The above technical solution, based on the operational information from the previous step, not only determines whether consumables need to be replaced, but also determines the starting position of the hole for the next step. Therefore, this automated device has a higher degree of automation.

[0056] For example, step S1111 above, which determines the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step, includes: first, determining the hole position occupancy status on the target orifice plate after the previous running step is completed; and then, determining the starting hole position based on the hole position occupancy status.

[0057] In some embodiments, the occupancy status of wells on the target plate can be determined based on the number of times the automated device performs a clone-picking operation. For example, if the target plate is a 96-well plate and the automated device performs 90 clone-picking operations on it, it can be determined that 90 wells on the target plate are occupied, leaving 6 unoccupied wells. In other embodiments, the automated device can determine the occupancy status of wells on the target plate visually. For example, it can use visual recognition methods to determine how many wells on the target plate contain liquid; the number of wells containing liquid can be considered occupied wells, and the number of wells without liquid can be considered unoccupied wells.

[0058] The starting hole position can be determined based on the hole occupancy status after the previous operation step is completed. For example, if 90 holes on the target orifice plate are occupied, the starting hole position could be 91. Alternatively, the starting hole position can be determined based on the hole position interval between the next operation step and the completed operation steps. For example, the hole position interval could be 5, and if 90 holes on the target orifice plate are occupied, the starting hole position could be 96.

[0059] The above technical solution determines the starting hole position by analyzing the hole occupancy status on the target orifice plate after the previous step. Since the previous step is complete, the hole occupancy status determined here reflects the actual hole occupancy. This avoids discrepancies between the hole occupancy status determined by the automated process and the actual hole occupancy, thus automatically and accurately determining the starting hole position and ensuring timely replacement of consumables.

[0060] For example, step S1111 above, which determines the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step, includes: first, obtaining the preset number of hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step; then, obtaining the actual hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step; and finally, determining the starting hole position based on the actual hole positions and the preset number of hole positions.

[0061] In some embodiments, during the execution of a step in an automated process, a target object in a source orifice plate is moved to a target orifice plate. The source orifice plate may include a micro-orifice plate. The preset number of orifice positions refers to the number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate operated according to the previous step in the automated process. The actual number of orifice positions refers to the number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate actually operated after the previous step was completed. During the execution of the automated process, the actual number of orifice positions is affected by the number of orifice positions in the source orifice plate that actually contain target objects. If the number of orifice positions in the source orifice plate that actually contain target objects is less than the preset number of orifice positions, then only the movable target objects in the source orifice plate can be moved. In other words, after the previous step is completed, the preset number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate are not all occupied, and the number of actually occupied orifice positions in the target orifice plate is less than the preset number of orifice positions. If the number of movable target objects in the source orifice plate is greater than or equal to the preset number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate, then only the preset number of target objects in the source orifice plate can be moved. In other words, all the preset number of holes in the target orifice plate are occupied, and the actual number of holes in the target orifice plate is equal to the preset number of holes.

[0062] For example, the previous running step operated on 10 preset hole positions in the target orifice plate, while the previous running step operated on 6 movable target objects in the source orifice plate. Therefore, the actual number of hole positions in the target orifice plate operated on in the previous running step is 6. The starting hole position is determined based on the actual number of hole positions and the preset number of hole positions.

[0063] In the first embodiment, the occupancy of the holes in the target orifice plate can be continuous. According to the above example, in the previous running step, the actual holes in the target orifice plate can be holes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 that are occupied. Therefore, the starting hole in the target orifice plate operated in the next running step can be hole 7.

[0064] In the second embodiment, the source orifice plate can be divided into multiple regions, and operations can be performed on the holes in each region. Each region of the source orifice plate can correspond to a region in the target orifice plate. For example, the first region of the source orifice plate includes holes 1 to 5, and the second region includes holes 6 to 10. Again, following the above example, the preset number of holes is 10, and the actual number of holes is 6. The actual holes in the target orifice plate operated on in the previous running step can be holes 1, 2, and 3; holes 6, 7, and 8; and holes 4, 5, 9, and 10 can be unoccupied. Therefore, the starting hole in the next running step can be hole 9.

[0065] In some embodiments, it may be required that there be a gap between the holes in the target orifice plate for each operation. In the above embodiments, no such gap is used as an example. Alternatively, if the gap needs to be reserved, the starting hole position can be determined based on the preset number of holes, the actual number of holes, and the gap. For example, assuming the gap is 5, then in the first embodiment described above, the starting hole position in the target orifice plate could be 7+5=12; in the second embodiment described above, the starting hole position in the target orifice plate could be 9+5=14.

[0066] The above technical solution determines the starting hole position by using the preset number of holes and the actual number of holes in the target orifice plate. The starting hole position can be determined based on the actual execution of the steps in the automated process, thereby automatically determining whether consumables need to be replaced. This allows for automatic replacement of consumables even in complex situations.

[0067] For example, the previous running step is used to move the target object in a portion of the holes in the source orifice plate to the target orifice plate.

[0068] In some embodiments, when the automated process is executed, the target object in the source well plate is moved to the target well plate. The source well plate may include a microwell plate, and the target object may be liquid in the microwell plate. As mentioned above, the source well plate can be divided into multiple regions, and a fixed number of target objects are selected from all wells in each region and moved to the target well plate. For example, the target objects in each region may be different. The fixed number of wells in all regions is the preset number of wells in the target well plate. For example, if the source well plate is divided into 2 regions, and each region needs to move 5 target objects from 5 wells to the target well plate, the preset number of wells is 5*2=10. The number of target objects that can be moved in each region may be less than the preset number of wells corresponding to that region. For example, in one region of the source well plate, only 3 wells may actually be able to move target objects, and the preset number of wells corresponding to that region may be 6. Thus, the actual number of wells in the target well plate operated on in the previous running step may be 3.

[0069] In some embodiments, a gap may be required between the holes in the target orifice plate corresponding to different regions of the source orifice plate. If this gap is required, the starting hole position can be determined based on a preset number of holes, the actual number of holes, and the gap.

[0070] The above technical solution can move a target object from a hole in a specific area of ​​a source orifice plate to a target orifice plate. This enables complex automated processes, and consequently, the automatic replacement of consumables within these complex processes.

[0071] For example, FIG2 shows a schematic flowchart of a consumable replacement method according to the second aspect of the present application. As shown in FIG2, the consumable replacement method of the automated process includes steps S2100, S2200, S2300 and S2400.

[0072] In step S2100, the automation device for executing the automation process sends a first instruction to the first drive device according to the operating steps in the automation process, and the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether the first instruction has been received. Alternatively, the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced according to the operating steps in the automation process. The consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process.

[0073] The first driving device may be a processor running a driver, which can be used to drive the automated device to execute the operating steps in the automated process. Each automated device may have a corresponding driver. In some embodiments, when the operating step being executed by the automated device is not completed and the consumable has been consumed, it may send a first instruction to the first driving device. If the first driving device receives the first instruction, it can determine that the consumable needs to be replaced. If the first driving device does not receive the first instruction, it can determine that the consumable does not need to be replaced. In other embodiments, the first driving device may have relevant parameters of the operating steps in the automated process, and can determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operating steps in the automated process. This is similar to step S1100 above and will not be described again here.

[0074] In step S2200, when consumables need to be replaced, the first drive device sends a second command to the control device.

[0075] If the first drive unit determines that the consumable needs to be replaced, it can send a second instruction to the control unit. The second instruction indicates that the automated device needs to replace the consumable, and its content may include the type of consumable to be replaced, parameters, and other instruction information. The control unit can be a personal computer, workstation, server, or other similar device. It may run a project management system that can simultaneously control and schedule multiple automated devices and execution units.

[0076] In step S2300, the control device sends a third instruction to the execution device based on the second instruction. Upon receiving the second instruction, the control device can parse it to determine the automated device requiring consumable replacement, as well as the type and parameters of the consumable to be replaced. Based on this, a third instruction can be generated and sent to the execution device. The execution device may include a robotic arm, gripper, etc. The third instruction may include relevant parameters indicating that the execution device will perform the consumable replacement operation.

[0077] In step S2400, the consumable is replaced using the execution device based on the third instruction.

[0078] After receiving the third instruction, the actuator obtains the relevant parameters for replacing consumables, so as to replace the consumables of the automatic device that needs to be replaced.

[0079] Optionally, after the actuator completes the replacement of consumables, it can notify the control device that the consumables have been replaced. Then, the control device can notify the first drive device of the automation device to drive the automation device to continue to execute the automation process.

[0080] In the above technical solution, the first drive device determines whether consumables need to be replaced based on a first instruction from the automated device or the operating steps in the automated process. If replacement is required, the first drive device automatically sends a second instruction to the control device, which then sends a third instruction to the execution device to replace the consumables. This automates the replacement of consumables in the automated device, eliminating the need for manual intervention, improving operational efficiency, avoiding human error, and reducing the workload and safety hazards for workers.

[0081] For example, the consumable is a target well plate and includes multiple wells. Automated processes can include a large number of operations. Taking a cloning scenario as an example, a target microbial clone in a source well plate is moved to the target well plate. The target well plate can be a microplate including multiple wells. In other words, the consumable can include 96-well plates, 384-well plates, etc.

[0082] Step S2100 uses an automation device for executing an automation process to send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operation steps in the automation process, including using the automation device to execute the following steps: step S2110, step S2120 and step S2130.

[0083] In step S2110, the number of current holes in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step in the automated process is determined.

[0084] In some embodiments, the number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate operated by the current running step can be determined by the number of operations. For example, the automation device can record the number of operations performed, with each operation occupying one orifice position in the target orifice plate, thereby determining the number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate operated by the current running step, which may be the number of occupied orifice positions in the target orifice plate. In other embodiments, the automation device can determine the number of orifice positions in the target orifice plate operated by the current running step using visual methods. For example, the automation device can determine the number of orifice positions containing liquid in the target orifice plate using visual recognition as the current number of orifice positions.

[0085] In step S2120, the total number of wells in the current target plate is obtained. The total number of wells in the current target plate can be determined by information such as the type and parameters of the current target plate. For example, if the current target plate is a 96-well plate, the total number of wells can be 96; if the current target plate is a 384-well plate, the total number of wells can be 384.

[0086] In step S2130, a first instruction is sent to the first driving device based on the current number of holes and the total number of holes in the target orifice plate operated in the current running step. In some embodiments, when the current number of holes in the target orifice plate operated in the current running step equals the total number of holes, all holes in the target orifice plate are occupied, and a first instruction can be sent to the first driving device to determine that the consumable needs to be replaced. For example, the number of holes can be 96, and the total number of holes can also be 96, in which case all holes in the target orifice plate are occupied. In other words, the target orifice plate, as a consumable, has been consumed and needs to be replaced.

[0087] The above technical solution involves an automated device sending a first instruction to a first drive device based on the current number of holes and the total number of holes in the target perforated plate during the current operating step. The automated device can automatically determine when consumables need replacement without manual intervention, improving operational efficiency, avoiding human error, reducing workload and safety hazards for workers, and ensuring continuous and stable operation of the automated process.

[0088] For example, step S2100, which uses an automation device for executing an automation process to send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the running steps in the automation process, further includes: using the automation device to determine the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step.

[0089] In some embodiments, the automation device can determine the hole position occupied in the target orifice plate when the current operating step is first executed, and this hole position can be the starting hole position. For example, if the target orifice plate has 96 holes and 10 holes have been occupied in the previous operating step, then the starting hole position of the current operating step can be the 11th hole position.

[0090] Step S2130 sends a first instruction to the first driving device based on the current number of holes and the total number of holes in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step, including: Step S2131 sends a first instruction to the first driving device based on the current number of holes and the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step, and the total number of holes.

[0091] The current number of holes in the target orifice plate can be the number of holes actually occupied by the target orifice plate through the current operating step. Based on the starting hole position, the current number of holes, and the total number of holes, it can be determined whether all holes in the target orifice plate are occupied, thus determining whether consumables need to be replaced. If the current number of holes plus the number of holes before the starting hole equals the total number of holes, a first command can be sent to the first drive device to determine that consumables need to be replaced. For example, the target orifice plate can be a 96-hole plate with a total of 96 holes. The current number of holes can be 86, and the starting hole position can be the 11th hole. Therefore, it can be determined that there are 10 holes before the starting hole, which, when added to the current number of holes, equals 96, equaling the total number of holes. In this case, a first command can be sent to the first drive device to determine that consumables need to be replaced.

[0092] The above technical solution utilizes an automated device to send a first command to a first drive device based on the current number of holes and the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate, as well as the total number of holes, to determine whether consumables need to be replaced. This allows for automatic and accurate determination of consumable replacement needs, avoiding manual intervention, and is applicable to complex situations, thus improving the robustness of the method.

[0093] By way of example, according to a third aspect of this application, a consumable replacement device for an automated process is also provided. FIG3 shows a schematic block diagram of a consumable replacement device 300 for an automated process according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG3, the consumable replacement device 300 for the automated process includes a determining module 310 and a sending module 320.

[0094] The determining module 310 is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether a first instruction has been received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process. The sending module 320 is used to send a second instruction to the control device when the consumable needs to be replaced, so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

[0095] For example, the determining module 310 includes a first determining submodule. The first determining submodule is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step in the next running step before the next running step is executed in the automated process.

[0096] For example, the consumable is a target orifice plate and includes multiple orifice positions. The first determining submodule includes a first determining unit and a second determining unit. The first determining unit is used to determine the starting orifice position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next operating step based on the operation information of the previous operating step. The second determining unit is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the starting orifice position.

[0097] For example, the first determining unit includes a first determining subunit and a second determining subunit. The first determining subunit is used to determine the hole occupancy status on the target perforated plate after the previous running step is completed. The second determining subunit is used to determine the starting hole position based on the hole occupancy status.

[0098] For example, the first determining unit includes a first acquiring subunit, a second acquiring subunit, and a third determining subunit. The first acquiring subunit is used to acquire the preset number of hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step. The second acquiring subunit is used to acquire the actual hole positions in the target orifice plate operated in the previous running step. The third determining subunit is used to determine the starting hole position based on the actual hole positions and the preset number of hole positions.

[0099] For example, the previous running step is used to move the target object in a portion of the holes in the source orifice plate into the target orifice plate.

[0100] For example, the first determining submodule includes a third determining unit. The third determining unit is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operation step and the operation information of the next operation step, in response to receiving a fourth instruction from the control device to execute the next operation step.

[0101] By way of example, according to a fourth aspect of this application, an electronic device is also provided. FIG4 shows a schematic block diagram of an electronic device 400 according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG4, the electronic device 400 includes a processor 410 and a memory 420. The memory 420 stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor 410, are used to perform a consumable replacement method for an automated process as described above.

[0102] By way of example, according to a fifth aspect of this application, an automation system is also provided. FIG5 shows a schematic block diagram of an automation system 500 according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG5, the automation system 500 includes an automation device 510, a first drive device 520, a control device 530, and an execution device 540.

[0103] An automation device 510 is used to execute an automated process and send a first instruction to a first driving device according to the operating steps in the automated process. The automation device 510 may include any device suitable for executing an automated process, such as a pipetting workstation or a microbial cloning and picking device. The first driving device 520 is used to determine whether a consumable needs to be replaced based on the first instruction or the operating steps in the automated process, and if the consumable needs to be replaced, sends a second instruction to a control device. The first driving device 520 may include a processor with a driver program. The control device 530 is used to send a third instruction to an execution device based on the second instruction. The control device 530 may include a personal computer, workstation, server, or other device with a project management system. The execution device 540 is used to replace the consumable based on the third instruction. The execution device may include a robotic arm, gripper, etc.

[0104] By way of example, according to a sixth aspect of this application, a storage medium is also provided, on which program instructions are stored, which, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described above. The storage medium may, for example, include an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), a portable read-only memory (CD-ROM), a USB memory, or any combination of the above storage media. The storage medium may be any combination of one or more computer-readable storage media.

[0105] By way of example, according to a seventh aspect of this application, a computer program product is also provided, including computer program instructions, which, when run, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described above.

[0106] Those skilled in the art can understand the specific implementation schemes and beneficial effects of the above-mentioned consumable replacement devices, electronic devices, automation systems, storage media, and computer program products for automated processes by reading the relevant descriptions of the above-mentioned consumable replacement methods. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0107] Example

[0108] Example 1. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process, characterized by comprising:

[0109] Whether the consumable needs to be replaced is determined based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process;

[0110] When the consumable needs to be replaced, a second instruction is sent to the control device so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

[0111] Example 2. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to Example 1, characterized in that determining whether the consumables need to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from the automated device for executing the automated process or based on the operating steps in the automated process includes:

[0112] Before the next step in the automated process is executed, it is determined whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous step.

[0113] Example 3. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to Example 1 or 2, characterized in that the consumable is a target orifice plate and includes multiple orifices;

[0114] The step of determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operation step in the next operation step includes:

[0115] Based on the operation information of the previous operation step, determine the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next operation step;

[0116] Based on the starting hole position, determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced.

[0117] Example 4. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, characterized in that determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes:

[0118] Determine the hole occupancy status on the target plate after the previous running step is completed;

[0119] The starting hole position is determined based on the hole position occupancy status.

[0120] Example 5. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, characterized in that determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes:

[0121] Obtain the number of preset holes in the target perforated plate operated in the previous running step;

[0122] Obtain the actual hole positions in the target perforated plate operated in the previous running step;

[0123] The starting hole position is determined based on the actual hole position and the preset number of hole positions.

[0124] Example 6. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, characterized in that the preceding running step is used to move the target object in a portion of the holes in the source orifice plate to the target orifice plate.

[0125] Example 7. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, characterized in that, before the next running step in the automated process is executed, determining whether the consumables need to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous running step of the next running step includes:

[0126] In response to receiving a fourth instruction from the control device to execute the next operating step, the system determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operating step and the operation information of the next operating step.

[0127] Example 8. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process, characterized in that it includes:

[0128] An automated device for executing the automated process sends a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operation steps in the automated process, and the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether the first instruction is received; or, the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced according to the operation steps in the automated process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process.

[0129] When the consumable needs to be replaced, the first drive device sends a second command to the control device.

[0130] The control device sends a third instruction to the execution device according to the second instruction;

[0131] The consumable is replaced using the execution device based on the third instruction.

[0132] Example 9. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to Example 8, characterized in that the consumable is a target orifice plate and includes multiple orifices;

[0133] The step of using an automated device to execute the automated process to send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operational steps in the automated process includes: using the automated device to perform the following operations:

[0134] Determine the number of current holes in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step in the automated process;

[0135] Obtain the total number of holes in the current target perforated plate;

[0136] Based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate and the total number of holes operated in the current running step, the first instruction is sent to the first driving device.

[0137] Example 10. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to Example 8 or 9, characterized in that, the step of sending a first instruction to a first drive device using an automated device for executing the automated process according to the running steps in the automated process, further includes: using the automated device to determine the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step;

[0138] The step of sending the first instruction to the first driving device based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate and the total number of holes operated in the current running step includes:

[0139] Based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate operated by the current running step, the starting hole position, and the total number of holes, the first instruction is sent to the first driving device.

[0140] Example 11. A consumable replacement device for an automated process, characterized in that it comprises:

[0141] A determining module is configured to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process;

[0142] The sending module is used to send a second instruction to the control device when the consumable needs to be replaced, so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

[0143] Example 12. An electronic device, comprising: a processor and a memory, characterized in that,

[0144] The memory stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor, are used to perform a consumable replacement method for an automated process as described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 10.

[0145] Example 13. An automated system, comprising:

[0146] An automated device is used to execute an automated process and send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operating steps in the automated process;

[0147] The first driving device is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced according to the first instruction or the operation steps in the automated process, and if the consumable needs to be replaced, it sends a second instruction to the control device.

[0148] The control device is used to send a third instruction to the execution device according to the second instruction;

[0149] An execution device for replacing the consumables based on the third instruction.

[0150] Example 14. A storage medium storing program instructions, characterized in that the program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0151] Example 15. A computer program product, comprising computer program instructions, characterized in that the computer program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0152] Although exemplary embodiments have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various changes and modifications can be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this application as claimed in the appended claims.

[0153] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0154] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0155] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of this application may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0156] Similarly, it should be understood that, in order to streamline this application and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, features of this application may sometimes be grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in the description of exemplary embodiments of this application. However, this approach should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed application requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the corresponding claims, its inventive point lies in solving the corresponding technical problem with features fewer than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of this application.

[0157] Those skilled in the art will understand that, apart from the mutual exclusion of features, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and all processes or units of any method or apparatus so disclosed can be combined in any combination. Unless otherwise expressly stated, each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature that serves the same, equivalent, or similar purpose.

[0158] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features but not others included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, in the claims, any one of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0159] The various component embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, or as software modules running on one or more processors, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that microprocessors or digital signal processors (DSPs) can be used in practice to implement some or all of the functions of some modules in the consumable replacement device for the automated process according to embodiments of this application. This application can also be implemented as an apparatus program (e.g., a computer program and computer program product) for performing part or all of the methods described herein. Such an implementation of this application can be stored on a computer-readable medium, or can take the form of one or more signals. Such signals can be downloaded from an Internet website, provided on a carrier signal, or provided in any other form.

[0160] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of this application and not restrictive, and that those skilled in the art can devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. This application can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc., does not indicate any order. These words can be interpreted as names.

[0161] The above description is merely a specific embodiment or illustration of the embodiments of this application. The scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. The scope of protection of this application shall be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process, characterized in that, include: Whether the consumable needs to be replaced is determined based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process; When the consumable needs to be replaced, a second instruction is sent to the control device so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

2. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether a first instruction has been received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operational steps in the automation process includes: Before the next step in the automated process is executed, it is determined whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous step.

3. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 2, characterized in that, The consumable is a target perforated plate and includes multiple perforations; The step of determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operation step in the next operation step includes: Based on the operation information of the previous operation step, determine the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next operation step; Based on the starting hole position, determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced.

4. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 3, characterized in that, Determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes: Determine the hole occupancy status on the target plate after the previous running step is completed; The starting hole position is determined based on the hole position occupancy status.

5. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 3, characterized in that, Determining the starting hole position in the target orifice plate to be operated in the next running step includes: Obtain the number of preset holes in the target perforated plate operated in the previous running step; Obtain the actual hole positions in the target perforated plate operated in the previous running step; The starting hole position is determined based on the actual hole position and the preset number of hole positions.

6. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 5, characterized in that, The preceding operating step is used to move the target object in a portion of the holes in the source orifice plate to the target orifice plate.

7. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 2, characterized in that, Before the next step in the automated process is executed, determining whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous step includes: In response to receiving a fourth instruction from the control device to execute the next operating step, the system determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on the operation information of the previous operating step and the operation information of the next operating step.

8. A method for replacing consumables in an automated process, characterized in that, include: An automated device for executing the automated process sends a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operation steps in the automated process, and the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether the first instruction is received; or, the first drive device determines whether the consumable needs to be replaced according to the operation steps in the automated process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automated process. When the consumable needs to be replaced, the first drive device sends a second command to the control device. The control device sends a third instruction to the execution device according to the second instruction; The consumable is replaced using the execution device based on the third instruction.

9. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 8, characterized in that, The consumable is a target perforated plate and includes multiple perforations; The step of using an automated device to execute the automated process to send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operational steps in the automated process includes: using the automated device to perform the following operations: Determine the number of current holes in the current target orifice plate operated by the current running step in the automated process; Obtain the total number of holes in the current target perforated plate; Based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate and the total number of holes operated in the current running step, the first instruction is sent to the first driving device.

10. The method for replacing consumables in an automated process according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method of using an automated device for executing the automated process to send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operation steps in the automated process further includes: using the automated device to determine the starting hole position in the current target orifice plate operated by the current operation step; The step of sending the first instruction to the first driving device based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate and the total number of holes operated in the current running step includes: Based on the current number of holes in the current target perforated plate operated by the current running step, the starting hole position, and the total number of holes, the first instruction is sent to the first driving device.

11. A consumable replacement device for an automated process, characterized in that, include: A determining module is configured to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced based on whether a first instruction is received from the automation device for executing the automation process or based on the operating steps in the automation process, wherein the consumable is gradually consumed during the execution of the automation process; The sending module is used to send a second instruction to the control device when the consumable needs to be replaced, so that the control device drives the execution device to replace the consumable.

12. An electronic device, comprising: Processor and memory, characterized in that, The memory stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

13. An automated system, comprising: An automated device is used to execute an automated process and send a first instruction to a first drive device according to the operating steps in the automated process; The first driving device is used to determine whether the consumable needs to be replaced according to the first instruction or the operation steps in the automated process, and if the consumable needs to be replaced, it sends a second instruction to the control device. The control device is used to send a third instruction to the execution device according to the second instruction; An execution device for replacing the consumables based on the third instruction.

14. A storage medium on which program instructions are stored, characterized in that, The program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

15. A computer program product comprising computer program instructions, characterized in that, The computer program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a method for replacing consumables in an automated process as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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