Augmented Reality Lab Resource Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current laboratory resource tracking methods are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring manual barcode scanning, often necessitating operators to remove gloves and use both hands, and are limited by small screen sizes and the need to be physically present near instruments, failing to aggregate laboratory data effectively.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method using an augmented reality device with imaging sensors and identification units to detect and identify laboratory resources, retrieve information from a data server, and display augmented reality information, including holograms, allowing for hands-free and efficient tracking and access to resource data without the need for physical proximity to instruments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual barcode scanning is used with tablet devices or smartphones, then information about laboratory resources can be accessed, but operators must remove gloves and use both hands, reducing safety and operational efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehands-free operationVSAvoidsafety in hazardous environment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the barcode scanning function, display interface, and data processing capabilities into a single wearable device integrated into the laboratory coat. This merging eliminates the need to hold separate devices like tablets or smartphones, allowing hands-free operation while maintaining safety protocols by keeping gloves on.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a virtual copy of the laboratory resource information (barcode data, resource details, instructions) and displays it directly on the wearable device mounted on the coat. This virtual representation allows operators to access all necessary information without physically interacting with the resources or removing protective equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Loss of information

If operators physically approach instruments to scan barcodes, then resource information can be obtained, but operators must be in close proximity to potentially hazardous instruments and resources

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to resource informationVSAvoidexposure to hazardous materials

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The wearable device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the laboratory resources. It captures barcode information from a distance and relays the data to the operator without requiring direct physical contact or close proximity to hazardous materials, thus mediating the interaction to eliminate exposure risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the mechanical action of physically approaching and manually scanning barcodes with an automated optical scanning system integrated into the wearable device. The scanner automatically detects and reads barcode information from a distance, substituting the need for mechanical proximity with automated remote sensing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Weight of moving object

If small screen devices like smartphones are used, then portability is maintained, but screen size is too small for clear viewing of laboratory resource information

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice portabilityVSAvoiddisplay screen area

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from the conventional handheld smartphone form factor to a wearable display integrated into the laboratory coat. This dimensional change allows the display to be positioned in the operator's field of view, effectively increasing the usable display area without adding significant weight or requiring hand holding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The wearable device serves multiple functions: it displays barcode information, provides resource details, shows instructional content, and maintains portability by being integrated into the coat. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate devices while providing a larger effective display area through the wearable interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12119109B2Method and devices for tracking laboratory resources

Publication Date: 2024.10.15 ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS OPERATIONS INC

AI summary

A computer-implemented method for tracking laboratory resources is disclosed. The laboratory resource comprises an identification feature. The method comprises an identification step comprising detecting the laboratory resource in the laboratory with an imaging sensor of an augmented reality device and identifying the laboratory resource with an identification unit of the augmented reality device by receiving identification information from the identification feature, a data retrieving step comprising retrieving information about the identified laboratory resource from a data server via a communication interface of the augmented reality device, and a tracking step comprising generating and displaying augmented reality information on a display device of the augmented reality device. The augmented reality information comprises a hologram comprising the retrieved information about the identified laboratory resource and/an instruction depending on the retrieved information about the identified laboratory resource.