Automated Analyzer Robot for Reagent Loading and Unloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analyzers require manual operator intervention for tasks such as loading and unloading reagent storage, which hampers efficient automation of sample processing.
Innovation Solution
An automatic analyzer and work support device that includes a self-propelled robot with a communication unit, traveling unit, hand, and arm to autonomously perform loading and unloading of storage members, such as reaction vessels, detergent bottles, and reagent vessels, using image recognition and barcode reading to reduce manual work.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a robot arm is used to transport reagent bottles automatically, then transportation automation is improved, but manual work for loading and unloading on the reagent storage side still remains
Solution Approach 1:
The work support device enables the reagent storage to serve itself by automatically performing loading and unloading operations. The device includes a hand that grasps storage members and a traveling unit that moves the hand between the storage member holder and the reagent storage, allowing the system to replenish reagents autonomously without operator intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The work support device acts as an intermediary between the storage member holder and the reagent storage. It includes a hand for grasping storage members, a traveling unit for movement, and a control unit for coordinating operations, thereby mediating the transfer of reagents automatically and eliminating the need for direct manual handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If operators manually perform loading and unloading operations, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent storage system performs self-service through the work support device, which automatically detects when reagent bottles are depleted and replenishes them. The control unit monitors reagent levels and coordinates the traveling unit and hand to perform loading operations, enabling continuous operation without manual intervention and maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors the state of reagent storage and storage members. When reagent bottles are depleted or need replacement, the control unit receives this information and automatically initiates the replenishment process by controlling the traveling unit and hand to load new bottles, ensuring continuous operational efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer that can reduce manual work by an operator. The present invention provides an automatic analyzer that includes a drive mechanism that is driven to use a specimen or reagent stored in a storage member, a controller that controls the drive mechanism, and a communication unit that communicates with a work support device that performs work support to support work of loading and/or unloading the storage member. The controller controls the drive mechanism to perform a preparation operation for the work and controls the communication unit to transmit an instruction signal for the work support to the work support device.