Automated Sampling Device Sample Identification System

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Solution Overview

Problem

In laboratory settings, there is a need for efficient automated systems to analyze large numbers of chemical or biochemical samples, where existing automated sampling devices lack effective sample identification and management capabilities, leading to inefficiencies in sample processing and analysis.

Innovation Solution

A sample identification system for automated sampling and dispensing devices, which includes a sample probe and an identifier capture device that scans sample identifiers on vessels to generate data signals for sample identification, allowing for precise sample management and processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automated sampling devices are used to analyze large numbers of samples, then productivity is improved, but sample identification and management capabilities are insufficient leading to errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample analysis throughputVSAvoidsample identification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated sample identification through self-scanning capabilities. The identifier capture device automatically scans and reads sample identifiers without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to identify and manage samples autonomously during the automated sampling process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual sample identification and verification processes are replaced with an automated optical scanning system. The identifier capture device uses optical scanning technology to automatically read and capture sample identifiers, eliminating the need for manual sample tracking and reducing human error in sample identification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual sample identification is performed, then sample management accuracy is improved, but operator assistance is required reducing productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample identification accuracyVSAvoidsample processing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated sample identification through self-scanning capabilities. The identifier capture device automatically scans and reads sample identifiers without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to identify and manage samples autonomously during the automated sampling process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The automated sampling device integrates multiple functions including sampling, identifier scanning, and data capture into a single unified system. The identifier capture device serves multiple purposes by automatically reading various types of sample identifiers (barcodes, labels) and integrating this information into the sample management system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10684296B1Automated sampling device
Publication Date: 2020.06.16 ELEMENTAL SCI
  • US10684296B1 patent drawing
  • US10684296B1 patent drawing
  • US10684296B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sample identification system for an automated sampling and dispensing device is described. In an example implementation, the sample identification system includes a sample probe configured to contact a sample positioned within a sample vessel. Further, the sample identification system includes an identifier capture device configured to measure a sample identifier associated with the sample vessel and generate a data signal in response thereto, where the data signal corresponds to an identity of the at least one sample. During operation, the identifier capture device scans a sample holder, a sample vessel, or a table top of the automated sampling and dispensing device to measure the sample identifier and to generate the data signal in response thereto.