Automated Specimen Archival System With Robotic Retrieval
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for archiving and retrieving specimens are labor-intensive, time-consuming, error-prone, and inefficient, leading to potential loss, damage, and increased costs, with limited storage capacity and liability concerns.
Innovation Solution
An automated system comprising a movement mechanism and software program that enables the efficient archiving and retrieval of specimens using a robotic arm and archival structure with receptacles, allowing for tracking and storage of specimens of varying sizes, shapes, and weights, and maximizing storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual handling and storage methods are used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity and error rates increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated retrieval system independently locates, retrieves, and delivers specimens without requiring manual intervention. The software program autonomously tracks specimen locations and controls the retrieval mechanism, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring continuous human oversight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated retrieval mechanism that uses software control and automated positioning systems. The system substitutes human-operated mechanical processes with computer-controlled automation, including automated tray positioning, specimen location calculation, and retrieval mechanism actuation.
2Volume of stationary object
If conventional storage arrangements are used, then setup simplicity is maintained, but storage space utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes storage space by utilizing three-dimensional arrangement of specimen trays within the container. Instead of simple linear or surface storage, the invention employs vertical stacking and multi-level positioning, effectively using the vertical dimension and spatial depth to maximize storage capacity within the available volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage container is designed to accommodate multiple types of specimen trays with varying sizes and configurations. The system can store different specimen types, orientations, and container formats within the same storage unit, making the storage system universal and adaptable to diverse specimen storage needs.
3Productivity
If manual retrieval processes are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but time consumption and error rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and storing the locations of all specimens in the software program before retrieval is needed. When a specimen needs to be retrieved, the system already has the location information ready, eliminating the need for manual searching and allowing immediate retrieval. The system also pre-positions trays and prepares the retrieval mechanism in advance.
4Reliability
If extensive manual handling is required, then operational control is maintained, but specimen loss and damage risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated retrieval system acts as an intermediary between the storage container and the user, handling all specimen retrieval operations. This intermediary mechanism minimizes direct human contact with specimens, reducing the risk of accidental damage or loss while maintaining operational control through software programming and controlled access protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention include a system and methods for archiving and/or retrieving specimens. Embodiments of the system of the present invention include a movement mechanism, an archival structure, and a software program. Embodiments of the device are configured to acquire a specimen, transport the specimen to a unique location in the archival structure, and store information regarding specimen identification and storage location.