Barcode Reader Tracking on Sample Racks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assay instruments face challenges in accurately tracking samples and reagents due to the need for actuators or mechanisms to move samples in front of a barcode reader, which adds cost and complexity and can affect reliability.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that use a moveable support with fiducial machine-readable marks and an image capture device to associate information from machine-readable marks on sample racks and receptacles, allowing for decoding and tracking without the need for actuators, using a hand-held or automatic image-based barcode reader.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If actuators or mechanisms are used to move samples in front of a barcode reader, then sample tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the sample to the barcode reader, the patent inverts the approach by moving the barcode reader to the sample. The handheld or automatic image-based barcode reader is brought to the moveable support (rack) to read marks on samples at their various positions, eliminating the need for complex actuators to move samples while maintaining tracking accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical actuator system with an image-based reading system. By using cameras or image-based barcode readers to capture and decode marks on samples, the system substitutes complex mechanical movement mechanisms with optical/electronic imaging technology, reducing device complexity while preserving tracking precision
2Measurement precision
If actuators or mechanisms are used to move samples in front of a barcode reader, then sample tracking accuracy is improved, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the actuator mechanisms from the system entirely. By eliminating the mechanical components responsible for moving samples, the patent removes the reliability issues associated with these mechanisms while maintaining tracking accuracy through the alternative approach of bringing the reader to the sample
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the barcode reader to service multiple sample positions by moving to each location rather than requiring samples to be moved to a fixed reading position. This self-service approach where the reader adapts to sample locations rather than samples adapting to reader locations reduces mechanical complexity and improves reliability
3Device complexity
If a handheld or automatic image-based barcode reader is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image-based reading to create optical copies of the barcode information. By capturing images of the marks on samples and decoding them digitally, the system achieves accurate sample identification without physical contact or complex mechanical positioning, maintaining precision while reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional approach (moving sample along a linear path to a fixed reader) to a two-dimensional approach where the reader can access samples at multiple positions on the moveable support. This dimensional change allows the simpler image-based reader to achieve the same tracking accuracy that would require complex mechanical systems in the traditional configuration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables accurate and cost-effective tracking of samples and reagents by capturing images of fiducial and machine-readable marks, reducing instrument complexity and improving reliability while maintaining precise location association.
Implementation Method 1
capturing a first image of the moveable support as the moveable support moves from a first position to a second position using an image capture device
Data Source
AI summary
A method of reading machine-readable marks on a movable support and object of a sample instrument. The method includes capturing a first image of the moveable support as the moveable support moves from a first position to a second position using an image capture device; determining whether a first fiducial machine-readable mark on the moveable support is in the first image; determining, when the first fiducial machine-readable mark is in the first image, whether a first machine-readable mark on a first object coupled to the moveable support is in the first image at a predetermined position relative to the first fiducial machine-readable mark; and associating information decoded from the first machine-readable mark on the first object with a first location on the moveable support associated with the first fiducial machine-readable mark.