Automated Fecal Sample Extraction With Optical QC and Odor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fecal sample collection and extraction systems are manual, prone to human exposure to foul odors, and face challenges with inconsistent stool loading and transfer, leading to potential contamination and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
An automated system with a robotic arm, quality control module, and exhaust module to ensure accurate stool loading, minimize odor exposure, and maintain laboratory hygiene, featuring a primary and secondary loading module, quality control through image detection, and odor filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual operation is used for stool loading and transfer, then the technician can closely inspect the loading process to ensure accuracy, but the technician is exposed to foul odors and potential microbial contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical inspection system with an automated optical inspection system using a camera and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of the stool loading process and automatically analyzes them to verify proper loading, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection while protecting technicians from odor exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated extraction system that acts as a barrier between the technician and the fecal sample. The system includes an extraction tube with a sealed environment where the stool sample is processed, allowing automated manipulation while keeping the technician isolated from direct exposure to odors and microbes.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If automated system is used for stool loading and transfer, then technician exposure to foul odors is minimized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional automated system that combines several functions into integrated components. The extraction tube serves multiple purposes: it contains the stool sample, provides a sealed environment, facilitates automated manipulation, and enables optical inspection. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-verification capabilities through automated image analysis that inspects loading quality without human intervention. The system automatically detects loading errors and can trigger re-loading sequences, making the system self-correcting and reducing the need for complex manual monitoring mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual extraction procedure is used, then the process can be flexible and adaptable to different stool consistencies, but the productivity and throughput are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic automated system that can adapt its operation based on real-time conditions. The robotic arm adjusts its manipulation forces and movements based on feedback from sensors and image analysis, allowing it to handle different stool consistencies effectively while maintaining high throughput capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous processing of multiple samples through automated sequencing. While one sample is being processed, the system can prepare the next sample or clean components, eliminating idle time between samples and significantly increasing overall throughput compared to manual sequential processing.
4Manufacturing precision
If secondary extraction system is used, then quantitative sample collection can be achieved, but the device requires precise manual loading which is difficult with inconsistent stool consistency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical loading with an automated robotic system that uses controlled mechanical forces to load the stool sample into the extraction tube. The robotic arm can apply precise, repeatable forces to press the stool onto the collection device, ensuring consistent loading regardless of stool consistency variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through optical inspection during the loading process. Cameras capture images of the loading action, and image processing algorithms analyze whether the stool is being properly loaded. This feedback allows the system to adjust its loading forces and movements dynamically to achieve consistent quantitative collection.
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
Enables high-throughput, automated, and odor-minimized fecal sample collection and extraction, ensuring precise sample transfer and reducing human exposure to unpleasant odors while maintaining laboratory cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
an exhaust module with fan and odor filter that removes odor from the system
Implementation Method 2
a quality control module with image detection system that analyzes the quality of stool load
Data Source
AI summary
Automated systems and methods for the quantitative collection and extraction of a fecal sample, the system including: a primary loading module configured to receive a plurality of primary stool specimen containers, and a secondary loading module configured to receive a plurality of secondary extraction tubes, each with a collection wand; a robotic arm for loading stool on the wand and inserting the stool-loaded wand into the extraction tube; a quality control module configured to assess and confirm whether loading of the collection wand meets a preset acceptable tolerance and if so, assisting with positioning of the robotic arm for accurate insertion of the stool loaded wand into the selected extraction tube; an exhaust module; and executable software loaded into the system and in communication with a database that pairs the primary stool specimen container with a corresponding secondary extraction tube(s).