Laboratory Module Optical Alignment for Drift Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated laboratory systems face challenges in precisely and efficiently aligning modular components with the transport system, particularly in large facilities, due to mechanical limitations and drift issues over time, which complicates service and maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A module for automated laboratory systems that includes a module connector, a detector for position data acquisition, a processor for calculating position deviations, and an alignment device to align the module to a target position, enabling precise and adaptive alignment without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical alignment methods are used for modular components, then initial positioning can be achieved, but high precision alignment cannot be maintained due to mechanical drift over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment systems with an optical measurement system. A measurement device with detectors and markers creates an optical reference frame that is not subject to mechanical drift. The system uses optical fields instead of mechanical contacts to define and maintain alignment precision, eliminating the fundamental limitation of mechanical systems while maintaining the ability to position and reposition modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measurement device continuously monitors the position of modules relative to the transport system using optical markers. The system measures actual positions, compares them to target positions, and provides correction information to the alignment device, enabling dynamic compensation for any drift and maintaining high precision alignment over time.
2Ease of repair
If modular components are made accessible for service and maintenance, then serviceability improves, but alignment precision and system integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is integrated into the modular component itself, allowing the module to perform its own alignment verification and positioning functions. This self-service capability enables maintenance personnel to service modules independently while the system automatically maintains alignment precision through the integrated measurement and alignment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By using optical measurement instead of mechanical alignment references, the system allows modules to be removed and reinstalled without compromising alignment precision. The optical markers and detectors provide a non-contact reference system that is not affected by mechanical wear or installation variations, maintaining precision while improving serviceability.
3Productivity
If alignment processes require manual intervention, then flexibility is maintained, but alignment time and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs alignment automatically through the measurement device that continuously monitors module positions and the alignment device that autonomously adjusts modules to target positions. This self-aligning capability eliminates manual intervention while maintaining precision, significantly improving alignment speed and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed-loop feedback system automatically detects position deviations through optical measurement and triggers corrective alignment actions without human intervention. The system continuously monitors and self-corrects, enabling fully automated alignment processes that are both fast and precise.
Data Source
AI summary
A module for an automated laboratory system is disclosed. The module comprises a module connector configured to releasably connect to a component of the automated laboratory system, a detector at least configured to detect at least one component marker located at the component so as to obtain position data of the module indicating an actual position of the module, a processor configured to calculate a position deviation of the module from a target position defined by the component based on the position data and to calculate position alignment data based on the position deviation, and a alignment device configured to align the module to the target position based on the position alignment data. Further, an automated laboratory system and a method for aligning a module are disclosed.