Laboratory Sample Transfer Station With Barcode-Guided Robotic Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory systems lack an efficient and safe mechanism for the automated, traceable, and error-free transfer of patient samples into an access-restricted testing area, which is crucial for minimizing contamination and ensuring precise laboratory diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A transfer station equipped with an enclosed operator compartment, image acquisition unit, label reader, industrial robot, and closure removal device, allowing for automated sample handling, scanning, and precise positioning of samples into machine-specific holders, while maintaining a safe separation of manual and automated processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual sample handling is performed by laboratory personnel, then flexibility and adaptability in sample processing are improved, but contamination risks and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer station is divided into two distinct zones: an operator area for manual sample introduction and a protected area for automated processing. This spatial segmentation allows laboratory personnel to handle samples flexibly in the operator area while the protected area maintains a controlled environment that prevents contamination during automated transfer and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer station acts as an intermediary device between manual sample introduction and automated analyzer processing. It includes a sample input depot for manual loading, a transfer mechanism with light curtain monitoring, and integration with the automated analyzer, thereby mediating between human operation and automated processing while maintaining safety and traceability.
2Productivity
If automated sample handling is implemented, then productivity and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer station is designed as a multi-functional device that combines sample input reception, barcode scanning, light curtain safety monitoring, automated transfer mechanisms, and integration with the analyzer system. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single transfer station unit, the system achieves high automation and productivity while managing overall system complexity through functional integration.
3Measurement precision
If traceability measures are implemented through barcode scanning and monitoring, then sample identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer station is equipped with a barcode reader that automatically scans and records sample identification codes as samples are introduced into the system. This preliminary action of capturing traceability information at the point of entry ensures accurate sample identification from the outset, eliminating the need for complex monitoring systems to track samples throughout the entire process.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer station includes a data processing unit that receives and processes data from the barcode reader, maintaining a digital record of sample identification and tracking information. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate traceability by continuously monitoring and recording sample status, allowing the system to verify sample identity at each processing stage without requiring overly complex external monitoring systems.
4Reliability
If light curtain safety monitoring is installed, then safety and protection of automated components are improved, but device complexity and processing interruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
A light curtain is installed as an intermediary safety device between the operator area and the protected area. The light curtain creates an invisible safety barrier that automatically detects the presence of objects or hands in the transfer zone, preventing the automated transfer mechanism from operating when someone is present. This intermediary safety system protects automated components and personnel without requiring complex physical barriers or manual safety protocols.
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
The transfer station enhances safety and efficiency by reducing human interaction with samples, ensuring traceability, minimizing contamination risks, and improving productivity through automated error detection and streamlined sample processing.
Implementation Method 1
monitored by a light curtain, for the manual insertion of patient samples
Implementation Method 2
an image acquisition unit for capturing images of the sample containers
Implementation Method 3
reading the data labels, for example, using barcode readers
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a transfer station for a laboratory system for automated laboratory medical sample analysis, which enables the controlled transfer of patient samples between an operator area (2) and a containment area (1) of the transfer station. Patient samples are introduced via an operator chamber (4) in the operator area (2), from which the patient samples can be automatically transferred by an industrial robot (21) into sample repositories (10) within the containment area (1). Sample holders (11) positioned in the sample repositories (10) that are specific to the system serve as receivers for the patient samples for automated transfer into fully automated analyzers of the laboratory system.