Labware Identification Using Segmented Optical Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated laboratory systems face challenges in accurately identifying labware on their work decks using existing detection methods, which are often computationally costly and require expensive high-resolution cameras, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition and processing of multiple images using different optical recording devices, where the first image is processed with a less computationally intensive algorithm to determine if further identification is needed, and if so, a second image is processed with a more accurate algorithm to enhance labware identification accuracy without increasing overall computational cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-resolution cameras and accurate detection methods are used to improve labware identification accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into multiple stages using different types of cameras. A first camera captures initial images for basic identification, and a second camera captures additional images only when needed for ambiguous cases. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high accuracy without always using the most complex detection components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial identification with a simple camera first, and only applies the more complex second camera when the first camera's identification is insufficient. This partial action approach avoids the excessive use of high-resolution cameras for all cases, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining accuracy when needed.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution cameras and accurate detection methods are used to improve labware identification accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection function across two different cameras rather than using a single expensive high-resolution camera. The first camera handles routine identification tasks, while the second camera is reserved for challenging cases, thereby reducing the overall system cost while maintaining high identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a combination of a less expensive first camera and a more expensive second camera, using the cheaper camera for the majority of detection tasks. This approach replaces the need for always using expensive high-resolution cameras, making the system more cost-effective while preserving accuracy when necessary.
3Measurement precision
If computationally intensive algorithms are used to improve identification accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computational processing into two levels: basic identification algorithms run on images from the first camera for quick results, and more advanced algorithms are applied only to images from the second camera when additional identification is needed. This segmentation maintains high accuracy while improving overall detection speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies computationally intensive algorithms only partially - specifically, only when the first camera's identification is ambiguous or insufficient. For the majority of clear cases, simpler and faster algorithms are used, thereby maintaining high productivity while preserving identification accuracy when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect the invention relates to a computer implemented method for identifying a labware item (310, 320, 330, 340, 350), the labware item (310, 320, 330, 340, 350) comprising a first optical feature and a second optical feature, wherein the method comprises the steps of acquiring of a first image of the labware item with at least a first optical recording device (150), the first image displaying at least a portion of the first optical feature; acquiring a second image of the labware item (310, 320, 330, 340, 350) with at least a second optical recording device (160), the second image displaying at least a portion of the second optical feature; and identifying the first optical feature in the first image by using at least a first identification algorithm thereby obtaining first identification data, the first identification data encoding first information on the first optical feature and information indicative of whether at least a further identification is needed, wherein if, according to the information encoded in the first identification data, the at least further identification is not needed, the method further comprises the step of identifying the labware item by using at least the first information on the first optical feature, and wherein if, according to the information encoded in the first identification data, the at least further identification is needed, the method further comprises the steps of identifying the second optical feature in the second image by using at least a second identification algorithm thereby obtaining second identification data, the second identification data encoding information on the second optical feature; and Identifying the labware item (310, 320, 330, 340, 350) by using at least the information on the second optical feature.