Mobile Bio-Surveillance Robot for Autonomous Surface Sampling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current bio-surveillance methods lack efficient and timely detection of pathogens in environments, which can lead to delayed identification of outbreaks and increased social and economic costs.
Innovation Solution
A bio-surveillance system comprising a mobile robot and a docking station, where the mobile robot is equipped with a sample collection system that uses collection mediums like swabs to gather samples from surfaces, and these samples are then analyzed at the docking station for the presence of pathogens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional bio-surveillance methods are used, then pathogen detection can be performed, but detection efficiency and timeliness are insufficient leading to delayed outbreak identification
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot autonomously navigates through environments, automatically collects samples from surfaces using integrated collection mediums, and transports them to analysis locations without requiring human intervention at each step, thereby improving detection efficiency and reducing time delays
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical sampling methods with an automated mobile robot system that uses controlled mechanical mechanisms for sample collection and transport, enabling faster and more consistent detection operations
2Extent of automation
If manual sample collection methods are used, then pathogens can be detected, but the process is labor-intensive and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a transport platform and an integrated sample collection device with various collection mediums (swabs, sponges, pads) that can be deployed across different surface types, thereby achieving high automation without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sample collection system is segmented into modular components including interchangeable collection mediums and standardized sample containers, allowing the robot to handle different sampling scenarios while maintaining a manageable overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile robot may include one or more driven wheels, one or more sensors, and a sample collector. The sample collector may include a collection medium holder, a plurality of collection mediums disposed within the collection medium holder, and a collection medium applicator configured to releasably couple to a respective collection medium disposed within the collection medium holder.