Moveable Hood Imaging for 360-Degree Sample Container Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chemical analyzers face challenges with large footprints, stray light interference, and limited space for optical components due to conveyance mechanisms, which affect image quality and efficiency in capturing full 360-degree views of sample containers.
Innovation Solution
Implement a moveable hood with openings that encloses the sample container, allowing external imaging devices to capture images through these openings while blocking stray light, and includes actuators to transition between open and closed states for optimal imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple cameras and backlights are arranged around the imaging location to capture 360-degree images, then image coverage and analysis capability are improved, but the footprint area and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cameras and backlights into a single integrated imaging station. The cameras are mounted on a common housing structure with backlights positioned around the imaging location, merging what would otherwise be separate imaging stations into one compact unit that captures 360-degree images while reducing overall footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of imaging components to a three-dimensional configuration. Cameras are positioned at multiple heights and angles around the imaging location, with backlights arranged vertically and horizontally, utilizing spatial dimensions to achieve comprehensive coverage without expanding the horizontal footprint.
2Extent of automation
If a track or transport device is included to move sample containers through the imaging location, then automated processing capability is improved, but the footprint area and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging station housing serves multiple functions: it houses cameras, backlights, and the track mechanism; it provides structural support; and it acts as a light-tight enclosure. By making the housing multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate components and structures, thereby reducing overall footprint while maintaining automated processing capability.
3Measurement precision
If a light-tight enclosure is created to block stray light from affecting captured images, then image quality is improved, but the footprint area and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light-tight enclosure is merged with the housing structure that contains the cameras and backlights. Rather than being a separate component, the light-tight walls are integrated into the existing housing design, eliminating the need for additional space and reducing overall footprint while still providing effective stray light blocking.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of imaging a sample container and/or a specimen in a sample container. The method includes enclosing at least a portion of a sample container with a moveable hood, the moveable hood having a wall with one or more openings extending between an interior of the moveable hood and an exterior of the moveable hood. Image data of the sample container is generated using one or more imaging devices positioned exterior to the moveable hood. The one or more imaging devices have a line of sight to the sample container through the one or more openings. Automated specimen testing systems, optical characterization apparatus, and methods of measuring characteristics of sample containers are provided, as are other aspects.