Optical Autosampler Sample Rack Identification for Orientation Accuracy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In laboratory settings, the mechanized analysis of large numbers of chemical or biochemical samples using autosamplers often leads to errors due to the lack of proper sample identification and orientation, resulting in misplacement, misidentification, and skewed data analysis.
Innovation Solution
A sample identification system for an automated sampling device, comprising a sample holder with identifiers and an identifier capture device that detects these identifiers to generate a data signal corresponding to the orientation of the sample holder relative to the surface, ensuring accurate sample recognition and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sample holders are used without identification systems in autosamplers, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to misidentification and orientation errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying/imaging to capture images of sample holders and their identifiers. The identifier capture device creates visual copies of barcodes, RFID tags, or other identification markers on sample holders, which are then processed by image recognition software to determine sample identity and orientation without adding physical complexity to the sampling mechanism itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical identification methods (physical keys, shaped interfaces) with optical and electronic detection systems. Instead of using mechanical features to encode sample information, the system uses cameras, image processors, and software algorithms to read visual identifiers and determine orientation, reducing mechanical complexity while improving precision
2Productivity
If manual sample identification and orientation verification are performed, then measurement precision improves, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate due to time-consuming processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automated identification and orientation verification. The identifier capture device automatically detects sample holder identifiers and determines orientation without requiring manual intervention. The image processing software autonomously interprets the captured images and provides feedback to the autosampler controller, allowing the system to self-correct and self-verify sample placement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the identifier capture device continuously monitors sample holder orientation and identification. The system compares detected orientation against required orientation, and the autosampler controller adjusts sample holder position or rejects misplaced samples based on this feedback, ensuring continuous verification without manual intervention
3Reliability
If automated sampling is performed without orientation detection, then processing speed increases, but reliability deteriorates due to misalignment and skewed data analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary orientation detection and verification before the autosampler begins processing samples. The identifier capture device captures images of sample holder identifiers and determines orientation in advance, allowing the system to pre-position sample holders correctly or reject them before sampling begins, preventing time loss during the actual sampling process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing layer between the physical sample holder and the autosampler processing. The image capture device and software act as intermediaries that translate physical orientation into digital information, which the autosampler controller then uses to adjust positioning or processing parameters, ensuring accurate data analysis without slowing down the core sampling operation
Data Source
AI summary
A sample identification system for an automated sampling device is described. A system embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a sample holder having a plurality of apertures configured to receive a plurality of sample vessels therein, the sample holder having one or more corresponding sample holder identifiers positioned proximate to the sample holder; and an identifier capture device configured to detect the one or more sample holder identifiers positioned proximate to the sample holder and generate a data signal in response thereto, the data signal corresponding to at least an orientation of the sample holder relative to a surface on which the sample holder is positioned.