Automated Plasma Sample Transfer With RFID Traceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of taking plasma samples from collection containers is prone to errors, including the risk of mixing samples from different containers, which can lead to contamination and incorrect identification of donor samples.
Innovation Solution
A device that automatically transfers liquid samples from collection containers to vacuum containers using a robot with pincer terminals, accompanied by a labelling system to ensure sample traceability, utilizing conveyor belts or other automated feeding methods and RFID labels for accurate identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual sample taking is performed, then operational flexibility is maintained, but sample mixing errors and contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses RFID tags and automated reading mechanisms where the containers themselves carry their identification information. The automated device reads the RFID tags and performs sample transfer without human intervention, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating manual handling errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated robotic system that uses RFID electromagnetic fields for identification. The robotic arm with cannula automatically transfers samples based on RFID-identified container sequences, substituting human mechanical operations with automated electromechanical systems.
2Reliability
If automated sample taking is implemented, then sample mixing errors are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated device performs multiple functions: it reads RFID tags for identification, sequences containers based on donor information, transfers samples using robotic arm and cannula, and maintains traceability all in one integrated system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and minimizes overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary that carries identification information between the container and the reading device. This intermediary enables automated identification and tracking without requiring complex direct communication systems between the robotic arm and container labels.
3Productivity
If manual handling is used, then equipment cost is lower, but handling time and contamination risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum containers automatically draw plasma samples through the cannula using their own vacuum pressure, eliminating the need for external pumping equipment. This self-service mechanism reduces equipment complexity and cost while maintaining automated processing speed and minimizing contamination risks through closed-system transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses vacuum pressure (pneumatic principle) to drive the plasma sample from the collection container through the cannula into the vacuum container. This pneumatic mechanism enables automated sample transfer without mechanical pumps or complex fluid control systems, reducing equipment cost while maintaining high processing speed and low contamination risk.
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 device ensures sample traceability, reduces handling time, and minimizes the risk of contamination by automating the sample collection and labelling process, ensuring that samples are correctly identified and matched to their corresponding donor containers.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum container (4) or vacuum tube, into which the sample of liquid will be automatically deposited
Data Source
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AI summary
Device for taking samples of liquid from a collection container, characterised in that it comprises a support for liquid sample collection containers; a support for a set of containers into which the sample of liquid will be deposited; a support for connection elements; a container handling mechanism; and a device for inserting the containers into which the sample of liquid will be deposited into the connection element.