RFID Tag Embedding in Labware Pegs for Deck Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual identification of labware in biochemical and chemical processing is inefficient, and existing automated systems face challenges with RF interference and crosstalk in metal instrument decks, limiting effective automated labware location and identification.
Innovation Solution
Integration of pre-programmed RFID tags embedded within labware locating pegs and RFID readers positioned on an instrument deck, allowing for automatic identification of labware location, orientation, and identity without manual intervention, even in environments prone to RF interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If RFID tags are used for automated labware identification, then identification efficiency is improved, but RF interference and crosstalk in metal instrument decks cause reliability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (aperture through the metal deck and dedicated RFID reader positioned at the aperture) that allows RF signals to pass through the metal instrument deck without direct contact. This mediator enables communication between the RFID tag on the labware and the reader while minimizing RF interference and crosstalk from the metal environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the identification system into distinct components: RFID tags embedded in individual labware items, apertures at specific deck locations, and dedicated RFID readers positioned at each aperture. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently, reducing overall system complexity and improving reliability by isolating potential sources of interference.
2Device complexity
If manual identification methods are used, then system complexity is reduced, but identification speed and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service identification where the RFID tag on the labware automatically communicates its identification information to the RFID reader when placed on the deck. This eliminates the need for manual scanning or data entry, allowing the labware to identify itself automatically, thereby improving identification speed without requiring complex external intervention.
3Measurement precision
If RFID tags are exposed on labware surface, then identification capability is improved, but protection from chemical spills is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the RFID tag inside the labware item or within a protective housing attached to the labware, rather than placing it on the exposed surface. This nesting approach protects the RFID tag from chemical spills and physical damage while maintaining its identification capability, as the tag remains accessible to the RFID reader through the aperture mechanism.
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
Enables reliable and efficient automated identification of labware presence, location, and orientation on an instrument deck, reducing the risk of collisions and improving sample handling robotics efficiency, while protecting RFID tags from chemical spills.
Implementation Method 1
Methods and systems for locating and identifying labware using radio-frequency identification tags
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Methods and systems for automatically locating and identifying labware using radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags are described herein. The methods and systems include a plurality of RFID tags (pre-programmed with unique data codes) that are associated with labware (or labware holders). For example, the RFID tags can be embedded within the locating pegs of the labware (or labware holders). The methods and systems also include a plurality of RFID tag readers that mount near known locations of an instrument deck which receives the labware. The RFID tag readers automatically scan for the presence of RFID tags such that when a piece of labware is added to the instrument deck, and then report to a processing device the specific known location on deck where each tag was found, as well as the unique data code of each tag. Using this information, the methods and systems determine one or more of the location, orientation, and identity of the received labware.