Robotic Head Sample Rack Loading Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual loading of sample racks into laboratory instruments is prone to errors due to the need for precise alignment and insertion, which can be challenging without automated mechanisms that add complexity, cost, and size to the instruments.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing the existing robotic head with a pipettor of the laboratory instrument to load sample racks into an operating position, allowing for precise alignment and identification tag reading without the need for additional complex hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual loading of sample racks is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to alignment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing robotic head with pipettor to perform dual functions: both liquid handling and sample rack loading. The robotic head autonomously positions the sample rack by detecting alignment marks and adjusting its position, eliminating the need for separate automated loading mechanisms while maintaining precision through self-alignment capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic head is designed to perform multiple functions: it handles liquid samples with the pipettor and also loads sample racks by detecting alignment marks and positioning the rack. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated sample rack loading mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining loading precision through the same control system
2Manufacturing precision
If automated sample rack loading mechanisms are added, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic head is designed to perform multiple functions: it handles liquid samples with the pipettor and also loads sample racks by detecting alignment marks and positioning the rack. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated sample rack loading mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining loading precision through the same control system
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing robotic head with pipettor to perform dual functions: both liquid handling and sample rack loading. The robotic head autonomously positions the sample rack by detecting alignment marks and adjusting its position, eliminating the need for separate automated loading mechanisms while maintaining precision through self-alignment capabilities
3Device complexity
If manual loading is used, then device complexity remains low, but reliability deteriorates due to operator errors from tiredness and lack of attention
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing robotic head with pipettor to perform dual functions: both liquid handling and sample rack loading. The robotic head autonomously positions the sample rack by detecting alignment marks and adjusting its position, eliminating the need for separate automated loading mechanisms while maintaining precision through self-alignment capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates alignment marks that provide visual feedback to the robotic head during sample rack loading. The robotic head detects these marks and uses the information to automatically adjust its positioning, ensuring accurate alignment without requiring operator attention or interpretation, thereby eliminating errors from tiredness or lack of focus
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a method of operating a laboratory instrument (100, 1000), wherein the laboratory instrument is configured for receiving a sample rack (122) with one or more sample tubes (126), wherein the laboratory instrument comprises a robotic head (106) for bringing a pipettor (108) into fluidic contact with the one or more sample tubes when the sample rack is in an operating position (122), wherein the robotic head is configured for loading the sample rack into the operating position, and wherein the method comprises the steps of: receiving (200) the sample rack by the laboratory instrument; and loading (202) the rack into the operating position using the robotic head.