Robotic Sample Carrier Positioning With Dynamic Profile Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robotic sample analysis and processing systems are not designed to handle constantly changing work that requires flexible carrier positions and object arrangements, limiting their adaptability and precision.

Innovation Solution

A robotic system with a positioning area featuring an elongate profile element and coupling means that allows carriers to be hung at various positions, coupled with a control unit for precise storage and control of these positions, enabling flexible and precise positioning of carriers and objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If carriers are fixed in predetermined positions on a platform or rail, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the system cannot handle constantly changing work requiring flexible carrier positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in carrier positioningVSAvoidcomplexity of positioning system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from fixed carrier positions to a dynamic positioning system where carriers can be moved to any position along the profile element. The robot can dynamically adjust its position and the carriers can be repositioned as needed, enabling the system to handle constantly changing work requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If multiple carriers are arranged in one plane and approached by the robot in order, then the system is easy to operate, but the robot cannot access objects with pinpoint accuracy when carriers are repositioned

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of robot access to objectsVSAvoidease of carrier reconfiguration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit stores the exact position of each carrier and object in the system, providing feedback to the robot about the current configuration. This allows the robot to accurately locate and access objects even when carriers are repositioned, maintaining pinpoint accuracy while simplifying the operation of carrier reconfiguration through automated position tracking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If carriers are locked in predetermined positions, then the system is stable and simple, but reconfiguration of the system is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of system reconfigurationVSAvoidtime for carrier repositioning
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables dynamic repositioning of carriers along the profile element without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration procedures. Carriers can be quickly moved to different positions and locked into place, significantly improving productivity while minimizing time loss compared to traditional fixed-position systems that require complete system re setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2367009B1Sample analysis and/or sample processing system
Publication Date: 2015.07.29 LCTECH GMBH
  • EP2367009B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2367009B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2367009B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Sample analysis and/or sample processing system with a robotic system comprising the following components: a. at least one carrier in which one or more objects are held, b. a positioning area with a plurality of defined positions for positioning the at least one carrier, c. a robot for approaching the object(s) in the carrier, and d. a control unit for storing the position of the carrier and the objects held therein and for controlling the robot. The positioning area has an elongated profile element with a plurality of coupling positions stored in the control unit, and the carrier provides coupling means for attaching the carrier to the elongated profile element at a specific coupling position.