Robotic Sample Handling with Adaptive Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems handling sample containers in laboratory settings face inefficiencies in throughput and error minimization due to reliance on fixed movement rules, which can lead to suboptimal handling and increased operational time.
Innovation Solution
A robotic handling device equipped with a gripping element, drive mechanism, and sensing devices that collect optical imaging and ranging data to dynamically recognize and respond to the arrangement of sample containers within a rack, allowing for precise and adaptive handling based on real-time data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed movement rules are used for robotic handling, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary sensing and recognition of the sample container arrangement before handling operations begin. The sensing device captures images and data about the actual positions of sample containers in the rack, and this information is used to generate an optimized handling plan in advance, allowing the robotic system to adapt to real configurations rather than following fixed predetermined paths
Solution Approach 2:
The control system transitions from static fixed movement rules to dynamic adaptive planning. The system continuously senses the actual arrangement of sample containers and dynamically generates optimized movement paths based on real-time conditions, allowing the robotic arm to adapt its trajectory and handling sequence to maximize throughput while maintaining simplicity in the physical hardware
2Ease of operation
If fixed movement rules are used for robotic handling, then ease of operation is improved, but errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates continuous feedback through sensing devices that monitor the actual positions and states of sample containers in the rack. This feedback information is used to verify and adjust the handling plan, ensuring that the robotic system responds to real conditions rather than relying on potentially incorrect fixed assumptions, thereby reducing errors while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Before execution, the system performs preliminary verification by sensing the actual arrangement of sample containers and comparing it with the planned handling sequence. This preliminary check allows the system to detect and correct potential errors before they occur, maintaining high reliability without complicating the operational interface
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 solution enhances throughput and reduces errors by enabling the robotic handling device to accurately detect and handle sample containers without relying on predefined rules, improving the efficiency and accuracy of sample container handling processes.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one sensing device is configured to collect sensing data related to the sample container rack, the sensing data comprising optical imaging data and ranging data
Data Source
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AI summary
Summarizing the invention, a robotic handling device for handling sample containers, wherein the sample containers are or are to be arranged within a sample container rack, is provided. The robotic handling device comprises: a gripping element for gripping and releasing the sample containers; a drive mechanism configured to move the gripping element; and at least one sensing device connected to the gripping element, wherein the at least one sensing device is configured to collect sensing data related to the sample container rack, the sensing data comprising optical imaging data and ranging data; wherein the drive mechanism is configured to move the gripping element based on recognition data related to the sample container rack, the recognition data being obtained from the sensing data.