Robotic Slide Handling for Automated Loading and Eject Button Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide imaging apparatuses face challenges in automating the insertion of slides into a slide reception and pressing the eject button of the imaging device, limiting the efficiency and throughput of slide processing.
Innovation Solution
A slide imaging apparatus with a storage device and a supply device, including a robotic arm, that automates the loading and unloading of slides, allowing simultaneous insertion into the slide reception and pressing of the eject button, using a protrusion to interact with the imaging device buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a robotic arm is used to automate slide insertion, then automation extent is improved, but the robotic arm cannot reach the eject button due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent functional modules: a first robotic arm dedicated to slide insertion and a second robotic arm dedicated to button operation. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific task without spatial constraints imposed by the other, resolving the reachability issue while maintaining high automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second robotic arm is designed with multi-functionality, capable of both inserting slides and pressing buttons. This universal approach allows a single robotic system to handle multiple operations that were previously required to be performed manually, achieving full automation of both slide loading and ejection sequences.
2Productivity
If manual slide insertion is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but processing efficiency and throughput are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service automation where robotic arms autonomously perform slide insertion and button pressing without human intervention. The first robotic arm automatically loads slides into the imaging device, and the second robotic arm automatically presses the eject button, enabling the system to service itself and dramatically increasing processing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arms perform preliminary actions by pre-positioning slides and pre-pressing buttons before the imaging process begins. This preliminary automation eliminates waiting time and manual intervention during critical processing phases, thereby increasing overall system productivity and throughput.
3Productivity
If automated slide handling is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the automation into two specialized robotic arms, each with a specific function (slide insertion and button pressing), the system achieves high productivity while managing complexity through functional specialization. This modular approach is simpler than designing a single complex multi-functional robotic system.
Data Source
AI summary
A slide imaging apparatus includes: at least one imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample mounted on a slide, wherein the imaging device comprises an operating button; a storage device loadable with a plurality of slides and configured to store the slides; and a supply device configured to supply the slides from the storage device to the imaging device, wherein the supply device is configured to press the operating button.