Rotatable Camera Holder for Precise Laboratory Sample Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory automation systems for processing samples are not highly reliable and are difficult to maintain, particularly in accurately determining properties of laboratory samples and containers using digital imaging.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory system comprising a digital camera with a camera holder that allows precise rotational adjustment around the optical axis, enabling reliable imaging and data processing of sample containers and samples, along with a control unit for determining properties like liquid levels, colors, and states, while being easy to maintain and adjust.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the digital camera is adjusted in both translational and rotational directions simultaneously, then the adjustment flexibility is improved, but the adjustment complexity and difficulty of maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment process is segmented into two independent stages: first translational adjustment along the optical axis, then rotational adjustment around the optical axis. This segmentation allows each adjustment type to be performed independently without interfering with the other, reducing overall complexity while maintaining full flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera holder provides dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable components that enable both translational and rotational movements. The holder structure includes sliding mechanisms for translational adjustment and rotating mechanisms for angular adjustment, allowing the system to adapt to different imaging requirements.
2Measurement precision
If the camera holder allows rotational adjustment of the digital camera, then the imaging accuracy is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera holder incorporates a rotating mechanism that allows the digital camera to be adjusted angularly around the optical axis. This dynamic rotational capability enables precise alignment of the camera with the optical axis, improving imaging accuracy without requiring complex fixed structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera holder acts as an intermediary device between the fixed mounting structure and the digital camera. It provides the rotational adjustment function while isolating the complexity from the main system, making the camera easily adjustable without complicating the overall system structure.
3Ease of repair
If the camera holder enables easy adjustment of the digital camera, then the ease of maintenance is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera holder is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently adjusted and maintained. The translational and rotational adjustment mechanisms are segmented into distinct movable parts, allowing maintenance personnel to access and adjust the camera without disassembling the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable design with movable components allows the camera to be easily repositioned and realigned during maintenance operations. The dynamic nature of the holder structure enables quick adjustments without requiring complex tools or extensive disassembly procedures.
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 system provides reliable and efficient determination of sample properties, improving maintenance ease and accuracy in sample processing, ensuring high reliability and precision in laboratory operations.
Implementation Method 1
The digital camera is adapted to generate digital image data of the laboratory sample containers received in a respective laboratory sample container holder and of the contained laboratory samples
Data Source
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
Laboratory system (100), comprising: - laboratory sample container holders (1) being adapted to receive laboratory sample containers (2) containing laboratory samples (3), - a digital camera (4) having an optics (5), - wherein the optics (5) has an optical axis (OA), and - wherein the digital camera (4) is adapted to generate digital image data of the laboratory sample containers (2) received in the laboratory sample container holders (1), when the laboratory sample container holders (1) are positioned at a predetermined imaging position (IP), - a camera holder (6) being adapted to hold the digital camera (4), and - a control unit (10) being adapted to determine properties of the laboratory sample containers (2) and/or properties of the laboratory samples (3) contained in the laboratory sample containers (2) based on the digital image data, - wherein the camera holder (6) rotatably holds the digital camera (4), such that the digital camera (4) can rotate around an axis of rotation (AR), wherein the camera holder (6) is geometrically formed such that the axis of rotation (AR) is identical to the optical axis (OA) of the optics (5), when the digital camera (4) is held by the camera holder (6).