Sample Analyzer Volume Detection Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers require manual user intervention to recognize specimen shortages, leading to inefficiencies in time and effort when the sample volume in a container is insufficient for analysis.
Innovation Solution
A sample analyzer system that includes an imaging device to determine the sample volume, a measuring device to aspirate and measure the sample, a transporting device to move the sample container, and a controller to automate transport operations based on the obtained sample volume information, allowing for automated detection and management of specimen shortages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used to detect and respond to specimen shortage, then the system structure remains simple, but user time and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device captures an image of the specimen container before analysis to determine the specimen volume in advance. The controller compares this volume with the required volume and determines whether the specimen is sufficient before the analysis process begins, enabling preliminary detection and response to potential shortages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects specimen shortage by comparing the measured specimen volume with the required volume using the imaging device and controller. The transporting device then automatically responds by transporting an additional specimen container when shortage is detected, eliminating the need for manual user intervention.
2Productivity
If automated transport operation is implemented based on sample volume information, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device measures the actual specimen volume in the container and provides this information to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to determine whether the specimen volume is sufficient and automatically controls the transporting device to retrieve an additional specimen container when needed, creating a closed-loop control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of checking specimen volume and retrieving additional containers is replaced by an automated system using imaging technology (optical field) to measure volume and electronic control to operate the transporting device, substituting mechanical inspection with optical measurement and electronic control.
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 enables automated detection and management of specimen shortages, reducing user intervention and improving efficiency by ensuring that sample analysis can proceed without manual intervention when specimen volumes are insufficient.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device for imaging a sample container which has translucency and contains a sample
Implementation Method 2
a sample container which has translucency and contains a sample
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is to present a sample analyzer, comprising: an imaging device for imaging a sample container which has translucency and contains a sample; a measuring device for aspirating the sample contained in the sample container and measuring the aspirated sample; a transporting device for transporting the sample container to a supply position for supplying the sample contained in the sample container to the measuring device; a sample volume obtainer for obtaining sample volume information relating to volume of the sample in the sample container, based on an image obtained by imaging the sample container by the imaging device; and a transport controller for controlling the transporting device to perform a transport operation in accordance with the sample volume information obtained by the sample volume obtainer.