Sample Container Sorting with In-Holder Attribute Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample container sorting devices require manual sorting based on visual distinctions and take too long due to individual handling of containers, necessitating automation for faster processing.
Innovation Solution
A sample container sorting device with a container holding/lifting unit, transport unit, and identification unit that collectively identifies and sorts multiple containers by attributes, using a control unit to manage the sorting process efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sorting based on visual distinction is used, then sorting accuracy is maintained, but processing time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical handling with an automated identification system using barcode scanners or optical recognition devices. The control unit automatically reads container attributes and controls the lifting mechanism to sort containers without human intervention, significantly reducing sorting time while maintaining accuracy through digital identification rather than visual estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service sorting where containers are automatically identified and sorted based on their own attributes (barcode, color, shape). The control unit processes identification information and autonomously controls the lifting mechanism to place containers in correct positions, eliminating the need for manual sorting operations and reducing processing time.
2Productivity
If individual handling of containers is performed, then sorting precision is maintained, but processing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple container handling operations into a single automated process. The control unit simultaneously manages identification, attribute reading, and positioning for multiple containers through one coordinated lifting mechanism operation, rather than handling each container separately. This integrated approach improves efficiency while maintaining precision through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control unit continuously monitors container identification results and adjusts the lifting mechanism accordingly. After identifying container attributes through barcode scanning or optical recognition, the control unit receives feedback information and automatically positions containers with precise control, ensuring both high efficiency and accurate sorting.
3Productivity
If automated identification is implemented, then processing speed increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed as a multi-functional device that integrates identification processing, attribute reading, sorting decision-making, and mechanism control into a single system component. This universal approach increases sorting speed through automation while minimizing the number of separate devices needed, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a sample container sorting device capable of sorting sample containers in a short time. Therefore, a sample container sorting device according to the present invention includes a container holding/lifting unit that holds a sample container containing a sample and moves the sample container in a vertical direction, a transport unit that moves the container holding/lifting unit in a horizontal direction, a container identification unit that identifies an attribute of the sample container, and a control unit that controls the container holding/lifting unit, the transport unit, and the container identification unit, and that sorts a plurality of the sample containers from a first rack in which the sample containers having different attributes are mixed to different second racks for each attribute, in which the control unit causes the container identification unit to identify attributes of the plurality of sample containers in a state where the plurality of sample containers are held by the container holding/lifting unit.