Automated Sample Routing Controller for Laboratory Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample processing systems burden users with the task of separating and routing sample racks that require retesting, storage, or discarding, as they cannot differentiate between properly tested, retestable, and untested samples, leading to inefficient handling and increased user workload.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing apparatus that includes a preprocessing unit for reading sample barcodes, a transporting unit for moving samples, and multiple collection units that sort samples based on analysis results and barcode reading success, allowing for automated routing of samples to appropriate destinations, reducing user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If all sample racks are collected in a single rack collection part, then the system is simple to operate, but the user burden increases due to manual separation of different sample types
Solution Approach 1:
The single rack collection part is segmented into multiple specialized collection units: a first collection unit for samples requiring retesting by the same apparatus, a second collection unit for samples requiring retesting by different apparatus, and a third collection unit for samples needing re-affixing of bar code labels. This segmentation automatically directs different sample types to appropriate destinations, eliminating manual separation burden while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically classifying and routing sample racks to appropriate collection units based on analysis results and barcode reading status. The control unit autonomously determines which collection unit each sample rack should be directed to, without requiring user intervention for separation and routing decisions
2Extent of automation
If multiple collection units are introduced to sort samples automatically, then user burden is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system is divided into distinct functional modules (first collection unit, second collection unit, third collection unit), each handling specific sample types. This modular segmentation enables automatic sorting functionality while keeping each unit relatively simple in structure, balancing automation extent with device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Each collection unit is designed with universal functionality to handle sample racks, allowing the system to process different sample types through standardized interfaces. The control unit universally manages routing decisions for all sample types, reducing overall system complexity despite multiple specialized units
Data Source
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AI summary
This application discloses a sample processing apparatus comprising: a preprocessing unit for performing predetermined preprocessing on a sample container; a transporting unit for transporting the sample container on which the preprocessing unit has performed the predetermined preprocessing; a sample processing unit for processing a sample contained in the sample container transported by the transporting unit; a plurality of container collection units for collecting respective sample containers transported by the transporting unit; and a collection controller for controlling, according to a result of the predetermined preprocessing by the preprocessing unit, at least one of the transporting unit and the plurality of container collection units such that the sample container transported by the transporting unit is collected in one of the plurality of container collection units.