Sample Transport Apparatus Identification Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-analysis systems, sample misidentification during transport between analysis apparatuses is a significant issue, leading to increased labor and costs due to the need for multiple identification devices and larger installation spaces, which reduces the benefits of aggregating analysis apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A transport apparatus with judging units at each collection position to verify sample presence and a transport confirming unit using individual identification data and predetermined transport amounts to ensure accurate sample transport, avoiding misidentification and maintaining a compact system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple identification devices are installed at each analysis apparatus to prevent sample misidentification, then sample identification reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates sample identification functionality into a single identification device located at the transport apparatus, rather than installing separate identification devices at each analysis apparatus. The transport apparatus reads the identification code on the sample container and tracks the sample throughout the transport process, eliminating the need for multiple redundant identification devices while maintaining reliable sample identification across all analysis stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport apparatus performs multiple functions: it transports sample containers between analysis apparatuses, reads identification codes on samples, tracks sample positions, and manages transport routing. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional system, the patent reduces the overall number of components needed while improving system efficiency and reducing installation space requirements.
2Reliability
If identification devices are installed at each analysis apparatus, then sample misidentification is prevented, but installation space and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the identification function into the transport apparatus, which serves as a centralized identification station. This single location handles all sample identification needs for the entire analysis system, eliminating the need for space-consuming distributed identification devices at each analysis apparatus while maintaining accurate sample tracking throughout the workflow.
3Productivity
If sample transport order is exchanged among analysis apparatuses to optimize analysis efficiency, then productivity is improved, but sample misidentification risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport apparatus incorporates a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors sample positions and updates the transport control unit. When samples need to be redirected to different analysis apparatuses or processed in a different order, the system receives feedback about current sample locations and automatically adjusts transport routing while maintaining accurate tracking of each sample's identity and destination, preventing misidentification even when transport orders change.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic sample transport system where the transport order and routing can be flexibly adjusted based on analysis priorities and apparatus availability. The transport control unit dynamically recalculates optimal transport sequences and redirects samples accordingly, while the identification system continuously tracks each sample's new destination, enabling efficient reordering without compromising identification accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport apparatus for transporting a sample as an analysis objective in a state of being accommodated in a sample container comprises a judging unit which judges whether or not the sample container is positioned at each of first and second collection positions for collecting the sample from the sample container in order to perform each of first and second analysis processes and which outputs each of judgment results thereof as first and second collection position data; and a sample container identification unit which performs individual identification of the sample container in a transport route for the sample container and which outputs an identification result thereof as individual identification data. Further, it is confirmed whether or not the transport of the sample container to the second collection position is adequate on the basis of the first collection position data, the second collection position data, the individual identification data, and data to indicate a predetermined transport amount calculated in accordance with the first and second collection positions.