Automated Sample Tube Sorting by Geometric Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
In laboratory settings, automated handling of sample tubes in storage racks is complicated by varying tube sizes, heights, diameters, contents, and expiration dates, leading to manual intervention and inefficiencies in storage and retrieval processes.
Innovation Solution
An automated system that retrieves sample tubes from primary racks and sorts them based on geometric parameters, content, and expiration date, using robotic arms and image analysis to ensure proper storage in standardized racks, preventing damage and optimizing storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If sample tubes are placed in racks by the client without sorting, then handling efficiency is maintained at basic level, but automated handling becomes impossible and manual discharge is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary sorting of sample tubes by geometric parameters before they enter the main automated handling process. The sorting device categorizes tubes into groups based on diameter, height, and shape characteristics, preparing them in advance for automated rack insertion without requiring complex real-time discrimination during the main handling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling system is divided into distinct functional segments: a sorting device that separates tubes by geometric parameters, a transfer mechanism that moves sorted tubes to racks, and a storage system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the sorting device handling classification and the transfer mechanism handling automated insertion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If racks contain tubes with different sizes, heights, diameters, contents, and expiration dates, then client requirements are met, but automated insertion becomes impossible and manual discharge is required
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting device applies different sorting criteria to different groups of tubes based on their specific characteristics. Tubes with similar geometric parameters are grouped together and assigned to specific rack positions, ensuring that each local group within a rack has uniform properties suitable for automated handling, while the overall rack system maintains versatility for different tube types.
3Productivity
If standardized storage racks are used, then storage efficiency is improved, but tubes with varying geometric parameters may not fit properly
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting device measures the geometric parameters (diameter, height, shape) of each sample tube and changes the assignment parameters accordingly. Tubes with different geometric parameters are assigned to different rack positions or rack types, allowing standardized racks to accommodate varying tube sizes through parameter-based sorting and positioning rather than physical rack modification.
Data Source
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AI summary
A laboratory storage and retrieval system and a method to handle laboratory sample tubes are disclosed. The laboratory storage and retrieval system for storing sample tubes and retrieving stored sample tubes comprises a rack handler section (12) and a storage section (14), the rack handler section (12) comprising a transport system and a determination unit, wherein the transport system receives and transports incoming primary racks (PR) containing sample tubes (S) to the determination unit for determining at least one given parameter of the sample tubes (S) relating to predetermined sort criteria in order to have the transport system unload the sample tubes from the analysed primary rack (PR) and resort the unloaded sample tubes into appropriate storage racks (SR) depending on the determined sample tubes' sort criteria parameter for storage in the storage section (14) in the storage racks.