Biological Slide Loader With Integrated Code Reading and Gravity Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading and reading identification codes on slides with biological samples in clinical diagnostics are inefficient, requiring separate manual positioning and scanning steps, leading to errors and increased process times due to overlapping codes and manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A loading machine with insertion means that temporarily retain each slide for reading its identification code before releasing it into a compartment, using gravity and coordinated sensors to ensure simultaneous positioning and reading, reducing errors and time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If slides are manually positioned in trays and then scanned separately, then identification codes can be read, but the process time increases and errors occur due to overlapping codes and manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the slide positioning function and code reading function into a single integrated operation. The reading means are positioned to read codes during the insertion process itself, eliminating the need for separate manual positioning and scanning steps. This merging of functions directly resolves the contradiction by achieving both accurate code reading and reduced process time simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The reading means are positioned and configured in advance to read identification codes during the slide insertion process. By preparing the reading system beforehand to operate concurrently with positioning, the patent eliminates the need for subsequent separate scanning operations, thereby reducing total process time while maintaining reading accuracy.
2Reliability
If slides are arranged manually in increasing order according to patient code, then traceability is maintained, but the operation requires great care and precision increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical arrangement process with an automated system. The insertion means automatically position slides in the correct sequence while reading means verify identification codes, eliminating the need for operators to manually arrange slides in increasing order. This substitution maintains traceability through automated verification while significantly reducing operational complexity and the need for operator care and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of slide positioning and code reading. The reading means automatically detect and verify identification codes during insertion, and the system itself ensures proper sequencing without requiring external manual intervention. This self-service capability maintains reliability for traceability while reducing operational complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If slides are placed side by side in compartments, then space is utilized efficiently, but identification codes become concealed making reading difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the reading means in a spatial arrangement that allows code reading without requiring slides to be separated or lifted. By utilizing a different spatial dimension (positioning readers above or at an angle to the slide surface), the system can read codes even when slides are placed side by side in compact compartments, thus maintaining space utilization while solving the visibility problem.
4Reliability
If separate operations are used for positioning and reading, then each function can be optimized, but the overall process efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function and reading function into a single integrated operation performed during slide insertion. Rather than using separate optimized operations, the system combines both functions concurrently, achieving high process efficiency while maintaining reliability through coordinated design of the insertion and reading mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The reading operation continues concurrently with the positioning operation during slide insertion. Instead of completing positioning first and then reading, the system performs both actions continuously and simultaneously, eliminating idle time and improving overall process efficiency while maintaining the reliability of both functions.
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
Facilitates rapid and accurate loading of slides with simultaneous code reading, enhancing efficiency and reducing manual handling errors.
Implementation Method 1
said index comprises an actuator of solenoid or magnetic type
Implementation Method 2
to release it, in coordination with said reading means and linear feed means of said tray, into one of said compartments making use of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a loading machine for slides, provided with biological samples and with an electronically readable identification code, inside a tray divided, by means of separation structures, into multiple compartments, each compartment being adapted to contain one of the slides in an orderly manner. The loading machine includes: a supporting frame structure for resting on a work surface; a linear feeder of the tray with respect to the frame structure; an inserter of the slides into the tray in an orderly and sequential manner; a reader of the identification code provided on each of the slides; and a control unit. The inserter of the slides into the tray includes a unit to temporarily retain each slide and to release it, in coordination with the reader and linear feeder of the tray, into one of the compartments making use of gravity.