Solid-Liquid Boundary Detection via Surface Illumination Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting the boundary between solid and liquid in a container, such as those used in metabolome analysis, often result in inaccurate positioning due to variations in light hit angles for photoelectric sensors and potential errors with ultrasonic sensors, leading to incorrect suction of solids.
Innovation Solution
A solid-liquid boundary detection device employing surface illumination, an imaging unit, and a boundary detection processor to capture and accurately detect the boundary between the solid and liquid, along with a pedestal and movement mechanism for precise positioning and a holding mechanism to ensure clear imaging, and a liquid removal mechanism guided by needle detection processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a photoelectric sensor is used to detect the boundary between solid and liquid, then the boundary can be detected by detecting color change, but the detection sensitivity varies depending on light hit angle causing position errors
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a photoelectric sensor to detect boundary position directly, the invention inverts the approach by using an imaging unit to capture the entire container and detect boundaries through image processing. This eliminates the sensitivity issues of photoelectric sensors to light angles while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the photoelectric sensor-based optical detection system with an imaging-based detection system. By using an imaging unit to capture images and process them to detect boundaries, the system achieves more reliable and consistent detection without being affected by light hit angle variations.
2Measurement precision
If an ultrasonic sensor is used to detect the boundary, then distance to solid can be detected, but errors occur in detection results causing solids to be erroneously sucked
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the ultrasonic sensor-based detection system with an imaging-based system. By using visual imaging and image processing to detect the boundary between solid and liquid, the system achieves more accurate and reliable detection, eliminating the errors that cause solids to be erroneously sucked.
3Productivity
If the needle is positioned close to the boundary for liquid removal, then nearly all liquid can be removed, but there is a risk of contacting and sucking the solid
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a detection unit to continuously monitor the boundary position between solid and liquid, providing real-time feedback to the needle positioning system. This feedback mechanism allows the needle to be positioned as close to the boundary as possible for efficient liquid removal while automatically adjusting to avoid contacting the solid, thus eliminating the risk of solid contamination.
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
This configuration allows for accurate detection and removal of the liquid by ensuring consistent illumination and precise positioning, reducing errors in boundary detection and enabling nearly complete liquid removal without contacting the solid.
Implementation Method 1
a surface illumination 21 that illuminates the container (14) from outside
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-liquid boundary detection device 20 is a device for detecting a boundary 141 between a solid and a liquid in a test tube 14, and includes a surface illumination 21, an imaging unit 22, and a boundary detection processor 31. The surface illumination 21 illuminates the test tube 14 from outside. The imaging unit 22 is arranged on an opposite side of the test tube 14 from the surface illumination 21, and captures an image including the boundary 141. The boundary detection processor 31 detects the boundary 141 from the image captured by the imaging unit 22.