Biological Specimen Cassette Storage with Automated Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for storing and managing paraffin blocks of biological samples are inefficient, leading to errors, waste of time, and loss of samples due to manual handling and lack of appropriate storage solutions, especially with the increasing quantity of blocks from 200 million in the 1990s to 750 million by 2030, which exceeds the capacity of existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A computerized and automated storage system for paraffin blocks, featuring horizontal storage compartments with interlocking projections and recesses for vertical positioning, and automated reading and recording of identification information for precise location tracking, allowing for arbitrary placement and reducing the need for operator training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and storage methods are used for paraffin blocks, then storage simplicity is maintained, but errors, time waste, and sample loss increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system enables self-service through automated identification reading and location tracking. When blocks are placed in compartments, the system automatically reads their identification information and records their positions without requiring manual data entry or operator intervention, thereby improving reliability while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with automated electronic identification and computerized tracking systems. Optical or RFID readers automatically detect block identifiers, and software systems track locations, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with automated electronic systems that eliminate errors and sample loss
2Quantity of substance
If existing storage systems are used, then current storage capacity is sufficient, but they cannot support the growing quantity of blocks projected to reach 750 million by 2030
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent compartments arranged in an organized grid pattern, allowing the system to be scaled by adding more compartments or modules. This segmentation enables the system to adapt to growing storage needs from current capacity up to 750 million blocks by 2030 without requiring a complete system replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The storage compartments are designed with universal characteristics that can accommodate different types of paraffin blocks and identification systems. The standardized compartment design and flexible identification reading capabilities allow the same system to handle varying quantities and types of samples, providing adaptability as storage requirements evolve
3Measurement precision
If automated reading and recording systems are implemented, then precise location tracking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated reading and recording functions are extracted as separate, modular components from the basic storage structure. Identification readers and computerized tracking systems are implemented as add-on modules that can be integrated without fundamentally redesigning the entire storage system, thereby achieving precise location tracking while limiting the increase in overall system complexity
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (5) for storing and ordering biological sampling blocks (1), said blocks (1) taking form of a housing (2) provided with identification information on one surface (3) thereof. The device (5) is characterized in that it includes: means (6) for storing at least one element (7) in the form of a horizontally-extending drawer for positioning the blocks (1) vertically in columns and rows with the above-mentioned surface (3) facing upward, using nesting means provided in the form of regularly spaced projections or recesses (15), forming male and female parts on the base, in which the blocks (1) can be inserted; and means (10) for referencing the position of each block (1) within the storing means (6), said referencing means (10) including means (11) for reading the identification information of each block (1) and for the computerized recording of said position. The invention further relates to the method for storing and ordering biological sampling blocks (1) using such a device.