Shifted Test Tube Rack Layout for In-Array Barcode Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reading barcodes on test tubes require complex and time-consuming processes, consuming lab space and posing hazards due to the need for robotic manipulation and large footprints, with existing systems being error-prone and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A shift and scan test tube rack apparatus with linearly translating barcode devices and controllers that allow for increased readable density without expanding the instrument's footprint, using an array of racks with line of sight windows for barcode reading, reducing the need for robotic manipulation and space consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test tubes are moved outside the array for barcode reading, then barcode reading can be performed, but lab space is consumed and hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent rack positioned between the test tube array and the barcode reader serves as an intermediary medium. The rack holds test tubes in a shifted position that allows the barcode reader to read barcodes through the rack structure, eliminating the need to move test tubes outside the array while maintaining reading capability and removing hazards to personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system that physically moves test tubes outside the array is replaced with an optical system that reads barcodes through the transparent rack. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical manipulation and removes the hazard of moving test tubes through personnel areas
2Measurement precision
If test tubes are moved outside the array for barcode reading, then barcode reading can be performed, but the process becomes time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent rack is pre-positioned in the optimal location between the test tube array and barcode reader. Test tubes are shifted into the rack in advance, allowing the barcode reader to immediately read barcodes without time-consuming movement operations, thus eliminating delays while maintaining reading capability
3Measurement precision
If complex lifter mechanisms are used to read barcodes, then barcode reading can be performed, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent rack acts as a simple intermediary structure that requires no motors or complex mechanisms. It provides a fixed positioning platform that allows the barcode reader to read through the rack, replacing complex lifter mechanisms with a simple transparent holder that maintains reading capability while dramatically reducing device complexity
4Measurement precision
If test tubes are moved outside the array for barcode reading, then barcode reading can be performed, but the instrument footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solution moves the barcode reading process from a horizontal dimension (moving test tubes outside the array) to a vertical/optical dimension (reading through the transparent rack). This dimensional change allows reading to occur within the existing instrument footprint by utilizing the transparent rack as an optical medium rather than requiring additional horizontal space
5Measurement precision
If robotic manipulation of single tubes is used for barcode reading, then barcode reading can be performed, but the process becomes very time consuming and requires complex apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manipulating single test tubes individually through complex robotic systems, the solution segments the test tube array into groups that can be shifted together into the transparent rack. This segmentation approach maintains reading capability while dramatically reducing time consumption by processing multiple tubes simultaneously rather than one at a time
Data Source
AI summary
A shift and scan test tube rack apparatus and method comprised of an array of initially aligned racks each comprised of a row of spaced apart receptacles each having a receptacle window through which a barcode on a received barcode labeled test tube is viewable and each rack further comprised of a plurality of line of sight windows each interposed between two adjacent spaced apart receptacles, and a shifting device for individually shifting any one of the racks in the array of initially aligned racks to a shifted position that allows a plurality of the receptacle windows in the shifted rack to be viewed through the plurality of line of sight windows in the remaining aligned racks for reading barcodes on barcode labeled test tubes received in the shifted rack.