3D Time-of-Flight Tube Detection in Modular Lab Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical laboratory systems face inefficiencies due to the need for manual operation, varying sample tube types, and compatibility issues with different analyzers, particularly in identifying and processing samples across standalone and connected units.
Innovation Solution
A modular laboratory system with a central controller and robotic gripper units that utilize image analysis and automated identification of sample tubes, capable of accommodating various tube sizes and manufacturers, and integrating urgent and centrifugation indicators for efficient sample processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tube-in-rack detection utilizes image analysis tools on 2-dimensional images from one or more cameras, then the system can identify objects in the field of view, but the system lacks the capability to accurately determine the presence or absence of sample tubes and their characteristics (e.g., cap presence, tube type) in three-dimensional space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional 2-D image analysis with a laser-based time-of-flight (ToF) depth imaging system. The ToF camera captures 3-D depth information by measuring the time for laser light to travel to and from the target, enabling accurate detection of tube presence, cap status, and rack configuration without complex mechanical inspection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The ToF depth imaging system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it detects the presence or absence of sample tubes, identifies cap presence, determines tube characteristics, and maps rack configurations. This single system performs what would traditionally require multiple specialized detection devices.
2Reliability
If a laboratory system uses standalone units throughout the lab, then each unit can be optimized for specific functions, but the system requires more space and manual operation to move samples between units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple previously standalone laboratory functions into a single automated system. The ToF-based detection system is combined with automated sample handling and processing capabilities, allowing multiple operations to occur within one unified platform rather than requiring separate standalone units.
Solution Approach 2:
The ToF depth imaging system acts as an intermediary that enables automated coordination between different laboratory functions. By providing accurate 3-D spatial information about sample tubes and racks, it facilitates automated decision-making and sample routing without requiring manual intervention to transfer samples between units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system accommodates a wide range of tube types from different manufacturers, then the system becomes more versatile, but the detection and identification process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The ToF depth imaging system detects tube characteristics by measuring depth parameters and spatial configurations rather than relying on visual appearance. By capturing 3-D depth maps, the system can distinguish between different tube types, cap configurations, and rack positions based on their geometric parameters, accommodating diverse tube formats without requiring complex visual recognition algorithms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system is disclosed. The system includes at least one image acquisition device configured to obtain one or more images of sample containers in a sample container holder. It also includes an image analysis device coupled to the at least one image acquisition device. The image analysis device is configured to analyze, by a processor, the one or more images of the sample containers in the sample container holder, to determine (a) a presence or absence of sample containers at sample container holder locations in the sample container holder, and (b) sample container characteristics of the sample containers in the sample container holder, wherein the sample container characteristics include one or more of cap color, cap shape, labels and markers associated with the sample containers, or one or more sample container holder characteristics.