Top-View Sample Color Inspection Past Barcode Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory automation systems face difficulties in accurately determining the quality of biological samples due to obstructed views caused by barcode labels, which can affect the accuracy of analytical results.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a data processing system that captures and processes a color image of the biological sample from a top view perspective, determining sample quality by comparing the sample color with reference colors, and optionally using machine learning to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barcode labels are adhered to the container for identification and handling, then the container can be properly identified and tracked, but the view of the biological sample is obstructed, affecting the accuracy of sample quality determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from side-view imaging to top-view imaging of the container. By positioning the camera above the container and capturing an image from the top, the barcode label on the side of the container no longer obstructs the view of the biological sample. This dimensional change in imaging perspective resolves the contradiction between having barcode labels for identification and maintaining clear visibility of the sample for quality assessment.
2Measurement precision
If automated visual inspection is performed from the side view to determine sample quality, then the method can be implemented with existing equipment, but the barcode label obstructs the view and reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a top-view imaging approach, positioning the camera above the container to capture the biological sample from above. This simple geometric change in imaging perspective provides a clear view of the sample without requiring complex image processing algorithms or additional hardware components, thus maintaining low device complexity while significantly improving measurement precision.
3Reliability
If the container is capped to protect the biological sample, then the sample is protected from contamination, but the view of the sample is completely blocked, preventing quality determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the quality inspection action before the container is capped. By capturing an image of the biological sample from the top view while the container is still uncapped, the system determines sample quality integrity before closure. This preliminary action allows the container to be capped subsequently without compromising the ability to assess sample quality, thus resolving the contradiction between sample protection and detectability.
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
Enables accurate determination of sample quality by overcoming view obstructions from barcode labels, ensuring reliable analytical results.
Implementation Method 1
a camera apparatus (14), configured to obtain a color image (9) showing at least part of a surface (6) of the biological sample (2) from a top view perspective on the container (1)
Implementation Method 2
determining, by a data processing apparatus (11), at least one sample color of the biological sample (2) based on the color image (9)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method (100) for determining a sample quality of a biological sample (2) inside an uncapped container (1), the method (100) comprising: - determining, by a data processing system (11), at least one sample color of the biological sample (2) based on a color image (9) showing at least part of a surface (6) of the biological sample (2) from a top view perspective on the container (1); and - determining, by the data processing system (11), the sample quality of the biological sample (2) based on a comparison of the determined at least one sample color with at least one reference color.