Tray Dispensation Detection Using Optical Color Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological sample analysis instruments face issues with inaccurate dispensation of reagents onto reaction wells, leading to false positive or negative results due to improper alignment and dispensing errors, which current detection methods fail to adequately distinguish.
Innovation Solution
A system employing photometric analysis of a tray using an image capturing device to evaluate dispensation by identifying color components of the tray's surrounding portions, determining if the fluidic substance is present on the wrong areas based on color thresholds, and flagging inappropriate dispensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are used to detect positions of dispensing probes or monitor inner pressure of probe tubing, then dispensation can be monitored, but true negative patterns cannot be completely separated from false negative patterns and true positive patterns from false positive patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses color changes in the fluidic substance as a detection mechanism. By capturing images and analyzing color components (red, green, blue channel values) of the tray surface, the system can distinguish between proper and improper dispensation based on color threshold comparisons. This allows differentiation between true positive/negative patterns and false patterns through objective color-based criteria.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sensing methods (pressure sensors, position sensors) with optical imaging and color analysis. Instead of monitoring physical parameters like pressure or position, the system uses image capturing devices to detect color changes on the tray surface, providing a non-contact measurement approach that eliminates the limitations of traditional mechanical sensors in distinguishing pattern types.
2Productivity
If reagents are dispensed on reaction wells for analysis, then biological sample analysis can be performed, but improper alignment causes reagents to be dispensed onto the tray surface instead of into reaction wells
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of the tray after dispensation by capturing images and analyzing color components. This preliminary check identifies improper dispensation before analysis begins, allowing for correction or rejection of improperly dispensed trays and preventing false results from compromising analysis productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by comparing color component values against predetermined thresholds. When the color analysis indicates improper dispensation (e.g., reagent present on tray surface rather than in reaction wells), the system generates feedback signals to alert operators or automatically reject the tray, ensuring only properly dispensed samples proceed to analysis.
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
Effectively distinguishes between proper and improper dispensation, preventing false results by accurately identifying and correcting misaligned or misplaced fluidic substances on the tray.
Implementation Method 1
the system employs photometric analysis of a tray on which a fluidic substance is dispensed
Data Source
AI summary
An automated analysis instrument operates to detect inadequate dispensation of a fluidic substance on a tray. The instrument includes an image capturing device to capture an image of at least a portion of the tray including a receptacle portion and a surrounding portion around the receptacle portion. The instrument then identifies the surrounding portion of the at least the portion of the tray in the image, evaluates color components of the image corresponding to the surrounding portion of the at least the portion of the tray, and determines whether the fluidic substance is present on the surrounding portion of the at least the portion of the tray based on at least one of the color components.