Biological Sample Tube Labeling With Synchronized Rotation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling machines for biological product containers require a specific application installed on each operator's PC, leading to compatibility issues and inaccurate label application, with potential for human error and lack of operation tracking.
Innovation Solution
A labeling machine with a processing and control board integrated within the machine, capable of querying a LIS database and ensuring accurate label application, independent of the operator's PC system, and equipped with sensors and motors for precise label placement and tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a specific application is installed on each operator's PC to manage the labeling machine, then the labeling machine can be controlled and operated, but compatibility issues arise with different operating systems and the system becomes complex to deploy
Solution Approach 1:
The control application is extracted from the operator's PC and embedded directly into the labeling machine as a processing and control board. This eliminates the need for separate software installations on multiple PCs and resolves operating system compatibility issues, while maintaining full control capabilities over the labeling machine.
Solution Approach 2:
A web server interface is introduced as an intermediary between the operator's PC and the labeling machine. The processing and control board includes a web server that allows communication through a web browser, eliminating the need for dedicated applications and simplifying system deployment across different operating systems.
2Productivity
If the managing application is located on the operator's PC rather than integrated in the labeling machine, then the PC can control the labeling machine, but the labeling machine becomes a passive executor and the system lacks centralized control
Solution Approach 1:
The processing and control functions are merged directly into the labeling machine by integrating a processing and control board within the machine itself. This eliminates the passive executor role and enables the labeling machine to actively query the LIS database, perform autonomous control operations, and maintain centralized management of the labeling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The labeling machine is equipped with self-service capabilities through the integrated processing and control board, which can autonomously query the LIS database for patient information and test tube data, and execute labeling operations without requiring continuous external control from the operator's PC, thereby improving both productivity and reliability.
3Productivity
If the label application process is performed without precise coordination between label detachment and tube positioning, then the labeling process is simple and fast, but the label application becomes inaccurate with twists and folds
Solution Approach 1:
Position sensors are integrated into the labeling machine to detect the precise position of the test tube and provide feedback to the control board. The control board uses this feedback to coordinate the label detachment timing and roller activation, ensuring accurate label application without twists or folds while maintaining high labeling speed through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual coordination of label application is replaced with an automated mechanical system involving synchronized rollers and timed detachment mechanisms controlled by the processing and control board. This mechanical substitution ensures precise coordination between label detachment and tube positioning, eliminating application errors while maintaining productivity.
4Ease of operation
If operation tracking and time recording are not implemented in the labeling system, then the system is simpler and faster to operate, but there is no ability to track specific operation times for historical analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The processing and control board automatically performs operation tracking and time recording without requiring additional manual input or complex external systems. The board records timestamps for each labeling operation and stores this data locally, enabling historical analysis and audit trails while maintaining operational simplicity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing and control board acts as an intermediary that automatically captures and stores operation time data between the labeling actions and the LIS database. This intermediary function records operation timestamps and transmits them to the LIS, preserving information without adding complexity to the user interface or operation flow.
Data Source
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AI summary
A labeling machine (5) suitable for marking containers of biological products or test tubes (13), comprising a barcode printer (11) on labels (10) adapted to receive printing commands after comparing expected and detected test tubes (13) accommodated in a positioning and recognition device (12) supported by said labeling machine (5) and to apply said labels (10) onto said test tubes (13). Said labeling machine comprises synchronization means between the printing operation of said label (10) and the operation of rotation of said test tube (13) for applying said label (10).