U.S. patent application number 11/508707 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for sample identification utilizing rfid tags.
This patent application is currently assigned to Varian, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jean-Louis Excoffier, Marvin H. Smith.
Application Number | 20060283945 11/508707 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36337645 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060283945 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Excoffier; Jean-Louis ; et
al. |
December 21, 2006 |
Sample identification utilizing RFID tags
Abstract
A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader may include a
body including a proximal end region, an RF transceiver antenna
mounted to the body at the proximal end region, and an RF shield
mounted to the body and extending beyond the proximal end region.
The RF shield defines an interior space between the body and an
open end of the RF shield, and surrounds the antenna.
Alternatively, or additionally, a holder of sample containers may
provide an RF shield. The reader may be moved into position over a
sample container to enable communication between the antenna and an
RFID tag associated with the sample container. The RF shield
provides isolation from neighboring sample containers.
Inventors: |
Excoffier; Jean-Louis;
(Richmond, CA) ; Smith; Marvin H.; (Orem,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Varian Inc.;Legal Department
3120 Hansen Way D-102
Palo Alto
CA
94304
US
|
Assignee: |
Varian, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
36337645 |
Appl. No.: |
11/508707 |
Filed: |
August 23, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11088539 |
Mar 24, 2005 |
|
|
|
11508707 |
Aug 23, 2006 |
|
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/439 ;
235/451; 235/487 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01L 3/5457 20130101;
B01L 2300/024 20130101; G01N 35/1079 20130101; G01N 35/00732
20130101; B01L 2300/022 20130101; G01N 2035/00782 20130101; B01L
2300/042 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/439 ;
235/451; 235/487 |
International
Class: |
G06K 7/00 20060101
G06K007/00; G06K 7/08 20060101 G06K007/08; G06K 19/00 20060101
G06K019/00 |
Claims
1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, comprising: a
body including a proximal end region; an RF transceiver antenna
mounted to the body at the proximal end region; and an RF shield
mounted to the body and extending out from the body beyond the
proximal end region to an open end of the RF shield, the RF shield
defining an interior space between the body and the open end,
wherein the antenna is surrounded by the RF shield.
2. The reader of claim 1, comprising a sample probe device, the
sample probe device including the body and a sample probe.
3. The reader of claim 1, further comprising a robotic device
communicating with the body for moving the body.
4. The reader of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the RF
shield is movable relative to the body.
5. A sample holder, comprising: an RF shield including a plurality
of walls defining a plurality of interior spaces; and a sample
container positioned in at least one of the interior spaces, the
sample container including a radio frequency identification (RFID)
tag surrounded by one or more of the walls.
6. The sample holder of claim 5, wherein the sample container
includes a first structure including an open end enclosing a
container interior, and a second structure mounted to the first
structure at the open end, and the RFID tag is positioned near the
open end.
7. The sample holder of claim 6, wherein the RFID tag is attached
to the first structure.
8. The sample holder of claim 6, wherein the RFID tag is attached
to the second structure.
9. The sample holder of claim 6, wherein the RFID tag is positioned
in off-center relation to a central axis passing through the open
end.
10. The sample holder of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the
RFID tag is positioned coaxially about a central axis passing
through the open end.
11. A radio frequency identification (RFID) apparatus, comprising:
an RFID reader including an RF transceiver antenna; a sample
container including an RFID tag; and an RF shield defining an
interior space between the reader and the container, wherein the
antenna and the RFID tag are surrounded by the RF shield.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the RF shield is mounted to
the reader.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the sample container is
positioned in the interior space.
14. A method for identifying an object, comprising: moving a
reader, including a radio frequency (RF) transceiver antenna, into
proximity with a sample container whereby the antenna can
communicate with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag of the
sample container; and surrounding the antenna and the RFID tag with
an RF shield such that the antenna and RFID tag are isolated from
an environment external to the RF shield.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the RF shield is attached to
the reader and defines an interior space in which the antenna is
located, and surrounding includes moving the reader toward the
sample container such that the RFID tag becomes located within the
interior space.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the RFID tag is located in an
interior space defined by the RF shield, and surrounding includes
moving the reader toward the sample container such that the antenna
becomes located within the interior space.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising using the antenna to
read a code stored by the RFID tag whereby the sample container or
a sample contained in the sample container can be identified
18. The method of claim 17 further comprising, after reading the
code, associating the code with information relating to the
identified sample container or sample.
19. The method of claim 14, further comprising using the antenna to
determine whether the sample container is present at a selected
location.
20. The method of claim 14, wherein the sample container is a
target sample container positioned proximate to one or more
neighboring sample containers including respective RFID tags, and
the method further comprises establishing communication between the
antenna and the RFID tag of the target sample container without
interference from RFID tags of the one or more neighboring sample
containers.
21. A sample container, comprising: a container structure extending
along a central axis, the container structure enclosing an interior
and including an open end; a first cap mounted to the container
structure at the open end and having a first aperture located at
the central axis; a second cap mounted to the first cap and having
a second aperture aligned with the first aperture along the central
axis; and an RFID tag mounted at the second cap in off-center
relation to the central axis.
22. The container of claim 21, further including a closure member
mounted at the open end, whereby the interior is isolated from an
environment external to the container structure and the first and
second apertures provide access to the closure member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of Application Ser. No.
11/088,539, filed Mar. 24, 2005.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to sample
identification techniques, such as may be desired in conjunction
with the handling of one or more individual samples as part of
analytical processes. More particularly, the present invention
relates to the use of radio-frequency (RF) energy to uniquely
identify individual samples and/or containers in which the samples
reside.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In many processes for analyzing samples, particularly in
batch and serial processes where several samples are involved, it
is desirable to improve throughput by providing a greater degree of
automated control over various stages of the sample handling,
preparation, and analysis processes and by providing better
management of sample-related data. In one aspect, instrumentation
for the handling, preparation and analysis of samples has become
more automated. For instance, automated sample handling systems
have been developed that include one or more trays holding arrays
of vials, test tubes, or multi-well plates containing small
quantities of liquid samples. These systems typically include a
sampling needle that can be programmed to move to each vial in
order to dispense samples into the vials or aspirate samples from
the vials. Alternatively, the vials or trays holding the vials may
be moved to a sampling needle or other component of the sample
handling system. In another aspect, steps have been taken to
improve the identification of individual samples. Improvements in
sample identification have primarily been made through the
utilization of barcode scanning systems. Barcode scanning systems
employ an optical barcode scanner that reads a barcode printed on a
label. The barcode consists of a combination of dark parallel bars
and light spaces between the bars. The barcode scanner reads the
barcode by directing a beam of light at the barcode. Because the
dark bars of the barcode absorb light and the light spaces reflect
light, a detector in the barcode scanner can receive the reflected
light signals and convert them into electrical signals, which
thereafter can be recognized by electronic means as characters.
Barcode labels have been applied to vials and, in the case of
multi-well plates, a single barcode label has been applied to a
plate.
[0004] While barcode systems and other optical techniques may be
useful in such applications as the tracking of consumer goods,
these types of systems present problems when applied to procedures
for handling small liquid-phase samples in conjunction with
analytical techniques. The information represented by a barcode is
quite limited and fixed. The barcode typically constitutes a short
series of characters such as those corresponding to the well-known
Uniform Product Code (UPC). Due to the brevity of these character
sets, the barcode is capable of identifying only the type of sample
or the tray or group of samples of which the sample is a part. When
a large number of individual samples are to be handled and
analyzed, each of which may be different from the others in terms
of composition or other parameters, there are not enough characters
in a barcode to adequately distinguish one given sample as being
unique from another sample. Even if a barcode were to be employed
to uniquely identify a sample as being, for example, Sample #1,
that same barcode cannot be used to provide any additional
information about that particular sample.
[0005] Moreover, because a barcode system depends on optics, it is
orientation-sensitive; that is, there is only a finite range of
angles between a barcode and a barcode scanner over which optical
communication will be successful. When applied to sample handling
and analysis systems, the barcode system often requires that
several barcode scanners be located at various points along the
system in order to adequately track the sample, or that a given
barcode-containing vial be transported to a single barcode scanner.
Additionally, again due to the use of optics, a barcode-containing
vial must be precisely positioned in relation to a barcode scanner
to ensure that no other object will interfere with the light path,
including neighboring vials. Another related problem stems from the
fact that an optical path is easily modified by the presence of
substances commonly encountered in sample handling. The smearing of
the printed barcode through contact with a researcher or an object,
the marring or degradation of the barcode by solvents or other
substances, or simply the obstructive presence of fluids or
particles on the barcode, all may destroy the ability of the
barcode to be accurately read by a barcode scanner.
[0006] In view of the foregoing, it would be advantageous to
provide a means for uniquely identifying vials and other types of
sample containers without the problems attending barcode technology
and other known techniques employed in conjunction with sample
preparation, handling, and/or analysis. The ability to read an
identification code as the vial is accessed for sampling or mixing
operations, without moving the vial to another position, would also
present significant advantages, in terms of time and chain of
custody-type concerns.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] To address the foregoing problems, in whole or in part,
and/or other problems that may have been observed by persons
skilled in the art, the present disclosure provides apparatus,
devices, and methods for uniquely identifying individual analytical
samples, as described by way of example in implementations set
forth below.
[0008] According to one implementation, a radio frequency
identification (RFID) reader is provided. The reader comprises a
body including a proximal end region, an RF transceiver antenna
mounted to the body at the proximal end region, and an RF shield
mounted to the body and extending out from the body beyond the
proximal end region to an open end of the RF shield. The RF shield
defines an interior space between the body and the open end,
wherein the antenna is surrounded by the RF shield.
[0009] According to another implementation, at least a portion of
the RF shield is movable relative to the body.
[0010] According to another implementation, a sample holder is
provided. The sample holder comprises an RF shield. The RF shield
includes a plurality of walls defining a plurality of interior
spaces. A sample container is positioned in at least one of the
interior spaces. The sample container includes an RFID tag
surrounded by one or more of the walls.
[0011] According to another implementation, an RFID apparatus is
provided. The apparatus includes an RFID reader including an RF
transceiver antenna, a sample container including an RFID tag, and
an RF shield defining an interior space between the reader and the
container. The antenna and the RFID tag are surrounded by the RF
shield. In one example of an embodiment of the RFID apparatus, the
RF shield is mounted to the reader. In another example, the sample
container is positioned in the interior space.
[0012] According to another implementation, a method for
identifying an object is provided. According to the method, a
reader that includes a radio frequency (RF) transceiver antenna is
moved into proximity with a sample container whereby the antenna
can communicate with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag of
the sample container. The antenna and the RFID tag are surrounded
with an RF shield such that the antenna and RFID tag are isolated
from an environment external to the RF shield.
[0013] According to another implementation of the method, the
antenna is employed to read a code stored by the RFID tag whereby
the sample container or a sample contained in the sample container
can be identified.
[0014] According to another implementation, the method further
comprises, after reading the code, associating the code with
information relating to the identified sample.
[0015] According to another implementation of the method, the RF
shield is attached to the reader and defines an interior space in
which the antenna is located. The reader is moved toward the sample
container such that the RFID tag becomes located within the
interior space.
[0016] According to another implementation of the method, the RFID
tag is located in an interior space defined by the RF shield. The
reader is moved toward the sample container such that the antenna
becomes located within the interior space.
[0017] According to another implementation, a sample container
includes a container structure extending along a central axis. The
container structure encloses an interior and includes an open end.
A first cap is mounted to the container structure at the open end
and has a first aperture located at the central axis. A second cap
is mounted to the first cap and has a second aperture aligned with
the first aperture along the central axis. An RFID tag is mounted
at the second cap in off-center relation to the central axis. In
some implementations, the sample container may further include a
closure member mounted at the open end, whereby the interior is
isolated from an environment external to the container structure
and the first and second apertures provide access to the closure
member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a cross-section of a
sample container and sample probe device provided in accordance
with an example of one implementation.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an RFID tag provided according
to an example of one implementation.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an RFID tag provided according
to an example of another implementation.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a sample handling apparatus or
system and related components according to an example of one
implementation.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for uniquely
identifying an analytical sample according to an example of one
implementation.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an example of a sample
identifying apparatus or system according to another
implementation.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an example of a sample
identifying apparatus or system according to another
implementation.
[0025] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sample
identifying apparatus or system in which differently shaped sample
containers are illustrated.
[0026] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an RFID tag provided according
to an example of another implementation.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of the RFID tag illustrated
in FIG. 9.
[0028] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of an arrangement of sample
containers including RFID tags.
[0029] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of another arrangement of sample
containers including RFID tags.
[0030] FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of a cross-section of a
sample container provided in accordance with an example of another
implementation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] In general, the term "communicate" (for example, a first
component "communicates with" or "is in communication with" a
second component) is used herein to indicate a structural,
functional, mechanical, electrical, optical, magnetic, ionic or
fluidic relationship between two or more components or elements. As
such, the fact that one component is said to communicate with a
second component is not intended to exclude the possibility that
additional components may be present between, and/or operatively
associated or engaged with, the first and second components.
[0032] The subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to the
handling of one or more individual samples as, for instance, may be
performed as part of or in preparation for a sample analysis
process. The subject matter provides for the unique identification
of individual samples so that one sample may be readily
distinguished from another sample and that once identified, the
identity of the sample may be correlated with additional
information uniquely pertaining to that sample. Accordingly,
systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein may be
particularly beneficial in applications entailing the analysis of
several individual samples simultaneously or serially in a given
test run, where one or more samples may be different from other
samples, and where one or more components of the system or
apparatus may be partially or fully automated. The approach toward
identification of samples disclosed herein makes use of RF energy
and therefore does not rely on optical energy and is not limited by
optics-related problems. Examples of implementations of apparatus,
systems, devices, and/or related methods for sample identification
and sample handling are described in more detail below with
reference to FIGS. 1-13.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a cross-section of a
sample handling apparatus or system 100 provided with sample
identification functionality in accordance with an example of one
implementation. Sample handling apparatus 100 operates in
conjunction with a sample container 110. In some implementations,
sample handling apparatus 100 may be considered as comprising
sample container 110. That is, in some implementations, sample
container 110 may be considered as being part of sample handling
apparatus 100.
[0034] Sample container 110 may be any container suitable for
containing an analytical sample, particularly a liquid-phase or
multi-phase sample for which one or more quantitative and/or
qualitative analyses are desired. Examples of sample containers 110
include, but are not limited to, vials, test tubes, cuvettes,
wells, flow-through cells, and the like. In the example illustrated
in FIG. 1, sample container 110 includes a first structure or
container structure 112 that defines the interior of sample
container 110 in which an individual sample may reside. Container
structure 112 may include one or more side walls 114, a closed
bottom end 116, and an open top end 118. Typically, container
structure 112 is generally cylindrical in shape, but in alternative
implementations may have a polygonal profile of any suitable type.
Container structure 112 may be constructed from glass, plastic, or
any other material suitable for containing analytical samples.
Container structure 112 may include an end member or cap 120
mounted to a surface of container structure 112 at its open end
118. Cap 120 may be attached to container structure 112 by
crimping, threading, or any other suitable means. In some
implementations, cap 120 includes an aperture 122 that typically is
centrally located relative to a central, longitudinal axis 123 of
container structure 112.
[0035] Generally, no limitation is placed on the size of container
structure 112 or its capacity for holding a volume of sample
material. In some implementations, container structure 112 may
enclose an interior that has a volume ranging from approximately
0.1 mL to approximately 1000 mL. In other implementations, the
volume may range from approximately 0.1 mL to approximately 100 mL.
In other implementations, the volume may range from approximately 1
mL to approximately 50 mL. In other implementations, the volume may
range from approximately 2 mL to approximately 20 mL.
[0036] Container structure 112 may also include a closure member
124, for example a septum or plug, that is attached or mounted to
container structure 112 so as to close off its open end 118 and
thereby isolate or seal the interior of sample container 110 from
the ambient environment. As appreciated by persons skilled in the
art, closure member 124 may be composed of a resilient or
deformable material that enables closure member 124 to perform its
isolating function, as well as to be pierced by a needle without
impairing its ability to provide isolation. In some
implementations, closure member 124 is secured to container
structure 112 by press-fitting, which may be facilitated by the
installation of cap 120 onto container structure 112. The aperture
122 of cap 120 provides external access to closure member 124 so
that a needle or the like may be inserted through closure member
124 and into container structure 112. In some implementations in
which closure member 124 is not needed, sample container 110 is
employed in an open mode, in which case the aperture 122 of cap 120
provides direct access to the interior of sample container 110.
[0037] In some implementations, container structure 112 may have
open ends at both the top and the bottom, and closure members
and/or caps at both the top and the bottom. Examples of these
container structures include purge and trap vials commercially
available from Varian, Inc., Palo Alto, Calif., and typically are
employed for soil analysis or other types of environmental
analysis. In some implementations, sample container 110 may include
a magnetic stirring or agitating element such as a bar or bead.
[0038] For purposes of the present disclosure, no limitation is
placed on the composition of the sample or its properties (for
example, molecular weight, polarity or non-polarity, ionic,
volatility, temperature, or the like), or on the manner in which
the sample is provided to sample container 110. In a typical
implementation, the sample provided to sample container 110 is
predominantly a liquid but in other implementations may be a
multi-phase mixture. For example, the sample may be a solution,
emulsion, suspension or mixture in which analyte components (for
example, molecules of interest) are initially dissolved in one or
more solvents or carried by other types of components. In some
implementations, particularly those associated with headspace
sampling techniques and which in turn may be associated with gas
chromatography (GC) or solid-phase micro-extraction (SPME), sample
container 110 may contain a vapor above a liquid or solid. In such
techniques, it is the vapor that typically is sampled, and hence
the vapor may be considered to be the sample or part of the sample.
Accordingly, terms such as "sample" or "sample material" as used
herein are not limited by any particular phase, form, or
composition. Generally, however, the sample contains analytes of
the type that are amenable to qualitative and/or quantitative
instrumental techniques of analytical chemistry such as, for
example, the various types of chromatography, dissolution, mass
spectrometry, spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
spectrometry or imaging, calorimetry, and the like. The sample may
be dispensed into sample container 110 or removed from sample
container 110 either manually or by automated means.
[0039] In accordance with implementations described in this
disclosure, sample container 110 includes a second structure that
supports a device for storing information uniquely pertaining to
the sample contained within sample container 110. This device,
which may be referred to as a radio-frequency identification (RFID)
tag 126, transponder, smart label, or smart chip, is described in
more detail below. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, RFID tag
126 is positioned with cap 120 such that cap 120 serves as the
second structure supporting RFID tag 126. In other implementations,
as can be readily appreciated from FIG. 1, RFID tag 126 may
alternatively be positioned with closure member 124 such that
closure member 124 serves as the second structure supporting RFID
tag 126. RFID tag 126 may be positioned with cap 120 or closure
member 124 in any suitable fixed manner. As examples, RFID tag 126
may be attached or mounted to cap 120 or closure member 124 through
the use of an adhesive backing or glue, or may be integrated with
cap 120 or closure member 124 by any suitable fabrication process.
In other implementations, RFID tag 126 may be attached directly to
container structure 112. In other implementations, RFID tag 126 may
be attached directly to container structure 112 at or near the
bottom of container structure 112 instead or at or near open end
118 at the top. For instance, RFID tag 126 may be attached to a
side wall 114 or centered at closed bottom end 116 of container
structure 112. In implementations where a multi-well plate is
provided that contains a plurality of wells corresponding to an
array of container structures 112, a plurality of RFID tags 126 may
be respectively positioned at the centers of corresponding bottom
ends 116. In still other implementations in which container
structure 112 has opposing open ends and closure members and/or
caps at both the top and the bottom, RFID tag 126 may be attached
or mounted to the closure member or the cap that is located at the
bottom of container structure 112, in which case the second
structure would correspond to the closure member or the cap located
at the bottom.
[0040] Sample handling apparatus 100 may be any apparatus that can
function to transfer a sample to and/or from sample container 110,
and/or transfer a probe of any suitable type into and/or out from
sample container 110 such as, for example, a sample-absorbing wick
or fiber, an optical probe, a temperature probe, a stirrer or
agitator, or the like. In the present context, the term "transfer"
is intended to encompass dispensing or loading a sample (or a
portion of a sample) into sample container 110, aspirating or
removing a sample (or a portion of a sample) from sample container
110, or both, or inserting a probe into sample container 110 or
removing a probe from sample container 110. For any of these
purposes, sample handling apparatus 100 includes a sample transfer
or probe device 130 that is movable toward and away from sample
container 110, and hence toward and away from RFID tag 126.
Accordingly, the term "sample probe device" may encompass a sample
transfer device or a probe transfer device. The mobility of sample
probe device 130 may be fully automated or semi-automated.
Moreover, one or more components of sample probe device 130 may be
movable in one, two, or three dimensions. The portion of sample
probe device 130 illustrated in FIG. 1 may represent a movable
member 132, such as a probe head or carriage or a needle-mounting
head, provided with sample handling apparatus 100. As appreciated
by persons skilled in the art, a movable member 132 of this type
may be driven by components provided with sample handling apparatus
100 such as, for example, a robotic assembly or one or more motors,
actuators, linkages, guide means, and the like.
[0041] Sample probe device 130 may also include a sample probe 134
that may be adapted to carry out one or more functions or
operations. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, sample probe
device 130 is adapted for handling liquid samples and thus may be
characterized as a sample transfer device. Accordingly, the sample
probe 134 associated with sample probe device 130 may be provided
in the form of a sample conduit through which a sample may be
transferred to or from sample container 110. Sample probe 134 may
be supported by or attached to movable member 132. Examples of a
sample probe 134 include, but are not limited to, a capillary,
needle, tube, pipe, pipette, cannula, hollow probe, sensing,
detecting or measuring instrument (for example, a dip probe or
camera), stirrer, and the like. In some implementations, sample
probe device 130 is able to insert sample probe 134 into sample
container 110. In implementations where sample container 110
includes closure member 124, sample probe 134 may be structured so
as to be able to pierce through and penetrate closure member 124 to
access the interior of sample container 110. Sample probe 134
extends, or is extendable, out from a lower end region 136 of
sample probe device 130. Sample probe device 130 may include a
sample probe guide 138 positioned at lower end region 136 to
support and/or guide sample probe 134. Sample probe 134 may be
fixed relative to sample probe device 130 or to at least that
portion of sample probe device 130 shown in FIG. 1, in which case
sample probe device 130 may be lowered toward sample container 110
in order to insert sample probe 134 into sample container 110.
Alternatively, sample probe 134 may be movable relative to sample
probe device 130 for extending sample probe 134 into and out from
sample container 110. In either case, sample probe guide 138
maintains sample probe 134 in a proper position or alignment with
respect to lower end region 136.
[0042] In some implementations, sample probe 134 may be a hollow
sheath that contains a sample-absorbing fiber. This fiber may be
extended into a liquid sample contained in sample container 110
(for example, in SPME techniques) or into a vapor contained in
sample container 110 above the liquid or solid (for example, in
headspace SPME techniques). The fiber absorbs compounds of interest
from the liquid or vapor and is then retracted into the sheath. The
sheath is then drawn out from sample container 110. The sheath may
function as a needle so that it is able to pierce a closure member
124 while protecting the fiber. In other implementations, sample
probe 134 may be adapted to perform some type of analysis,
detection, or measurement. Accordingly, sample probe 134 may be,
for example, an optical probe or a temperature-sensing probe.
Alternatively, sample probe 134 may also include the
afore-mentioned sheath that is adapted for piercing a closure
member 124 while protecting this type of probe.
[0043] Sample probe device 130 further includes a radio-frequency
(RF) transceiver antenna 150 for communicating with RFID tag 126 of
sample container 110. In some implementations, RF transceiver
antenna 150 advantageously is positioned at or near a lowermost
part of lower end region 136 of sample probe device 130 for
communicating with RFID tag 126 at close range, and in some
implementations may even contact RFID tag 126 although contact is
not required. This configuration ensures that RF transceiver
antenna 150 will come into close proximity with RFID tag 126 (for
example, a few millimeters) when sample probe device 130 is moved
into position over sample container 110. As appreciated by persons
skilled in the art, the sensitivity of RF transceiver antenna 150
and/or the electronics with which it communicates can be adjusted
for close-range communication with RFID tag 126. In the present
context, this configuration ensures that RF transceiver antenna 150
is able to discriminate the RFID tag 126 of one sample container
110 from the RFID tag 126 of another, nearby sample container 110.
That is, when sample probe device 130 is positioned over sample
container 110, RF transceiver antenna 150 should be able to read
the RFID tag 126 of that particular sample container 110 and not an
RFID tag 126 provided with any other sample container 110.
Moreover, RF transceiver antenna 150 may be utilized to sense
whether a particular sample container 110 is missing from an array
of sample containers or contains no RFID tag 126. For any of these
purposes, as shown in the example illustrated in FIG. 1, RF
transceiver antenna 150 may be mounted to sample probe guide
138.
[0044] In some implementations, also shown in the cross-sectional
view of FIG. 1, RF transceiver antenna 150 and RFID tag 126 may be
substantially centered about sample probe 134 and/or central
longitudinal axis 123 of sample container 110 so as to be generally
aligned with each other. For instance, both RF transceiver antenna
150 and RFID tag 126 may comprise respective annular RF
transmitting components such as conductive loops that are generally
aligned with each other. These loops may be positioned
concentrically relative to sample probe 134 and/or central
longitudinal axis 123 of sample container 110, and lie along planes
parallel to the top of sample container 110. Implementations
utilizing conductive loops may enhance the selectivity with which
RF transceiver antenna 150 is able to read RFID tag 126,
particularly at certain frequencies.
[0045] Generally, RFID tag 126 may be any device capable of storing
data and transmitting the data via an RF carrier signal in response
to a query from a suitable reader, such as an RF-based query
transmitted by an RF transceiver antenna 150. For example, RFID tag
126 may be realized by forming an integrated circuit on a suitable
substrate such as a silicon chip. The chip in turn may be provided
on a flexible substrate such as a label or adhesive sticker. In
some implementations, RFID tag 126 may also include a small,
typically flexible antenna interconnected to the integrated circuit
or chip to enable RFID tag 126 to transmit RF signals to a suitable
reader such as RF transceiver antenna 150. In other
implementations, electrical contacts or interconnects provided with
RFID tag 126 may serve the same purpose as an antenna in which case
a discrete antenna need not be fabricated with RFID tag 126.
[0046] RFID tag 126 may be passive, active, or semi-passive. As can
be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, a passive RFID tag
126 does not require a power source for its operation. A passive
RFID tag 126 can absorb some of the electromagnetic energy from a
signal sent by RF transceiver antenna 150 and reflect the energy as
an RF return signal that carries the coded information stored in
its memory. For example, an RF scan transmitted by RF transceiver
antenna 150 may induce electrical current in the antenna or contact
of RFID tag 126, thereby providing enough power for RFID tag 126 to
respond properly. On the other hand, active RFID tags and
battery-assisted passive RFID tags (or semi-passive RFID tags)
require a battery or other suitable power source. In
battery-assisted passive RFID tags, a battery is employed to
provide power for operation of the chip but not for communicating
with RF transceiver antenna 150. The powered (active and
semi-passive) RFID tags typically have longer operating ranges and
greater capacity for data storage than passive RFID tags, but cost
more and may have much shorter operating lives. The physical
dimensions of a passive or active RFID tag may be in the micron or
millimeter range. Typically, a passive RFID tag will be smaller
than an active RFID tag.
[0047] RFID tag 126 and RF transceiver antenna 150 may operate
within any suitable range of radio frequencies, including
low-frequency or LF (typically considered as including the range of
approximately 125-134 kHz), high-frequency or HF (typically 13.56
MHz or thereabouts), ultra-high frequency or UHF (typically
considered as including the range of approximately 868-956 MHz) and
microwave (for example, 2450 MHz). Each frequency or range of
frequencies may have advantages or disadvantages depending on the
particular implementation, as well as factors such as intended read
range, operating environment, power requirements, costs of
materials and fabrication, geometry, and the like. For purposes of
the implementations disclosed herein, the frequency utilized for
operation is one that is compatible with close-range, error-free
communication, i.e., typically in the range of a few millimeters as
previously noted.
[0048] The chip provided with RFID tag 126 may have read-write or
read-only capability. When equipped with a read-write chip, new
information can be added to RFID tag 126 or written over existing
information. When equipped with a read-only chip, the information
stored by RFID tag 126 cannot be changed unless the chip is
reprogrammed. As appreciated by persons skilled in the art, the
read-only chip of RFID tag 126 may include electrically erasable
programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).
[0049] The data recorded by and stored on RFID tag 126 includes
enough information to uniquely identify the sample residing in
sample container 110 so that sample container 110 and/or its sample
can be discriminated from other sample containers 110 and/or their
respective samples. Generally, the code is long enough to enable
each RFID tag 126 employed in a given system or procedure to have a
unique identity for purposes of tracking through the system,
correlation with other data, and the like. As a few examples, the
size of the code may be 64 bits or 96 bits, although in other
implementations the code may be larger or smaller. In the case
where the code is employed simply as a unique identifier for a
sample contained in a sample container 110, the code may be
associated with an address in a remote memory where more detailed
information regarding the sample has been stored, such as in a
database stored on a computer provided with or communicating with
sample handling system 100. For example, once the code has been
read by RF transceiver antenna 150, the code may then used to
search the database for more detailed information specifically
relating to the individual sample identified by the code. The types
of information with which the code may be associated may depend on
many factors, such as the type of analysis or analyses to be
performed on samples or the types of analytical instrumentation to
be employed. The types of information may include, but are not
limited to, the composition and properties of the sample (to the
extent known), the origin of the sample (for example, a particular
test site, specimen, patient, or the like), the date and time the
sample was taken or prepared, the conditions under which the sample
was prepared, the types of reagents, solvents, additives or
chemical labels combined with the sample, the position (for
example, row/column) of the sample container 110 within an array of
sample containers 110, the identity of the particular group of
sample containers 110 with which the sample container 110 is
arranged (for example, a vial rack or tray, multi-well plate, or
the like), and the like. Depending on the storage capability of
RFID tag 126, one or more of these types of data may be directly
stored in RFID tag 126 along with its identification code.
[0050] FIG. 2 illustrates one example of an RFID tag 200 that may
be utilized in conjunction with implementations described herein.
RFID tag 200 includes a microchip 210 in which data including the
unique identifier code, and alternatively other data as well, may
be recorded and stored. One or more electrically conductive members
212 and 214 may be connected in electrical communication with
microchip 210. In the illustrated example, two conductive members
212 and 214 are utilized and are provided in the form of flat metal
plates. Conductive members 212 and 214 are attached to a substrate
216, which may be non-conductive. Microchip 210 is attached to
conductive members 212 and 214 or directly to substrate 216 between
conductive members 212 and 214. As shown in FIG. 2, conductive
members 212 and 214 may be shaped such that RFID tag 200 may be
characterized as having a bow-tie configuration. One or more
antennas 218 and 220 may be connected to conductive members 218 and
220, respectively. Antennas 218 and 220 may have arcuate shapes
such as substantially semicircular shapes. A thin conductive strip
222 may interconnect the ends of antennas 218 and 220 opposite to
conductive members 212 and 214 to prevent static charge buildup
that might damage microchip 210. Antennas 218 and 220 may be
centered relative to axis 123 (FIG. 1). In alternative
implementations, conductive members 212 and 214 may themselves
serve as the antennas for RFID tag 200, in which case antennas 218
and 220 are not needed. An RFID tag 200 configured as illustrated
in FIG. 2 may be particularly advantageous when operating at
UHF.
[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates another example of an RFID tag 300 that
may be utilized in conjunction with implementations described
herein. RFID tag 300 generally has an annular, ring, or loop
configuration. In some implementations, as shown for example in
FIG. 1, RFID tag 126 may have a loop configuration similar to RFID
tag 300 shown in FIG. 3, and may be utilized in conjunction with an
annular RF receiver antenna 150 (FIG. 1). In these implementations,
RF receiver antenna 150 and RFID tag 126 are concentric with sample
probe 134 and sample container 110, which may increase the
selectivity of the RFID system as previously noted. As shown by
example in FIG. 3, RFID tag 300 may include a coiled antenna 302
attached by any suitable means to a microchip 304. Antenna 302 may
include one or more loops of conductive wire, ribbon or other
suitable material. Antenna 302 may be coated with or enclosed by an
insulating material if appropriate. An RFID tag 300 configured as
illustrated in FIG. 3 may be particularly advantageous when
operating at frequencies lower than UHF such as, for example,
HF.
[0052] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an example of an automated
sample handling apparatus or system 400 that includes the RFID
functionality described above. Sample handling system 400 may
include a sample holding assembly 410 that may in turn include one
or more sample holding modules 412, 414, 416 and 418. While four
sample holding modules 412, 414, 416 and 418 are specifically
illustrated, more or less may be provided. Sample holding modules
412, 414, 416 and 418 may be provided in the form of racks or
plates that include an array of apertures in which sample
containers 110 can be mounted, typically in an upright (vertical)
fashion. Sample containers 110 may be configured in the manner
illustrated in FIG. 1. Alternatively, or additionally, sample
holding assembly 410 may include a tray that supports the bottoms
of sample containers 110 or sample holding modules 412, 414, 416
and 418. As another alternative, sample holding modules 412, 414,
416 and 418 may be provided in the form of multi-well plates, such
as microtitre plates, in which sample containers 110 are formed as
an array of wells or depressions in blocks of suitable material
(for example, plastic or quartz). Still further, while in the
presently described implementation sample holding assembly 410
provides for a generally rectilinear array (for example, rows and
columns) of sample containers 110, it is readily appreciated that
in other implementations sample holding assembly 410 may include a
carousel that provides a rotary arrangement of sample containers
110.
[0053] Sample handling apparatus 400 may additionally include a
mobile sampling assembly such as a robotic assembly 430. Robotic
assembly 430 supports a movable member 132 such as a sample probe
mounting device or carriage device, which may be configured as a
sample probe device 130 and include a sample probe 134 as described
above in conjunction with FIG. 1. As indicated schematically in
FIG. 4 by arbitrarily designated X-, Y- and Z-axes, robotic
assembly 430 is capable of moving sample probe 134 along one, two,
or three dimensions (and typically at least two dimensions) as
needed for positioning sample probe 134 into operational alignment
with each sample container 110 or selected sample containers 110
that have been loaded into sample handling system 400. By this
configuration, sample handling apparatus 400 is able to transfer
selected samples (or portions of samples) to and/or from
corresponding sample containers 110 in the case where sample probe
134 is a sample conduit. In the case where sample probe 134 is a
probe of the analyzing, measuring, sensing, or detecting type,
sample handling apparatus 400 is able to move this type of probe
into and/or out from selected sample containers 110 when needed. In
some implementations, sample handling apparatus 400 may include
both probes of the sample-transferring type and probes of the
analytical function type, and an RF transceiving antenna 150 may be
provided in cooperation with one or both types of probes.
[0054] Sample probe device 130 is movably connected to another
movable member 432 so as to be movable within a guide means such as
a track 434 of movable member 432 along the Z-axis. In alternative
implementations, sample probe 134 may itself be movable relative to
a mounting structure of robotic assembly 430. Movable member 432 in
turn is movably connected to a guide means such as an arm 436 or
similar structure such that movable member 432 is movable along the
X-axis. Arm 436 in turn is movably connected to another guide means
such as an arm 438 such that arm 436 is movable along the Y-axis.
Motors or actuators (not shown) responsible for the movement of
these components in the various directions may be programmed so
that sample probe 134 is positionable over designated sample
containers 110 according to any desired sequence.
[0055] Sample probe 134 may communicate with other fluid circuitry
typically provided with sample handling system 400. In FIG. 4, the
other fluid circuitry is generally represented by block 450 and may
include, for example, valves, tubing, sample loops, pumps, solvent
and reagent reservoirs, rinsing stations, dilution modules, mixing
chambers, waste receptacles, and the like as is readily appreciated
by persons skilled in the art. Fluid communications between fluid
circuitry 450 and sample probe 134, and between fluid circuitry 450
and any analytical instrument or instruments 460 that may be
provided, are schematically depicted by lines 462 and 464,
respectively.
[0056] Sample handling system 400 may further include electronic
circuitry 470 for controlling the various operations of sample
handling system 400. Electronic circuitry 470 may include hardware
control circuitry 472 that is conventionally associated with sample
preparation and liquid handling instrumentation. For example,
hardware control circuitry 472 may control the operations of the
various components of robotic assembly 430 and fluid circuitry 450.
As another example, hardware control circuitry 472 may control the
sequential injections of samples into analytical instrument 460 or
combination of analytical instruments such as, for example, those
associated with chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry,
nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry, calorimetry, and the like.
Accordingly, hardware control circuitry 472 is schematically
illustrated as electrically communicating with robotic assembly
430, fluid circuitry 450, and analytical instrument 460 via lines
474, 476, and 478, respectively. Electronic circuitry 470 may be
programmable for all such purposes, such as through the execution
of software and/or in response to user input via a suitable
peripheral device.
[0057] In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, electronic circuitry
470 is shown to also include an RF signal processing circuit 480
that communicates with RF transceiver antenna 150 to receive
code-bearing signals detected from RFID tags 126 and process the
signals as digital information. Particularly in implementations in
which RFID tags 126 are passive, RF signal processing circuit 480
may function to produce the RF signal that is transmitted by RF
transceiver antenna 150 to activate RFID tags 126 in order to
acquire their respective coded information. RF signal processing
circuit 480 may be interfaced by any suitable means with hardware
control circuitry 472, as well as with any data acquisition
software provided with analytical instrument 460, so that their
respective operations and functions are coordinated as needed.
Electronic circuitry 470 is further shown to include memory 484 for
storing a database containing information associated with the codes
transmitted by RFID tags 126. Memory 484 may be provided in any
suitable format and may be interfaced with removable storage
media.
[0058] It will be understood that hardware control circuitry 472,
RF signal processing circuit 480, and sample information-containing
memory 484 are illustrated in FIG. 4 as being integrated as a
single schematic block (electronic circuitry 470) by way of example
only. The various functions described here may be implemented in
separate modules, including computers, function- or
application-specific electronic processing devices, remote servers,
and the like. As one example, a programming station 490 by which
codes are recorded in RFID tags 126 may also be configured to allow
a user to initially populate the database containing information
associated with each code. In this implementation, the contents of
the database may thereafter be transferred to memory 484 in
electronic circuitry 470 via a suitable communication line 492 or
by removing storage media from programming station 490 and then
loading the media into memory 484. Moreover, communications between
electronic circuitry 470 and robotic assembly 430, fluid circuitry
450, analytical instrument 460, and programming station 490 are
represented by lines 474, 476, 478, and 492, respectively, for the
sake of simplicity. In practice, these lines 474, 476, 478, and 492
may represent one or more signal paths as needed for
communications, and may represent hard wiring and/or airborne,
wireless signals.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 5, and with reference to the various
implementations described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, an
example of a method for uniquely identifying an analytical sample
will now be described. A sample container 110 that includes an RFID
tag 126 (or 200, or 300) is provided. Sample container 110 and its
RFID tag 126 may be configured or designed in accordance with one
or more of the examples of implementations described elsewhere in
this disclosure. RFID tag 126 contains information relating to a
sample contained in sample container 110. As described above, the
sample information may include a code that serves as a unique
identifier for the sample and/or the sample container 110 in which
the sample resides. The sample information may additionally include
other data relating to the sample, such as features, properties,
constituents, origin, conditions under which the sample was
prepared, and the like as described above. In some implementations
of the method, a plurality of sample containers 110 equipped with
RFID tags 126 are provided. The plurality of sample containers 110
may be arranged in an ordered array such the respective positions
of the sample containers 110 can be defined. A sample probe device
130 that includes a sample probe 134 and an RF transceiver antenna
150 is also provided. Sample probe device 130 may be configured or
designed in accordance with one or more of the implementations
described above. The plurality of sample containers 110 may be
positioned with a sample handling apparatus or system 100 or 400
that has one or more automated features or components such as
described above.
[0060] At block 510 in FIG. 5, sample probe device 130 is moved
into proximity with a sample container 110. That is, sample probe
device 130 is moved into a position relative to sample container
110 such that RF transceiver antenna 150 is close enough to RFID
tag 126 of sample container 110 to enable the coupling of RF energy
between RF transceiver antenna 150 and RFID tag 126. In other
words, as a result of movement of sample probe device 130, RFID tag
126 falls within the RF transmission range of sample probe device
130. This range is close enough to ensure that RF transceiver
antenna 150 communicates with the intended sample container 110 and
not with any other neighboring sample container 110, and without
interference with any other neighboring sample container 110. In
particularly desirable implementations, this range is a close
range, for example 0-10 mm. In some implementations such as
described above, the position into which sample probe device 130 is
moved relative to sample container 110 is a position directly above
sample container 110 where RF transceiver antenna 150 is generally
aligned with RFID tag 126. RF transceiver antenna 150 broadcasts an
activation or query signal so as to be able to scan for one or more
sample containers 110. RF transceiver antenna 150 may broadcast its
signal on a continuous basis or at regular intervals.
Alternatively, the broadcasts by RF transceiver antenna 150 may be
coordinated or synchronized with the movement of sample probe
device 130 (and thus RF transceiver antenna 150), such that RF
transceiver antenna 150 transmits its signal only upon reaching its
final position relative to the targeted sample container 110. In
implementations where a plurality of sample containers 110 are
provided, the movement of sample probe device 130 may follow a
predetermined or programmed path from one sample container 110 to
another. For example, sample probe device 130 may be coupled to a
programmable robotic assembly 430 provided with a sample handling
apparatus 400, as described above.
[0061] At block 520 in FIG. 5, RF transceiver antenna 150 reads
sample data stored by the RFID tag 126 of the target sample
container 110. As a result, the sample contained in sample
container 110 is identified and, consequently, may be readily
distinguished from other samples that are the subjects of the
sample handling, preparation and/or analysis processes being
performed. Depending on the amount and types of sample data stored
on a given RFID tag 126 interrogated by RF transceiver antenna 150,
RF transceiver antenna 150 may forward the data acquired to
suitable electronic circuitry such as a microprocessor (operating,
for example, within electronic circuitry 470 shown in FIG. 4). The
electronic circuitry may interface with a database to associate the
sample data acquired by RF transceiver antenna 150 with additional
(and typically more detailed) data pertaining to the sample that
has just been identified. The accessing of a database, look-up
table, or the like is particularly useful in implementations where
the sample data retrieved from an RFID tag 126 is merely a code
that uniquely identifies the sample. In some implementations, once
an RFID tag 126 of a sample container 110 has been read, the sample
may be transferred to one or more analytical instruments 460 for
analysis.
[0062] In some implementations, the method just described and
illustrated in FIG. 5 may constitute a single iteration, and hence
may be repeated for other sample containers 110 that are being
processed.
[0063] In some implementations, RF transceiver antenna 150 may be
utilized to determine whether a particular position within or
relative to a sample handling apparatus or system 100 or 400 is
occupied by a sample container 110, or whether a sample container
110 is missing from that particular position, or whether a sample
container 110 occupying that particular position lacks an RFID tag
126 or has a defective RFID tag 126. The RF-related components as
disclosed herein allow such operations even in the presence of
other RFID-tagged sample containers occupying neighboring positions
in close proximity to the presently targeted position. In still
other implementations, RF transceiver antenna 150 may be utilized
to scan an entire array of sample containers 110 (see, for
instance, sample holding assembly 410 and associated components
illustrated in FIG. 4), not only to acquire sample data but also to
compile a list of sample containers 110 that are present or absent
at the various positions of the array. This scan may or may not
involve momentarily stopping RF transceiver antenna 150 over each
target sample container 110 or sample container site. Again, the
RF-related components as disclosed herein allow such operations to
be carried out accurately at each targeted position without
neighboring sample containers 110 interfering with the
operations.
[0064] In some implementations, sample probe 132 may perform an
analytical function or operation while located at a given sample
container 110, and this function or operation may be executed
before or after RF transceiver antenna 150 reads the data from RFID
tag 126, or while the data is being read. Examples of analytical
functions or operations that may be performed by sample probe 132
may include analytical, detecting, or measuring tasks such as,
optical detection, temperature measurement, or the like.
[0065] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an RFID apparatus or system
600 according to another implementation. The RFID apparatus 600 may
include or be part of a sample handling apparatus such as, for
example, described above and illustrated in FIG. 1 or 4. RFID
apparatus 600 includes an RFID reader device 604. The reader 604
may include or be part of a sample transfer or probe device such
as, for example, described above and illustrated in FIG. 1 or 4.
The reader 604 includes a main body 608 having a proximal end
region 612 and a distal end region 616. An RF transceiver antenna
620 is mounted by any suitable means to the body 608 at the
proximal end region 612. The RF transceiver antenna 620 may be
mounted on any portion of the proximal end region 612, such as on a
side 624 of the body 608 or, as illustrated by example in FIG. 6,
on a lowermost end 628 of the body 608. As described above for
other implementations, the reader 604 may be a mobile device and
the mobility may be manual or automated. For example, the reader
604 may be part of or under the control of a robotic or automated
device. The reader 604 may include RF processing circuitry 630
located within the body 608 in communication with the RF
transceiver antenna 620, in which case the reader 604 may be
considered as an RF transceiver. Alternatively, RF processing
circuitry may be provided remotely from the reader 604 (see, e.g.,
the RF signal processing circuit 480 of FIG. 4) and, for instance,
communicate with the RF transceiver antenna 620 through wiring
routed through the body 608 or by any other suitable electrical
communication means.
[0066] As further illustrated in FIG. 6, RFID apparatus 600
includes an RF shield 632 mounted to the body 608. The RF shield
632 extends from the body 608 for a distance beyond the lowermost
end 628. The RF shield 632 may have any shape suitable for defining
an interior space 636 such that the RF shield 632 terminates at an
open end 640. For instance, the RF shield 632 may be generally
cylindrical such that its cross-section is generally circular or
elliptical, or may be rectilinear or polygonal. As additional
examples, the RF shield 632 may be shaped as a box, cup, dome,
cone, cap, or bell. For defining the interior space 636, the RF
shield 632 may include a continuous wall 644 or a plurality of
adjoined walls 644. The interior space 636 is generally defined
within the confines of the wall(s) 644 of the RF shield 632, and
between the proximal end region 612 of the body 608 and the open
end 640 of the RF shield 632. Thus, the RF transceiver antenna 620
is positioned within the interior space 636. The wall(s) 644 may be
constructed from any material suitable for impeding the
transmission of RF energy through the wall(s) 644. Non-limiting
examples of suitable materials for the wall(s) 644 include, but are
not limited to, electrically conductive materials such as various
metals, as well as certain ceramics and polymers. As appreciated by
persons skilled in the art, the material utilized for RF shield 632
may depend on the frequency range within which an RFID tag
operates. In the case of a conductive metal, RF shield 632 may be
mounted to body 608 such that the shielding material is grounded to
improve the shielding function.
[0067] Also illustrated in FIG. 6 is a sample holder 650 that
includes one or more sample holding units. In the illustrated
example, three sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 are shown with
the understanding that more or less sample holding units may be
provided. The sample holder 650 may represent one or more sample
containers such as, for example, described above and illustrated in
FIG. 1 or 4. In this implementation, each sample holding unit 654,
658 and 662 may represent an individual sample container. Each
sample container includes a respective RFID tag 666, 670 and 674
such as, for example, described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4.
In another implementation, the sample holder 650 may represent a
sample holding assembly such as, for example, described above and
illustrated in FIG. 4. In this latter implementation, each sample
holding unit 654, 658 and 662 may represent an individual sample
container or multi-well plate supported by the sample holding
assembly, or a sample holding module or compartment (e.g., rack,
plate, tray, etc.) for supporting one or more sample containers. In
the latter implementation, respective RFID tags 666, 670 and 674
may be affixed to individual sample containers, individual wells of
a multi-well plate, individual multi-well plates, or individual
sections or modules of the sample holding assembly.
[0068] The provision of the RF shield 632 may be desirable in
implementations where the respective RFID tags associated with
separately identifiable items or objects are in very close
proximity to each other, the respective positions of the RFID tags
relative to their corresponding items are inconsistent from one
item to the next item, and/or the position of the RFID tag of one
or more items is not accurately known. In such situations, the
possibility exists that the RF transceiver antenna 620 will pick up
a signal from items other than the item of interest.
[0069] For example, FIG. 6 illustrates a situation in which the
RFID tags 666, 670 and 674 of the respective sample holding units
654, 658 and 662 are not uniformly positioned. For example, the
RFID tag 666 of the leftmost sample holding unit 654 is positioned
at or near the center of the sample holding unit 654, the RFID tag
670 of the central sample holding unit 658 is positioned at or near
the rightmost edge of the sample holding unit 658, and the RFID tag
674 of the rightmost sample holding unit 662 is positioned at or
near the leftmost edge of the sample holding unit 662. In this
example, it is desired to acquire the information stored in the
RFID tag 670 of the central sample holding unit 658. Accordingly,
the reader 604 has been positioned directly over the central sample
holding unit 658 such that the antenna 620 is in close proximity
with the RFID tag 670 of the central sample holding unit 658. As
described above, this positioning may be accomplished by moving the
reader 604 to the central sample holding unit 658, moving the
sample holding unit 658 to the reader 604 or, in the case of a
sample holder 650 containing a plurality of sample holding units
654, 658 and 662, moving the sample holder 650 such that the
central sample holding unit 658 is positioned directly under the
reader 604.
[0070] Of particular interest in this example is the relatively
close proximity of the respective RFID tags 670 and 674 of the
center and rightmost sample holding units 658 and 662 to each
other. In such a situation, it is possible for the reader 604 to
pick up a signal from the RFID tag 674 of the rightmost sample
holding unit 662, or for a signal from the RFID tag 674 of the
rightmost sample holding unit 662 to otherwise interfere with the
desired communication between the reader 604 and the RFID tag 670
of the central sample holding unit 658. Due to the close proximity
of the RFID tags 670 and 674, it is likely that the RFID tag 674
will provide a signal of similar magnitude to the signal provided
by the RFID tag 670 such that the RF processing circuitry 630
associated with the reader 604 may have difficulty discriminating
between the two signals and selectively reading the target RFID tag
670.
[0071] Several problems may arise from erroneous communication
between the reader 604 and a neighboring RFID tag (e.g., the RFID
tag 674 of the rightmost sample holding unit 662) instead of or in
addition to intended communication between the reader 604 and a
target RFID tag (e.g., the RFID tag 670 of the central sample
holding unit 658). As a few examples, the reader 604 may acquire
information from the wrong sample holding unit, the reader 604 may
erroneously identify a neighboring sample holding unit as being the
target sample holding unit of interest, the reader 604 may
determine an incorrect position of the target sample holding unit,
the reader 604 may erroneously determine that the target sample
holding unit is present or absent when in fact it is a neighboring
sample holding unit that is present or absent, etc.
[0072] As demonstrated in FIG. 6, however, the possibility of such
problems is eliminated or least greatly reduced through the
utilization of the RF shield 632. The RF shield 632 is sized such
that when the reader 604 is brought into proper position with an
intended target sample holding unit--the central sample holding
unit 658 in the present example--the RF transceiver antenna 620 of
the reader 604 and the RFID tag 670 of the target sample holding
unit 658 are both located within the interior space 636 established
by the RF shield 632. The RF shield 632 has the effect of isolating
the RF transceiver antenna 620 from the RFID tags of any
neighboring sample holding units (e.g., RFID tags 666 and
particularly 674). In a sense, the RF shield 632 "hides" the RFID
tags of neighboring sample holding units from view, thereby
providing enhanced positional selectivity. By way of example, FIG.
6 illustrates a desired wireless link or communication 678
established between the RF transceiver antenna 620 and the RFID tag
670 of the central sample holding unit 658 and an undesired
wireless link or communication 682 potentially established between
the RF transceiver antenna 620 and the RFID tag 674 of the
rightmost sample holding unit 662. The isolation provided by the RF
shield 632 prevents the undesired wireless link 678, or greatly
impedes successful communication via the undesired wireless link
678.
[0073] In the example specifically given in FIG. 6, when the reader
604 is lowered into place toward the central sample holding unit
658, the axial (e.g., vertical) dimension of the RF shield 632 is
large enough to completely enshroud the central sample holding unit
658, such that the open end 640 of the RF shield 632 is located at
or near the bottom of the central sample holding unit 658. It will
be understood, however, that the length of the lateral wall(s) 644
of the RF shield 632 need not be so great as to extend along the
full height of the central sample holding unit 658. The RF shield
632 need only be sized so as to effectively isolate the RF
transceiver antenna 620 from the RFID tags of neighboring sample
holding units such as the RFID tag 674 of the rightmost sample
holding unit 662. In this regard, it will be understood that the
sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 illustrated in FIG. 6 may
represent just the upper regions of respective sample containers.
In cases where the positions of RFID tags of adjacent sample
holding units are inconsistent as to height or depth, however, the
complete encasing of a target sample holding unit from neighboring
sample holding units may be desirable.
[0074] While FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which adjacent sample
holding units 654, 658 and 662 are physically separated from each
other by gaps or spacings 686, it can be appreciated that adjacent
sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 need only be demarcated by
grooves or channels. That is, the spacing 686 between adjacent
sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 do not need to extend for the
full height of the sample holding units 654, 658 and 662. It may be
sufficient for the spacing 686 to extend from the top surfaces of
the sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 and partially down the
sides of the sample holding units 654, 658 and 662. Moreover, the
spacing 686 may represent the distance between the upper regions of
adjacent sample containers, above the sample holder 650. Generally,
the size of gaps or grooves 686 between the sample holding units
654, 658 and 662 need only be sufficient to receive the RF shield
632 to the extent needed for effective RF signal isolation.
[0075] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an RFID apparatus or system
700 according to another implementation that provides an RF shield.
Many components and features of the RFID apparatus 700 illustrated
in FIG. 7 may generally be similar to those of the RFID apparatus
600 illustrated in FIG. 6. Accordingly, a full description of such
components and features will not be repeated in conjunction with
the description pertaining to FIG. 7. In implementations such as
illustrated in FIG. 6, the RF shield may be considered as being
associated with a reader. In implementations such as illustrated in
FIG. 7, the RF shield may be considered as being associated with
sample containers or a sample holding assembly, or as being a
component separate from both a reader and sample containers or a
sample holding assembly.
[0076] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the RFID apparatus 700 includes a
reader 704. The reader 704 includes a main body 708 and an RF
transceiver antenna 620. The reader 704 itself does not include an
RF shield but in other aspects may be similar to the reader 604
illustrated in FIG. 6. The RFID apparatus 700 further includes an
RF shielding structure 732 that includes a plurality of individual
RF-shielding wells or RF shields 734. The RF shielding structure
732 may serve as a sample holder in which each well 734 contains an
individual sample holding unit 654, 658 or 662, or may be
integrated with (or mounted to) a sample holder 750 in which each
compartment or sample holding module is protected by RF shielding
material of the RF shielding structure 732. As shown by example in
FIG. 7, the RF shielding structure 732 may include a plurality of
generally vertically oriented walls 744. Each wall 744 extends from
a gap or groove 786 between adjacent sample holding units 654, 658
and 662 and for a distance beyond the expected height of the sample
holding units 654, 658 and 662. The walls 744 may be constructed
from any material suitable for impeding the transmission of RF
energy through the walls 744, as described above. The walls 744 may
integrally extend from or otherwise be supported by a base 746. The
base 746 may be integrally part of either the RF shielding
structure 732 or a sample holder 750. The base 746 may also be
constructed from RF-shielding material if RF shielding at the
undersides of the sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 is desired,
or if such a configuration facilitates fabrication. The walls 744
may be shaped such that each well 734 is generally cylindrical or
polygonal as needed to accommodate the shapes of the sample holding
units 654, 658 and 662. Each resulting well 734 defines an interior
space 736 generally between the base 746 (or a sample holding unit
residing in the well 734) and an open end 740 of the well 734. The
open ends 740 of the wells 734 are located at a large enough
distance above the expected heights of the sample holding units
654, 658 and 662 so as to effectively isolate the wells 734, and
any sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 residing in the wells
734, from each other while the reader 704 is communicating with a
target RFID tag.
[0077] In practice, individual sample holding units 654, 658 and
662 such as sample containers are placed in respective wells 734 of
the RF shielding structure 732. Alternatively, a sample holder 750
containing individual sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 is
interfaced with the RF shielding structure 732 such that each
sample holding unit 654, 658 and 662 is positioned within a
corresponding well 734. In either case, the RFID tag 666, 670 and
674 of each respective sample holding unit 654, 658 and 662 is
positioned in the interior space 736 of a corresponding well 734. A
target sample holding unit--the central sample holding unit 658 in
the present example--is selected, and the reader 704 is moved to
the target sample holding unit 658. The reader 704 is lowered
toward the target sample holding unit 658. The reader 704 is
lowered far enough not only to establish a good communication link
678 between the RF transceiver antenna 620 and the RFID tag 670 of
the target sample holding unit 658, but also to position the RF
transceiver antenna 620 within the well 734 of the target sample
holding unit 658 and thus effectively isolate the RF transceiver
antenna 620 from the RFID tags of any neighboring sample holding
units.
[0078] FIG. 7 illustrates an arrangement of sample holding units
654, 658 and 662 analogous to the arrangement described above and
illustrated in FIG. 6, in which the RFID tags 666, 670 and 674 of
the respective sample holding units 654, 658 and 662 are not
consistently positioned. The shielding effect of the implementation
illustrated in FIG. 7 is likewise analogous to that of the
implementation illustrated in FIG. 6. The RF shielding structure
732 promotes interference-free communication 678 between the RF
transceiver antenna 620 and the RFID tag 670 of the target sample
holding unit 658, and prevents or significantly impedes
communication 682 between the RF transceiver antenna 620 and the
RFID tag of neighboring sample holding units such as the rightmost
sample holding unit 662.
[0079] In other implementations, features or elements of the RF
shielding components illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be combined.
For example, a reader 604 may be provided with an RF shield 632 as
shown in FIG. 6, and a sample holder 750 or sample holding units
654, 658 and 662 may be provided with RF shields or wells 734 as
shown in FIG. 7. The diameter of the RF shield 632 of FIG. 6 may
differ slightly from the diameters of the RF shields 734 of FIG. 7.
By such a configuration, upon moving the RF shield 632 into proper
position over a target sample holding unit, a lower portion of the
RF shield 632 may overlap with an upper portion of the RF shield
734 surrounding the target RFID tag to create a fully enclosed RF
shielding interior space 636 or 736.
[0080] In some implementations, when moving an RFID tag reader into
proper position over a target sample holding unit, it is possible
for the open end of the RF shield provided with the reader to come
into contact with a surface, such as a base supporting sample
holding units, a portion of the target sample holding unit itself,
or the bottom of the gap or groove surrounding the target sample
holding unit. Such contact may cause misalignment of or damage to
components and/or reduce the effectiveness of the isolation
provided by the RF shield.
[0081] FIG. 8 illustrates two examples of such a situation. In FIG.
8, two sample containers 854 and 858 are supported in a sample
holding tray 850. In these examples, similar to the example
illustrated in FIG. 1, each sample container 854 and 858 includes
an open-topped container structure 812 that includes a sidewall
814. Each sample container 854 and 858 is sealed at its open top
818 with a closure member 824 that is retained by an apertured end
member or cap 821. In each example, an RFID reader device 804,
including a main body 808, RF transceiver antenna 820 and RF shield
832 with an open end 840, has been moved into position over the
sample container 854 or 858. In the case of the left sample
container 854, the diameter of its open top 840 (as well as its
closure member 824 and end member 821) is significantly narrower
than the diameter of its sidewall 814, such that the sidewall 814
of the left sample container 854 has a protruding shoulder region
815. Thus, in the case of the left sample container 854, it is
possible for the open end 840 of the RF shield 832 to come into
contact with the shoulder 815 during positioning of the reader 804.
In the case of the right sample container 858, the diameter of its
open top 840 (or its closure member 824 and end member 821) is
substantially the same as the diameter of its sidewall 814, such
that the sidewall 814 of the right sample container 858 has a
non-obstructing shoulder region 817. Thus, in the case of the right
sample container 858, the RF shield 832 may be lowered farther down
the side of the sample container 858, bypassing the shoulder region
817, but it is nonetheless possible for the RF shield 832 to come
into contact with the top of the sample holding tray 850 (or the
bottom of a gap surrounding the sample container 858 if such a gap
is provided) during positioning of the reader 804. In the case of
either example, if the sample containers 854 and 858 are closely
positioned to each other in the sample holding tray 850, it is
possible for the RF shield 832 to come into contact with a
neighboring sample container while being moved into position over
the target sample container.
[0082] To prevent the RF shield 832 or its associated reader 804
from becoming misaligned or damaged from impacting an obstruction,
and to ensure the effectiveness of RF isolation in such case, the
RF shield 832 may be connected to the main body 808 of the reader
804 so as to be movable (e.g., retractable) relative to the reader
804, as depicted by the arrow 882 in FIG. 8. Any suitable
mechanical solution may be implemented to render the RF shield 832
retractable. For example, as illustrated with the left sample
container 854 in FIG. 8, the RF shield 832 may include generally
horizontal arms or legs 884 that are movable in generally vertical
slots or tracks 886 provided at the side of the reader 804. As
another example, as illustrated with the right sample container
858, the RF shield 832 may include concentric telescoping sections
888 and 890, with at least one of the sections being movable
relative to the other(s), to enable retracting movement upon
encountering an obstruction. In some implementations, the
retractive movement of the RF shield 832 may be biased by any
suitable spring-loading means. For example, the RF shield 832 may
be mounted to the body 808 of the reader 804 with the use of one or
more springs (not shown).
[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, another example of an RFID
tag 900 is illustrated. The RFID tag 900 may be utilized in
conjunction with any of the implementations described in this
disclosure. Referring to the top planar view of FIG. 9, the RFID
tag 900 includes a microchip 910 attached to a substrate 916. As
appreciated by persons skilled in the art, the microchip 910 may
include circuitry that implements various functions such as, for
example, memory, power generation, and/or control. In this example,
the RFID tag 900 has a built-in antenna design. Specifically, the
microchip 910 communicates with an antenna 918 that is also
attached to the same surface of the substrate 916. The antenna 918
may be formed as a planar (or substantially flat) coil surrounding
the microchip 910 along several turns, such that the length of the
antenna 918 is distributed over a large portion of the illustrated
surface of the substrate 916. The elongate structure (e.g., wire or
strip) employed to form the antenna 918 may be circular or planar
in cross-section. While in the illustrated example the coil of the
antenna 918 is configured as contiguous rectilinear loops with
several straight sections adjoined at corners, it will be
understood that the coil may have any other suitable configuration.
For example, the coil may be configured so as to spiral outwardly
from the microchip 910. The foregoing components of the RFID tag
900 may be disposed on, or embedded in, an additional element such
as a protective base or casing 922. The base or casing 922 may be
fabricated from any suitable material that may provide thermal,
moisture, ultraviolet (UV), impact and/or electrical isolation or
protection. For example, the base or casing 922 may be constructed
from various types of plastics. The base or casing 922 may be
circular as illustrated or may have any other suitable shape. The
side elevation view of FIG. 10 illustrates the example in which the
protective element 922 is a casing and the components of the RFID
tag 900 are embedded in the protective casing 922.
[0084] In one non-limiting example, one or more sides 926 of the
substrate 916 have a length ranging from about 0.5 to about 10 mm,
the width of the elongate structure forming the antenna 918 ranges
from about 5 to about 50 .mu.m, and the gap 930 between each
adjacent section of the antenna 918 ranges from about 2 to about 8
.mu.m. In one particular example, the length of each side 926 of
the substrate 916 is about 2.5 mm, the width of the elongate
structure forming the antenna 918 is about 14 .mu.m, and the gap
930 between each adjacent section of the antenna 918 is about 4
.mu.m. In one implementation, the RFID tag 900 may be provided as a
Coil-on-Chip.TM. device commercially available from Maxell
Corporation of America, Fair Lawn, N.J.
[0085] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of an arrangement 1100 of sample
containers for which respective RFID tags 900 of the type
illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 are provided. Specifically, the
respective RFID tags 900 are mounted on respective upper structures
1104 of the sample containers. The upper structures 1104 may, for
example, correspond to or be part of the end member or cap 120 or
821 illustrated in FIG. 1 or 8. Alternatively, as described further
below, the upper structures 1104 may be additional components that
are mounted to the sample containers. Each upper structure 1104 may
include an aperture 1108 for providing access to the sample
container. Unlike the implementations illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2,
the RFID tag 900 is not configured so as to be coaxially disposed
about the central axis of the sample container, or around the
aperture 1108 of the upper structure 1104. Instead, as illustrated
in FIG. 11, the RFID tag 900, including its antenna 918 (FIG. 9),
is positioned off-center relative to the central axis and the
aperture 1108.
[0086] In the ideal arrangement 1100 illustrated in FIG. 11, the
RFID tags 900 provided with the array of sample containers are all
oriented uniformly relative to each other. In such a case, the
off-center orientations of the RFID tags 900 may not be expected to
cause any difficulties in the operation of an RFID tag reader. Each
RFID tag 900 is spaced at an appreciable distance from neighboring
RFID tags 900, and the design and operation of the RFID tag reader
could be implemented in consideration of the uniform orientation
illustrated in FIG. 11. On the other hand, unless steps are taken
to control the orientation of the RFID tags 900 (or the upper
structures 1104 to which they are mounted), the uniform arrangement
1100 is not ensured. For example, FIG. 12 is a top plan view of an
arrangement 1200 of sample containers in which the RFID tags 900
are not uniformly oriented relative to each other. It can be seen
in FIG. 12 that some of the neighboring RFID tags 900 are
positioned quite close together. In such a situation, problems
associated with the proper interaction between the RFID tag reader
and a target RFID tag may arise, such as described above in
conjunction with FIGS. 6 and 7. Accordingly, the provision of RF
shielding devices 632 or 732 such as described above in conjunction
with FIGS. 6-8 may be useful in implementations that employ
off-center RFID tags 900.
[0087] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a sample container 1300
such as a vial according to another implementation. The sample
container 1300 includes an open-topped container structure 1312
that includes a sidewall 1314 and a closed bottom end 1316. The
sample container 1300 may be sealed at its open top 1318 with a
closure member 1324 that is retained by an end member or cap 1321.
The cap 1321 may have an aperture 1322 to provide access to the
interior of the container structure 1312. Access may be effected by
puncturing the closure member 1324 if the closure member 1324 is
provided. In this implementation, the sample container 1300
includes an additional end member or cap 1342 that may be mounted
onto the first cap 1321. The second cap 1342 may be configured to
be secured to the first cap 1321 by any suitable means such as, for
example, press-on fitting or threaded engagement. In
implementations where the first cap 1321 has an aperture 1322, the
second cap 1342 may likewise have an aperture 1343 generally
aligned with the aperture 1322. The second cap 1342 may be employed
to provide additional protection for the sample container 1300, and
may be utilized in conjunction with any of the implementations
described in this disclosure. In addition, the second cap 1342 may
serve as a mounting location for an RFID tag. For example, a recess
1386 may be formed in the second cap 1342, and the RFID tag 900
illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 may be positioned in the recess 1386
in off-center or radially offset relation to the central
longitudinal axis of the sample container 1300. For these purposes,
the second cap 1342 may be fabricated from any suitable material
such as, for example, plastic. The second cap 1342 enables the RFID
tag 900 to be easily removed from the sample container 1300, and
thus easily reprogrammed apart from the sample container 1300 and
reused with the same sample container 1300 or a different sample
container.
[0088] From the foregoing, it may be seen that implementations
disclosed herein can provide advantages over barcode technology and
other previous techniques for identifying samples. For example, the
RF transceiver antenna of a reader does not require a line of sight
with an RFID tag in order to detect the information stored by the
RFID tag, whereas barcode scanners need to "see" a barcode in order
to read it. Moreover, RFID tags are insensitive to orientation with
a reader, whereas a barcode must be optically aligned with a
barcode scanner. RFID tags allow for individual sample containers
to have unique identifiers and can quickly identify several
individual samples either simultaneously or sequentially, whereas
the typical barcode provides only an identification of a
manufacturer and product. In closely arranged groupings of sample
containers, an RF transceiver antenna and a selected RFID tag can
communicate without interference or error due to the proximity of
other tagged sample containers. RFID tags are much more robust than
barcode labels, and have much longer useful lives. RFID tags are
much more resistant to potential laboratory mishaps such as
smearing, solvent exposure, abrasion, obstruction, and the like.
RFID tags are programmable and may further be reprogrammable. The
same RFID tag can be recoded with new information when desired. An
RFID tag in many implementations can store much more information
than is possible with a barcode label. The RFID tags in combination
with RF-based readers may be easily integrated into existing sample
handling systems without unduly affecting any other pre-existing,
more conventional operations of such systems. Because an RF
interrogation element such as an antenna can be easily incorporated
into a moving component such as a device or assembly supporting a
sample conduit, the implementations disclosed herein introduce the
concept of moving the RF interrogation element to sample
containers. Individual sample containers do not need to be moved to
reading or scanning stations or the like.
[0089] Moreover, it may be seen that implementations disclosed
herein may eliminate or significantly reduce the occurrence of
cross-reading among closely spaced RFID tags of separately
identifiable objects such as sample containers, particularly when
the positions of RFID tags relative to their objects are not
well-controlled.
[0090] It will be understood that various aspects or details of the
invention may be changed without departing from the scope of the
invention. Furthermore, the foregoing description is for the
purpose of illustration only, and not for the purpose of
limitation-the invention being defined by the claims.
* * * * *