External Trigger Camera System for Industrial Automation and Field Monitoring

⭐Case Study: Automated Triggered Image Capture System for IVF Sample Tube Label Tracking

Project Location

Tianjin, China

1. Customer Background

Tianjin Novogene (Novogene Co., Ltd.) is a leading enterprise in the life sciences industry, specializing in genomics sequencing, clinical testing, and other advanced biotechnology services.

In daily operations, the company processes a large volume of IVF sample tubes with barcode and numeric labels. Accurate and efficient identification and recording of these labels is critical for downstream data traceability and laboratory management.

2. Key Challenges

Previously, label information was captured using handheld manual photography devices. This approach created several operational bottlenecks:

· Low efficiency in high-throughput sample environments

· Inconsistent image quality due to manual positioning

· Misaligned or unclear label images affecting recognition accuracy

· File naming errors during manual data saving

· Difficulties in ensuring end-to-end data traceability

These issues significantly impacted data accuracy and operational efficiency in sample management workflows.

3. Solution Overview

To address these challenges, we deployed our proprietary solution:

SC-GP-CAMIO External Triggered Camera System

The system is designed for automated image acquisition of sample tube labels containing QR codes and numeric identifiers.

It enables:

· Automatic high-resolution image capture upon external trigger signals

· Real-time data upload to FTP server

· Standardized and traceable image recording process

· Seamless integration into laboratory workflows

4. Product Features

The SC-GP-CAMIO system supports multiple industrial connectivity options:

· WiFi / 4G / Ethernet network connectivity

· External IO signal trigger (PLC compatible)

· API-based remote triggering

· Flexible integration with automation systems

After triggering, images are:

· Automatically uploaded to a designated FTP server

· Simultaneously stored on local SD card for backup

· Protected against data loss in case of network failure

The system can also operate via 4G network, making it suitable for remote or non-WiFi environments.

5. Implementation Process

The camera system was installed directly above the sample tube workstation at a height of approximately 30 cm, ensuring optimal focus and capture angle.

After power and network configuration:

· A single press of the green trigger button initiates image capture

· The system executes a precise “one trigger – one image” workflow

· Captured images are instantly uploaded to the client’s FTP server

· No manual intervention is required throughout the process

This creates a fully automated workflow:

Trigger → Capture → Upload → Archive

6. Results & Benefits

The solution successfully replaced the traditional manual photography process and significantly improved operational efficiency.

Key outcomes include:

· Greatly improved sample processing efficiency

· Eliminated human errors in image capture and file naming

· Standardized imaging quality and labeling consistency

· Fully traceable digital archive of all sample tube labels

· Stronger foundation for laboratory data review and error tracking

Each sample is now supported by a clear visual record, ensuring that every label is accurately documented and easily traceable.

This system provides a reliable data backbone for:

· Laboratory workflow optimization

· Experimental review and validation

· Long-term sample traceability 

⭐ Summary

By implementing the SC-GP-CAMIO external triggered imaging system, Tianjin Novogene transformed a manual, error-prone labeling process into a fully automated, standardized, and traceable digital workflow.

This solution significantly enhances accuracy, efficiency, and data integrity in high-throughput life science sample management environments.