Intern Project

Tracking sample trays in histopathology 

Intern Project 2026 | Internship

Overview

In summer 2026, HDI’s interns worked with the histopathology team at Addenbrooke’s Hospital to develop THOR — Tracking Healthcare Objects by Ranging. The project explored how wireless technology could help laboratory staff check the location of sample trays as they move between different stages of processing. 

What was the challenge? 

Histopathology involves examining tissue samples to help diagnose disease. During processing, samples are held in small labelled containers called cassettes, which are carried in trays between work areas. 

The team’s task was to develop a practical way of showing where these trays are in the lab, making that information available to staff without adding extra steps to their work. They visited the laboratory and spoke with staff to understand how samples move through the department and what the system would need to do. 

How does THOR work? 

THOR uses small wireless tags on sample trays and fixed reference devices, known as anchors, mounted on the lab ceiling. The project draws on earlier HDI interns’ work on wireless tags. 

When a tray moves, its tag detects the movement. Once the tray stops, measurements between the tag and nearby anchors are used to calculate its position. The location is then displayed on a digital map that staff can view through a website. 

The team also developed a dashboard to check the tags’ battery levels and help identify devices that need attention. 

Making the location estimates more accurate 

Turning wireless measurements into a reliable position on a map was a mathematical challenge. Signals can reflect off surfaces or be affected by objects in the lab, producing readings that do not always agree. 

The interns tested the system and refined their calculations to reduce the effect of these inconsistent readings. They combined multiple measurements, gave less weight to readings that conflicted with the others and checked the estimated positions against the lab’s floor plan. 

They also explored how the number and arrangement of anchors affected coverage and accuracy. This helped them understand the balance between the equipment needed and the level of detail the system could provide. 

Developing and testing the system 

The project brought together hardware, software and practical testing. The interns worked across these areas, developing the tracking calculations, building the website and installing a pilot system in the laboratory. 

They used large language models (LLMs) to support coding and problem solving, helping them explore ideas and develop the software more quickly. They also considered the costs of installation and how the system might be extended to other laboratory spaces. 

What’s next for THOR? 

By the end of the internship, the team had installed a working pilot showing the estimated positions of tagged trays on a live map. Further testing will help establish how well it supports everyday laboratory work and where improvements are needed. 

The interns also explored potential further developments, including a camera to scan each tray and identify the cassettes it contains. Linking these cassette identifiers to a tray’s tag could allow staff to locate an individual sample through the system. 

THOR remains a pilot. The team’s work gives HDI and the Addenbrooke’s laboratory team a foundation for further development. 

HDI Team:

Filis Liu | Ioana Preda | Nick Robinson | Rebeca Fiadeiro | Tim Gentry