Departure time visualization method and system

Abstract

A method for visualizing the status of a diagnostic laboratory system includes receiving computer-readable data at a system controller, the computer-readable data including analyzers included in the diagnostic laboratory system and test requirements for types and quantities of tests to be performed on samples by the analyzers, wherein each of the analyzers includes consumable items and maintenance items. The method also includes determining, via a time-out estimation module executed on the system controller, an estimated time-out for the analyzer based on the test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items. As with other aspects, a diagnostic laboratory system with time-out estimation is disclosed.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 882,724, filed on August 5, 2019, entitled “PROACTIVE AND PREDICTIVE WALKAWAY TIME,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for providing operational information for a diagnostic laboratory having one or more analyzers. Background Art

[0004] Diagnostic laboratories include medical devices ("analyzers") used to perform in vitro tests, which semi-automatically process test orders received from a laboratory information system (LIS). In some systems, laboratory technicians can load biological specimens onto the laboratory's various analyzers, define the tests to be performed, load the necessary test materials (e.g., test-specific reagents, bulk reagents, diluents, wash solutions, reaction vessels, and pipette tips), and run the tests on the analyzers. After starting a test on each analyzer, the laboratory technician can step away from those analyzers for a period of time and attend to other tasks in the laboratory while the analyzers automatically process the samples and generate test results. The amount of time a laboratory technician can be away from any particular analyzer is referred to as the analyzer's "away time" (WAT). However, understanding the WAT of any particular analyzer can be challenging for laboratory technicians, especially in diagnostic laboratories that include a large number of analyzers due to the sheer number of projects that need to be processed and the varying testing needs.

[0005] Thus, there is an unmet need to improve the understanding and manipulation of WAT for analyzers and for diagnostic laboratories comprising a large number of analyzers. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first embodiment, a method for visualizing the status of a diagnostic laboratory is provided. The method includes: receiving computer-readable data at a system controller, the computer-readable data including a list of analyzers included in the diagnostic laboratory and test requirements for types and quantities of tests to be performed on samples by the analyzers, wherein each of the analyzers includes consumable items and maintenance items; and determining, via a time-out estimation module executed on the system controller, an estimated time-out of the analyzer based on the test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a method for a diagnostic laboratory is provided. The method includes: receiving computer-readable data at a system controller, the computer-readable data being test requirements regarding a plurality of analyzers included in the diagnostic laboratory and types and quantities of tests to be performed on samples by the plurality of analyzers, wherein each of the plurality of analyzers includes consumable items and maintenance items; determining, via a time-out prediction module executed on the system controller, an estimated time-out for the analyzer based on the test requirements and status of the consumable items and maintenance items; displaying the estimated time-out for the diagnostic laboratory; and identifying one or more additional actions selectable to increase the estimated time-out for the diagnostic laboratory.

[0008] In another aspect, a diagnostic laboratory system is provided. The diagnostic laboratory system includes: a plurality of analyzers included in the diagnostic laboratory system and configured to perform a test on a sample, wherein each of the plurality of analyzers includes a consumable item consumed when performing the test and a maintenance item to be performed for continued operation of the analyzer; and a system controller coupled to the plurality of analyzers, the system controller including: a time-out estimation module executable on the system controller to provide an estimated time-out for the plurality of analyzers based on the test demand and the status of the consumable items and the maintenance item.

[0009] In another aspect, a method for visualizing the status of an analyzer is provided. The method includes receiving, at a controller of the analyzer, computer-readable data of historical test requirements for types and quantities of tests to be performed by the analyzer on samples, wherein the analyzer includes consumable items and maintenance items; and determining, via a time-out estimation module executed on the controller, an estimated time-out of the analyzer based on the historical test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items.

[0010] In another aspect, an analyzer is provided. The analyzer includes a controller of the analyzer, the controller including: a test demand module configured to receive computer-readable data of historical test demand for types and quantities of tests performed by the analyzer on samples over a previous time period, wherein the analyzer also includes consumable items consumed when performing the tests and maintenance items to be performed for continued operation of the analyzer; and a departure time estimation module executable on the controller to provide an estimated departure time of the analyzer based on the test demand estimated from the historical test demand data over a planned time period and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items.

[0011] Other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description and illustration of exemplary embodiments, including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. The present disclosure is also capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details may be modified in various respects, all without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The drawings described below are for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

[0013] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram illustrating a diagnostic laboratory system including a walk away time (WAT) estimation module according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating a representative analyzer including consumable items used in testing and maintenance items to enable continuous testing in accordance with the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 3 An exemplary diagram illustrating a WAT ​​item input screen according to the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 4 An exemplary diagram illustrating a WAT ​​status and action screen of an analyzer of a diagnostic laboratory system according to the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 5 An exemplary diagram illustrating a WAT ​​status and action screen of an analyzer of a diagnostic laboratory system according to the present disclosure is shown, wherein an additional action is selected and confirmation of the selection is provided.

[0018] Figure 6 An exemplary schematic diagram illustrating a group action screen of an analyzer of a diagnostic laboratory system according to the present disclosure, with additional group actions selected.

[0019] Figure 7 A schematic block diagram of an analyzer according to the present disclosure is shown, the analyzer including a walk away time (WAT) estimation module taking into account historical test demand information.

[0020] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a status visualization method for a diagnostic laboratory according to the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 9 is a flow chart of a state visualization method of an analyzer according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In large diagnostic laboratory systems that include a large number of analyzers, it is desirable to increase efficiency as much as possible. When there are several analyzers and possibly other support modules (e.g., sample processors) included in a diagnostic laboratory, it is a significant challenge for one or even a small number of laboratory technicians to efficiently replace all consumable items and perform all required maintenance projects without some testing downtime. Therefore, according to a first embodiment, a method is provided that determines the WAT of each of those analyzers and support modules and optionally also determines the minimum WAT of the entire diagnostic laboratory system. If the WAT is visible to the laboratory technician (one or more), they can focus on other tasks in the diagnostic laboratory without adversely affecting the productivity and turnaround time of the analyzers. Knowing the WAT improves the productivity and efficiency of the entire diagnostic laboratory process and can minimize work downtime.

[0023] The WAT of each analyzer and support module depends on several factors, including the samples provided and the tests ordered and / or expected, the fill level of consumable items, and the completion or status of maintenance items for the analyzer or support module (e.g., the emptying of liquid and / or solid waste(s)). For each analyzer or support module, the WAT begins at the time of the technician's last physical contact point with the analyzer or module. While the analyzer or support module is operating, the WAT is continuously decreasing until the laboratory technician must interact with the analyzer or support module again (at zero minutes), i.e., to, for example, reload or refill one or more consumable items and / or perform a maintenance item (e.g., emptying solid waste).

[0024] According to the present disclosure, the term "estimated WAT" for an analyzer is defined as the amount of time that can pass before a technician must interact with the analyzer again to avoid a test stop. In theory, the estimated WAT of an analyzer or support module can be defined by properties related to the current state of the analyzer or support module (including the number of loaded samples, the number of assigned tests, the fill level of consumables, the level of waste, etc.). Therefore, in one aspect, for one or more of the analyzer and / or support modules, the estimated WAT can be visible to the laboratory technician (one or more) (e.g., displayed to the laboratory technician (one or more)). In addition, the minimum estimated WAT of the diagnostic laboratory system can also be determined. The minimum estimated WAT of the diagnostic laboratory system can be displayed.

[0025] In addition, in another aspect of the present disclosure, knowing the estimated WAT of the analyzer and / or the entire diagnostic laboratory system, additional action options can be identified, and the additional action options can be adopted to increase the estimated WAT. The additional action options can be based on the current status of the analyzers and / or support modules of the entire laboratory. Options can be provided for each analyzer or options can be provided to extend the estimated WAT, and for each option, it is estimated how much the estimated WAT can be increased by completing the action option. In addition, once the laboratory technician selects the action option to be completed, the system can prompt the technician to confirm the completion of the action option.

[0026] Additionally, in some embodiments, the estimated WAT of an analyzer and / or the entire laboratory system can be based on a demand estimate. The demand estimate can be based on historical data, such as the composition and quantity of tests ordered during specific past time periods similar to the current planned time period. For example, in a diagnostic laboratory system with a limited test menu (e.g., 5-10 tests that can be selected), a good estimate of the number and type of tests performed during historical time periods can be used to estimate demand for similar time periods in future planned time periods with the same or similar test menu.

[0027] This article will refer to Figure 1-9 Description: These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure of a method for visualizing the status of a diagnostic laboratory, a method for visualizing the status of an analyzer, and a diagnostic laboratory analyzer and system including a WAT ​​estimation module are described.

[0028] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown and described, a plurality of analyzers 1041-104 are provided. n Diagnostic laboratory system 100. Analyzers 1041-104 n Can be any inventory-consumable diagnostic analyzer, such as a clinical chemistry analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, an in vitro analyzer, a hematology analyzer, a molecular analyzer, etc. These analyzers 1041-104 n It can be as follows.

[0029] As used herein, an in vitro analyzer broadly refers to any analyzer adapted for testing a sample obtained from a human body (such as blood, urine, saliva, etc.). An in vitro analyzer measures the concentration of a specific substance or analyte (such as sodium or cholesterol), or detects the presence or absence of a specific marker or set of markers (such as a genetic mutation or an immune response to infection), and can be used to monitor a person's overall health to help cure, treat, or prevent disease. An in vitro analyzer can test for hepatitis, HIV, clinical chemistry, coagulation or other blood characteristics or components, urine characteristics, pregnancy, blood sugar, cholesterol, cancer diagnosis, human genetics, tissue typing, the presence of drugs of abuse or therapeutic drugs, and the like.

[0030] As used herein, a clinical chemistry analyzer means an analyzer that is adapted to assay samples (such as serum, plasma, urine, saliva or sputum, cerebrospinal fluid, etc.) to detect the presence of an analyte associated with a disease or a chemical component associated with a drug. Analytes typically include enzymes, substrates, electrolytes, and specific proteins. Drugs can include drugs of abuse and / or therapeutic drugs. Common clinical chemistry tests include tests for the concentration of glucose, hemoglobin A1c, sodium, potassium, chloride, lithium, phosphorus, calcium, cholesterol (HDL, LDL), triglycerides, C-reactive protein, bilirubin, lipase, total protein, iron, magnesium, creatinine kinase, urea nitrogen, thyroid stimulating hormone, etc. Other clinical chemistry tests can be run.

[0031] As used herein, an immunoassay analyzer refers to an analyzer adapted to perform a chemical test for detecting or quantifying a specific component in a biological sample using an immune reaction. Immunoassay analyzers are highly sensitive and specific, deriving from the use of antibodies and purified antigens as reagents. Immunoassay analyzers measure the formation of antibody-antigen complexes and detect them via an indicator reaction. High sensitivity is achieved by using an indicator system (e.g., an enzyme label) that amplifies the product being tested. Immunoassays can be qualitative (positive or negative) or quantitative (measured amount). Quantitative immunoassay analyzers measure the signal generated by the indicator reaction.

[0032] Immunoassay analyzers are capable of measuring (or detecting in qualitative assays) an analyte. Immunoassays are methods used to measure analytes present at very low concentrations that cannot be accurately determined by other, less expensive tests. Common uses include measuring drugs, hormones, specific proteins, tumor markers, and markers of cardiac damage, or detecting antigens on infectious agents and antibodies, such as those on Haemophilus, Cryptococcus, and Streptococcus organisms in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of meningitis patients. They are also used to detect antigens associated with difficult-to-culture organisms, such as hepatitis B virus and Chlamydia trichomatis, and for antibodies produced in viral hepatitis, HIV, and Lyme disease.

[0033] A hematology analyzer as used herein means an analyzer adapted to perform tests on blood, such as a complete blood count (CBC panel) (which can include red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin concentration, and platelet count), hematocrit volume, white blood cell differential count, red blood cell distribution width, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, etc.

[0034] As used herein, a molecular analyzer is an analyzer adapted to perform molecular biology methods in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and biophysics involving the manipulation and analysis of DNA, RNA, proteins, and / or lipids. In particular, molecular biology analyzers are used to analyze biomarkers in genomes and proteomes and can be used to detect infectious diseases in oncology, human leukocyte antigen typing, coagulation, and pharmacogenomics (e.g., genetic prediction of drugs that may provide effective treatments).

[0035] The diagnostic laboratory system 100 can include any number and mix of the above types of analyzers as analyzers 1041-104 n Additionally, in some embodiments, the diagnostic laboratory system 100 may include a sample mover 106 that may be used to move samples to the analyzers 1041-104 n .

[0036] In particular, the diagnostic laboratory system 100 may include a plurality of analyzers 1041 to 104 n , where n is an integer. In some embodiments, the analyzers 1041 to 104 n The number can be one, greater than 1, greater than 3, greater than 6, greater than 10, greater than 20, greater than 50, greater than 100, or even greater than 200. In some embodiments, one or more sample movers 106 (such as automated tracks, etc.) can be used to transport samples to be tested to the various analyzers 1041 to 1044.n The sample mover 106 may be configured to transport a sample container containing a sample, such as a blood collection tube (not shown), to each of the analyzers 1041 to 104 n And from each analyzer 1041 to 104 n Transporting the sample containers and transporting the sample containers to and from other locations within the diagnostic laboratory system 100. Each sample container may be provided with one or more labels that may include identifying information about the sample container, such as a timestamp, sample identification, requested test(s), patient identification, etc. The label(s) may include, for example, a bar code, and / or have alphanumeric information printed thereon. The identifying information may be machine-readable at various locations about the diagnostic laboratory system 100 so that the location of the sample on the system can always be known. The sample mover 106 may be an automated track such as a rail track (e.g., a single track or multiple tracks), a batch conveyor, a conveyor chain, a movable platform, or any other suitable type of transport mechanism. The automated track may be circular or have another suitable shape and may be a closed track (e.g., a loop track) and may have one or more branches or legs where one or more analyzers (e.g., analyzers 1041 to 1044) are connected. n The carrier may be part of the sample transporter 106 and may operate on the sample transporter 106 to deliver samples in sample containers to various locations on the transport path of the sample transporter 106.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the diagnostic laboratory system 100 further includes a system controller 110, which is configured and operable to execute the state visualization method of the diagnostic laboratory system 100 and provide status visualization of the analyzers 1041-104 of the diagnostic laboratory system 100 and / or in the diagnostic laboratory system 100. n As output, the sample mover 106 may include an estimated walk away time (WAT) 121 for one or more or all of the items. If subject to a maintenance item, the sample mover 106 may also include an estimated WAT, which may be calculated.

[0038] Each analyzer 1041-104 in the diagnostic laboratory system 100 n The plurality of analyzers 1041-1042 are configured to perform tests on samples, wherein each test can be selected from a menu of tests established for each analyzer. The test menu for each analyzer can be different. Some of the tests can be the same, such as for tests that are in high demand. n Each of the analyzers 1041-104 nThe plurality of analyzers 1041-104 n Each of the analyzers 1041-104 n Included in order to provide analyzer 1041-104 n Maintenance items 107 to be performed for continued operation.

[0039] Each analyzer 1041-104 n The consumable items 105 can be, but are not limited to, the analyzers 1041-104 n Any material or device consumed in running a portion of a test. For example, consumable items 105 can include, but are not limited to, one or more of test-specific reagents, bulk reagents, calibrators, conditioners, control liquids (QC liquids), diluents, washes, pipette tips, and reaction vessels. n Each of the analyzers 1041-104 n The associated maintenance items 107 can include the emptying of solid waste and / or liquid waste. If other maintenance items are scheduled to be completed, they may also be included.

[0040] The diagnostic laboratory system 100 can also include a system controller 110 that is coupled to the plurality of analyzers 104 1 - 104 , such as via a suitable communication network 109 . n The communication network 109 may be a communication network that allows the system controller 110 and the corresponding plurality of analyzers 1041-104 n The diagnostic laboratory system 100 can also include communications between the system controller 110 and the one or more sample movers 106 , such as via any suitable communications network 109 .

[0041] As shown, the system controller 110 includes a memory 113 (e.g., RAM, ROM, other storage devices, or a combination thereof) configured to receive and store program instructions and other information / data for estimating the WAT of each analyzer, sample mover 106, and / or the diagnostic laboratory system 100. The system controller 110 may also include a processor 116 (e.g., a CPU, microprocessor, or other similar processing device) configured to execute the program instructions. The system controller 110 may further include a communication interface 118 that enables the system controller 110 to be coupled to a laboratory information system (LIS) 108, a sample mover 106, one or more other components 111 (such as various sensors, bar code readers, robotic mechanisms, sample container loading and / or unloading areas, pre-processing stations (which may include, for example, automated centrifuges and sample pre-screening modules, such as for screening for hemolysis, icterus, and lipemia (HIL) or other artifacts (such as bubbles, clots, foam)), decappers, aliquoters, etc.), and analyzers 1041 to 1044. n , and communicates with the laboratory information system (LIS) 108, the sample mover 106, the one or more other components 111, and the analyzers 1041 to 104 n In some embodiments, the communication interface 118 may be capable of communicating via the communication network 109. The communication interface 118 may be capable of communicating via the communication channels 1471 to 147 n With various analyzers 1041 to 104 n Docking and communicating.

[0042] Communication channels 1471 to 147 n It can be part of the communication network 109, which enables the system controller 110 to communicate with each analyzer 1041 to 104 nThe system controller 100 may be configured to communicate data between various associated workstations or computers. In some embodiments, the communication network 109 may include, for example, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a power line communication (PLC) network, or the like, wherein the system controller 100 may operate as a cloud-based server. The system controller 110 may include an operator interface 112, which may be configured to receive input data from an operator (such as a laboratory technician 114) regarding various operational modules used to perform one or more WAT estimates. If the system controller 100 is cloud-based, the operator interface 112 may include system components, such as a workstation, tablet computer, local computer, or server, that can be used to provide data input locally and receive estimated WAT 121 from a cloud server. The operator interface 112 may include a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or other manipulation device for data input and instructions.

[0043] The system controller 110 may also include a departure time estimation module 115 stored in the memory 113 and including programming code executable on the processor 116 of the system controller 100 to provide the analyzers 1041-104 n One or more of the estimated WAT 121, each analyzer 1041-104 n The estimated WAT 121 of the diagnostic laboratory system 100 and / or the minimum WAT of the entire diagnostic laboratory system 100. The estimated WAT in each case is based on the testing requirements and on the status of each of the consumable items 105 and the maintenance items 107.

[0044] In the present diagnostic laboratory system 100 and methods described herein, details regarding the workload (demand) occurring within the diagnostic laboratory system 100, such as information regarding the number of samples and the tests requested for each sample, can be obtained from the test demand module 117. The test demand module 117 can receive and generate estimated test demand based on:

[0045] 1) Input from laboratory technician 114,

[0046] 2) From the one or more analyzers 1041-104 n Received input,

[0047] 3) Input from LIS 108, and / or

[0048] 4) Input from historical records of test requirements.

[0049] In more detail, the test demand module 117 can predict the estimated test demand over the selected planning time period. The test demand estimate can be based on the test information input by the laboratory technician 114, which can be obtained from the analyzers 1041-104 n The number of tests to be run for each test option on the test menu of the laboratory technician 114 is based on the laboratory technician's 114 understanding of the composition of daily tests. In addition, the test information can be based on the number of tests to be run by the analyzers 1041-104 n Alternatively, the test information may be an estimate of the test requirements for the actual test runs to be performed. Alternatively, the test information may be an estimate of the test requirements based on actual test order data received from the LIS 108, such as tests to be performed over a planned time period (such as half a shift, a full shift, or longer). In some embodiments, the test information may be based on stored historical data, such as data from each of the analyzers 1041-1044 over a suitably similar time period in the past (such as a shift, a day, a week, a month, etc.). n An estimate of test requirements based on the data.

[0050] The test demand estimate used to determine the estimated WAT can be a subset of a larger data set so that the test demand estimate only considers a limited time frame (e.g., a planning time period). The planning time period is the time period over which the WAT estimate is run and can be user-selectable. Typically, the WAT estimate is run by the WAT estimation module 115 over a planning time period that is shorter than or equal to the length of the available test information.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG, each analyzer 1041 to 104 nThe analyzers 1 - 1041 (shown as representative examples) can contain or have associated therewith some type of reagent pack holder configured and adapted to support reagent packs containing one or more test-specific reagents 225. Other reagent packages can be used. The reagent pack holder can have a configuration suitable for a particular type of analyzer. Each reagent pack holder can include a plurality of mounting spaces configured to receive reagent packs therein. The mounting spaces can have any suitable configuration designed to receive reagent packs therein and can be slots, recesses or grooves or any other suitable mounting structure. There can be various types of reagent packs that can be loaded onto the mounting spaces and they can have one test-specific reagent therein (such as having the same reagent in all of their reservoirs) or any number of test-specific reagents or other liquids therein. Some reagent packs can contain auxiliary reagents, which are also considered test-specific reagents herein. As disclosed herein, the reagent packs to be placed on each analyzer 1041 to 104 are determined by an estimate of the testing demand (i.e., an estimate of the number of each test that will be performed over the planned time period). n The type, mix and quantity of the test-specific reagent 225 are determined.

[0052] The illustrated analyzer 1-1041 can contain or have associated with it consumable items 105, such as bulk reagents 226, calibrators 228 that can be specific to each test type, conditioners 230 and QC liquids 232 that can also be specific to each test type, diluents 234, wash solutions 236, pipette tips 238, and one or more reaction vessels 24 (e.g., cuvettes, cartridges, or well plates). Other consumable items 105 may include one or more allergens, reaction trigger materials, detection chips, buffers, and / or suspensions of magnetic particles (beads) or other coated beads used on some analyzers. These types of consumable items 105 are refilled as needed by the operator 114. Knowing which consumable item 105 needs to be refilled first and what the WAT is for a particular analyzer or the entire diagnostic laboratory system is very helpful for the laboratory technician 114 to ensure continuous operation and avoid work stoppages.

[0053] Refer again Figure 2 , the illustrated analyzer 1041 may include one or more maintenance items 107. Maintenance items 107 can include, for example, emptying solid waste 242 and / or emptying liquid waste 244. Solid waste 242 can include used pipette tips 238 and / or used reaction vessels 240. Liquid waste 244 can include used test liquids, such as wash solution 236 or other liquids used in testing.

[0054] Next to each of the consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107, sensing 1-11 is shown. As used herein, "sensing" means providing some form of measurement or counting for some or all of the consumable items 105 and / or maintenance items 107, thereby being able to determine the status of a particular consumable item 105 and / or maintenance item 107. For example, in one embodiment, the sensing can be provided by counting (such as, integer counting). For example, if a packaged test-specific reagent 225 can be used to perform this particular test twenty times, a count from 1 to 20 can be generated. Based on how many tests have been performed, a count can be generated to determine how many tests can still be performed without replacing the reagent pack or other packaging of the test-specific reagent 225. Therefore, based on the estimated test demand of the analyzer 1041 and the specific status of the particular consumable item, a WAT ​​estimate can be calculated for the test-specific reagent 225 based on the number of counts remaining, the time spent performing this particular test, and the order of all other tests, calibrations, and QC tests within the planned time period. Thus, a WAT ​​estimate for that particular test-specific reagent 225 can be determined and displayed, such as on a WAT ​​status screen (see Figure 4 ).

[0055] The analyzer controller 245 can also electronically communicate with the system controller 110, as indicated by communication channel 1471, which can be a wired or wireless communication channel. This communication can include a count of the remaining tests that can be performed on a particular test-specific reagent 225. Similarly, this sensing can be provided by a suitable sensing device, such as a depth or height sensor for measuring the amount of liquid remaining. For example, the depth can be determined based on a capacitance, laser, or other distance measurement sensor implemented as part of a pipette configured to aspirate and dispense the test-specific reagent 225, calibrant 228, conditioner 230, QC liquid 232, or other liquid. Based on a known starting height or depth, the amount of liquid remaining can be determined and transmitted via communication channel 1471. In the case of maintenance items 107 (such as solid waste 242 or liquid waste 244), weight sensing can be provided to determine the percentage of fullness, such as using a load cell. Other forms of sensing may be used, such as counting the number of tests that can be performed before the solid waste 242 or liquid waste 244 needs to be emptied. Alternatively, a beam break sensor may be used. Other Analyzers 1041 to 104 n Some or all of the analyzers 1041 to 1042 may also transmit the status of the various consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107 to the system controller 110. nThe status of some or all of the specific analyzer controllers 245 in the memory 113 can be stored and transmitted to the system controller 110 at any suitable sampling rate (such as at each sensing update, every few sensing updates, after each test, after a certain period of time, etc.). n A running count of the status of each of some or all of the consumption items 105 and maintenance items 107 is provided, which can be accessed by the WAT estimation module 115 for use in determining the estimated WAT 121 .

[0056] Now refer to Figure 3 The system controller 110 can include a WAT ​​item database 119 that is stored in the memory 113 and accessible by the WAT estimation module 115. The WAT item database 119 can include the WAT item database 119 associated with the analyzers 1041 to 104 n A specific time is associated with some or all of each consumable item 105 and maintenance item 107 in the WAT estimation method. For example, as shown for Analyzer 1, the WAT item input screen 346 includes a number of consumable items and maintenance items 107 that can have various inputs. For example, for Analyzer 1 1041, a laboratory technician 114, a programmer, or someone else setting up the WAT estimation method can enter various inputs via the operator interface 112, such as the number of tests 347 that a particular consumable item 105 will last for and / or a total WAT sum 348, which can be based on the time it takes to perform each specific test. If all tests performed using a particular consumable item 105 are of the same length, the WAT sum 348 can be easily determined. However, if the specific tests in the test menu of an analyzer (e.g., Analyzer 1 1041) have different lengths, the WAT sum 348 can be calculated based on the specific estimated testing needs over the planned time period and the sum of the times used to run the applicable number of tests. Thus, if the tests on the menu have different time lengths, the test requirements will adjust the value of the total WAT sum 348. Similar entries can be made for the maintenance items 107. As shown in the figure, the maintenance items are based on weight, but they can also be based on test counts. Analyzers 1041 to 104 n Some or all of can include a WAT ​​item input screen 346.

[0057] Therefore, the WAT estimation module 115 calculates and determines the analyzers 1041 to 104 n Estimated WAT of some or all of Figure 445. The WAT status and actions screen 450 can display the specific analyzer with the lowest WAT, which is the minimum lab system WAT. In the example shown, analyzer 2 1042 has a WAT ​​of 16.0 minutes and, therefore, is determining the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452 for the diagnostic lab system 100. The analyzer with the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452 can also be displayed at block 453. Each analyzer can be displayed on the WAT status and actions screen 450 so that the lab technician 114 can quickly gauge the action to take to extend the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452.

[0058] Figure 5 The WAT status and action screen 450 is illustrated, in which a user (such as a lab technician 114) has selected an additional action option (Add Diluent) from a list of available action options 454. This selection can be made from the list of additional action options 454, and one or more of the action options may be highlighted as the action option that results in the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452 for the identified analyzer 453. Another option may be selected instead, but may not increase the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452. As shown in the figure, selecting the "Add Diluent" action option from the fill list adds a certain amount of time to the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452. This may not add the total amount listed, as another consumable item 105 or maintenance item 107 may now become a limiting item. However, the listed "Add +120 minutes" will be added to the time for the action item, so that based on the testing needs of the planned time period, the "Add Diluent" action item will not have to be revisited for that amount of time.

[0059] As shown in the figure, when the lab technician 114 selects an action item from the list of action items 454, and when the action item selected from the list of action items 454 is completed, the new status of the consumable item 105 and / or maintenance item 107 can be automatically sensed by any suitable sensing mechanism or process. In this case, the WAT of the item is automatically confirmed.

[0060] Alternatively, the confirmation selection 455 can be initiated, such as through a pop-up window or other suitable interactive confirmation selection. When the technician 114 has completed selecting an action item from the list of action items 454, they can select "Confirm" from the confirmation selection 455. This then causes the WAT estimation module 115 to recalculate the minimum lab system estimated WAT 452 and set the count or other measure for the selected action item (e.g., "Add Diluent") to the maximum value, where it will now continue its countdown for each time diluent is used in a test of the analyzer. Additionally, upon making the "Confirm" selection, the WAT estimation module 115 can identify the analyzer at block 453 on the WAT Status and Actions screen 450, which now has the new minimum lab system estimated WAT 452. Additionally, the WAT estimation module 115 can now highlight or otherwise identify the action item from the list of action items 454 for the analyzer that needs to be addressed next and that is causing the new minimum lab system estimated WAT 452.

[0061] Figure 6 A group action screen 456 is illustrated, in which a user (such as a laboratory technician 114) can select additional group action options from a list of available additional group action options 457. This selection can be made from the list of additional group action options 457, and one or more group action options may be highlighted or otherwise indicated as group action options that result in the minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452 for the identified analyzer 453. The user can select the highlighted action option, and that option will result in extending the minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452 for the diagnostic laboratory system 100. In this case, the group action option "Add Bulk Reagent to All" is highlighted, indicating that it is the specific consumable item 105 that needs to be replenished first. As shown in the figure, selecting this group action option will add (+) 280 minutes to the bulk reagent for the consumable item 105. Thus, based on current needs, the time required to next address the consumable item is extended by the estimated amount. Again, a pop-up or other user-selectable confirmation option may be provided for the user (e.g., the laboratory technician 114) to confirm that the selected group action option has been selected for all analyzers 1041-1044. nOnce confirmed by the user by selecting Confirm via a mouse click or via a touch screen, this causes the WAT estimation module 115 to recalculate the minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452 and set the count or other measure for the selected group action option (e.g., "Add Bulk Reagent to All") to the maximum value, where it will now continue its countdown for each time bulk reagent is used in a test by the analyzer. Additionally, upon making the "Confirm" selection, the WAT estimation module 115 is able to identify the analyzer at block 453 on the WAT Status and Actions screen 450, which now has the new minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452. Additionally, the WAT estimation module 115 is now able to highlight or otherwise identify the new group action option from the list of additional group action options 457 for the analyzer, which is the action option that needs to be addressed next and is causing the new minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452.

[0062] Figure 8 A flow chart illustrating a method 800 for visualizing the status of a diagnostic laboratory system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. The method 800 may be executed by a suitable system controller (such as, for example, the system controller 110) or other suitable computer device. At processing block 802, the method 800 may include receiving computer-readable data at the system controller (e.g., the system controller 110), the computer-readable data including the status of analyzers (e.g., analyzers 1041 to 1044) included in the diagnostic laboratory system. n ) and test requirements of the types and quantities of tests to be performed on the sample by the analyzer. The test requirements can be received from the test requirements module 117. Each analyzer (eg, analyzers 1041 to 104 n ) includes consumable items (eg, consumable item 105) and maintenance items (eg, maintenance item 107).

[0063] At block 804, method 800 includes determining, via an exit time estimation module (e.g., exit time estimation module 115) executed on a system controller (e.g., system controller 110), an estimated exit time (e.g., estimated exit time 121) for the analyzer based on the test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items. The status of the consumable items (e.g., consumable item 105) and maintenance items (e.g., maintenance item 107) can be provided by sensing as described herein. Sensing can be provided by test counts or by physical measurements of liquid depth, height, volume, pressure, proximity, etc. The estimated exit time 121 can be from all analyzers 1041 to 104 n Minimum WAT.

[0064] At block 806, method 800 can include displaying analyzers 1041 to 104 n In one embodiment, this can mean an estimate of WAT 121. Figure 4 Each analyzer 1041 to 104 is shown in the same manner n In another embodiment, it can mean Figure 4 The WAT status and actions screen 450 displays the minimum laboratory system estimated WAT 452 as shown.

[0065] At block 808 , the method 800 can also include identifying one or more additional actions that may be selected to increase the estimated time to leave (WAT), such as Figure 5 As shown in .

[0066] Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of an analyzer 704 configured to perform tests on samples is shown. Depending on the type of analyzer, the analyzer 704 includes conventional testing components 120, such as a loading rack, one or more pipettes, one or more pipetting robots, incubation components (e.g., incubation loops), a reagent carousel or tray, aspiration and dispensing pumps and associated hardware, a cuvette loader, a heater, readers for chemiluminescence and fluorescence, etc. Specifically, the analyzer 704 includes a WAT ​​estimation module 115 that can generate and display an estimated walk-away time (WAT) 721 for the analyzer 704. Specifically, the analyzer 704 can include a controller 710 that includes a test requirement module 717 and a WAT ​​estimation module 715, which are software modules that can be stored in the memory 113 and executed on the processor 116. The test requirements module 717 is configured to receive computer-readable data regarding historical test requirements 760, indicating the types and quantities of tests performed on samples by the analyzer 704 (or another analyzer with the same test menu) during a previous time period. This computer-readable data regarding historical test requirements 760 can be stored when testing is performed during the previous time period. The time period used for data storage should be long enough to allow the user to select a scheduled time period of equal or lesser length than the previous time period. As before, the analyzer 704 includes consumable items 105 consumed when performing tests and maintenance items to be performed for continued operation of the analyzer 704. An exit time estimation module 715 can be executed on the controller 710 to provide an estimated exit time 721 for the analyzer 704 based on the estimated test requirements from the previously stored historical test requirements 760 data for the selected scheduled time period, as well as the status of the consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107.

[0067] As previously mentioned, some or all of the consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107 can include entries in the WAT item database 119 that exhaust all specific consumable items 105 and / or the amount of time spent performing maintenance items 107. The reading of each sensing (e.g., sensing 1-11 shown) can provide continuous updates to the status of specific consumable items 105 and / or maintenance items 107. When measuring how many tests can be performed for a specific consumable item 105 and / or maintenance item 107, the sensing can be provided as a test count. Alternatively, sensing can be provided by any suitable sensor (such as depth, height, weight, proximity sensor or other sensors that can provide sensing of the status of a specific consumable item 105 and / or maintenance item 107). Status can be provided according to any useful measurement (such as the percentage remaining, the percentage used, the fraction (e.g., 144 / 150) of the tests performed / the total tests possible before replenishment or other suitable status indicators).

[0068] The time-out estimation module 715 determines the estimated WAT 721 for the analyzer 704 by using the tests estimated to be performed over a selected planned time period, where the test composition and test time for each test are actually recorded in the historical test requirements 760 data. However, the selected planned time period may be smaller than the total amount of available data. For example, if the user selects a day as the applicable planned time period and a week's worth of data is available, the time-out estimation module 715 may use a similar day (e.g., Tuesday) to provide a demand estimate, or alternatively, average the number and composition of tests over a longer period of historical data. The planned time period can be any suitable time period (such as a shift, a day, a week, or other suitable time period) and can be selected by the user (e.g., a lab technician) or can be a fixed time period. Based on the estimated number of tests and test composition over the planned time period obtained from the test requirements module 717, as well as previous input from the WAT item database 719 and the current status of the consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107, the WAT can be determined for each of the consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107. Selecting the minimum value from the set of WATs then provides a minimum estimated WAT 721 , and identifying the consumable item 105 or maintenance item 107 having the minimum estimated WAT 721 .

[0069] Figure 9A flow chart illustrates a status visualization method 900 for an analyzer (e.g., analyzer 704) of the diagnostic laboratory system 100, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The status visualization method 800 may be executed by a suitable controller (such as, for example, the controller 710) or other suitable computer device. The status visualization method 800 may include receiving, at the analyzer controller, computer-readable data regarding historical test demand for types and quantities of tests performed on samples over a previous time period (e.g., by the analyzer 704 or another analyzer with the same test menu), wherein the analyzer includes consumable items and maintenance items (e.g., the consumable items 105 and the maintenance items 107).

[0070] In block 904, method 900 also includes determining, via a departure time estimation module (e.g., departure time estimation module 715) executed on the controller, an estimated departure time of the analyzer (e.g., estimated departure time 721) based on historical testing requirements over a planned time period and the status of consumable items and maintenance items (e.g., consumable items 105 and maintenance items 107).

[0071] At block 906, the method 900 can include displaying the estimated WAT 121 of the analyzer 704. At block 908, the method 900 can also include identifying one or more additional actions that can be selected to increase the estimated time to leave (WAT).

[0072] Historical test demand over a selected planning period can be provided from test demand module 717, which can provide test demand for the planning period based on historical test data 760 stored in memory 113. For example, if the planning period is a day, the test demand estimate can be based on a similar day stored in memory 113. If the planning period is a week, the test demand estimate can be based on a similar week stored in memory 113. Alternatively, test demand over the selected planning period can be provided from a trained model of test demand module 717 stored in memory 113 and executable on processor 116. The trained model can include historical data and also various complexities of a particular laboratory, such as test menus at a particular time of year, changes in operation or demand specific to a particular analyzer or group of analyzers over a particular time period, such as changes in demand from fall to winter due to the flu, changes in demand due to increased demand for certain test types over time, changes in test demand on a particular day, and the like.

[0073] The test demand module 717 can look back over a period of time and can use the average material consumption within a particular laboratory to predict today's needs over the planned time period. It is also possible to use a certain number of specific days, such as an average of many similar days, such as the average of the past six Tuesdays, because a laboratory system can have different test needs and different test compositions on different days of the week. Some trained models can take into account factors external to the laboratory system in estimating demand, such as flu season, allergy season, or specific outbreaks of specific diseases. The types of factors that can affect test demand can vary from year to year, so the demand input may need to come from a larger pool of real-time data, such as averaged across several diagnostic laboratory systems in a region or involving information about diseases from hospitalizations or CDC reports or other auxiliary information that can affect test demand.

[0074] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific method and system embodiments have been shown as examples in the drawings and are described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the specific methods and systems disclosed herein are not intended to limit the present disclosure, but rather are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for visualizing the status of a diagnostic laboratory system, comprising: receiving computer-readable data at a system controller, the computer-readable data comprising an inventory of analyzers included within the diagnostic laboratory system and test requirements for types of tests and quantities of tests to be performed on samples by the analyzers, wherein each of the analyzers includes consumable items and maintenance items; and determining, via an away time estimation module executed on the system controller, an estimated away time for the analyzer based on the test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items; identifying additional action options selectable to increase the estimated time of departure for one or more analyzers; as well as One or more additional action options are provided that are selectable to increase the estimated departure time of one or more analyzers.

2. The state visualization method according to claim 1, comprising: The estimated departure time for each of the analyzers is displayed.

3. The state visualization method according to claim 1, comprising: A minimum estimated exit time for the diagnostic laboratory system is determined.

4. The state visualization method according to claim 3, comprising: Displays the estimated time of departure from the diagnostic laboratory system.

5. The state visualization method according to claim 1, wherein the consumable items include one or more of the following: Special test reagents, Bulk reagents, Calibrator, Conditioner, QC liquid, diluent, lotion, Pipette tips, and reaction vessel.

6. The status visualization method according to claim 1, wherein the maintenance items include one or more items selected from the group consisting of: Emptying solid waste, and Empty the liquid waste. 7 . The status visualization method according to claim 1 , wherein the type of the test to be performed on the sample and the number of the tests are provided from a test requirement module.

8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: Upon confirming completion of the additional action option, a new estimated departure time is provided.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more additional action options include a group of items of the analyzer that are similar among consumption items or similar among maintenance items.

10. The method of claim 1, comprising: An additional estimate for replacement of the consumable item and an additional estimate for completion of the maintenance item are received in an outgoing item database.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein a test requirement module provides the test requirement to the exit time estimation module based on a history of types of tests and quantities of the tests performed over previous time periods.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the status of at least some of the consumable items and / or maintenance items is provided by sensing by the analyzer. The method of claim 12 , wherein the sensing is based on a test count provided from the analyzer.

14. A method of diagnosing a laboratory system, comprising: receiving computer-readable data at a system controller regarding a plurality of analyzers included within the diagnostic laboratory system and test requirements for types of tests and quantities of tests to be performed on samples by the plurality of analyzers, wherein each of the plurality of analyzers includes consumable items and maintenance items; determining, via an away time estimation module executed on the system controller, an estimated away time for the analyzer based on the test requirements and the status of the consumable items and maintenance items; Visualizing the status of the diagnostic laboratory system by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13; displaying an estimated time of departure from said diagnostic laboratory system; and One or more additional actions selectable to increase the estimated exit time of the diagnostic laboratory system are identified.

15. A diagnostic laboratory system comprising: a plurality of analyzers included within the diagnostic laboratory system and configured to perform tests on samples, wherein each analyzer of the plurality of analyzers includes consumable items consumed when performing the tests and maintenance items to be performed for continued operation of the analyzer; and a system controller coupled to the plurality of analyzers, the system controller comprising: a departure time estimation module executable on the system controller to provide estimated departure times for the plurality of analyzers based on test requirements and status of the consumable items and maintenance items; The system controller is configured to visualize the status of the diagnostic laboratory system by the method according to any one of claims 1-13.

Images