Installation of software on analyzer device

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer device configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, where the first mode is associated with a cold boot of the analyzer device and the second mode is associated with a hot boot of the analyzer device, and where the software is installed on the analyzer device. The analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables. The method comprises the steps of: obtaining a software installer image comprising a group of software components to be installed on the analyzer device; determining whether the analyzer device is to be activated in a first mode or a second mode; and when the analyzer device is to be started up in a first mode: installing the obtained software installer image comprising the group of software components on the analyzer device, starting up the analyzer device in the first mode, and when the analyzer device is to be started up in a second mode: obtaining data relating to a state of the analyzer device, the method includes obtaining data from a set of software components, storing the obtained data in a storage device, installing the obtained software installer image including the set of software components on an analyzer device, reapplying a state of the analyzer device based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and booting the analyzer device in a second mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the field of software installation. In particular, this disclosure relates to installing software on analyzer devices configured to analyze biological samples. Background Technology

[0002] Analyzer devices configured to analyze biological samples are used in the field of clinical analysis, where clinicians can obtain test results and / or measurement results from analyzers configured to analyze samples of biological samples, such as bodily fluids. These analyses may include in vitro measurements of individual samples, such as whole blood, serum, plasma, and urine, tissue samples, or other types of samples obtained from patients. Furthermore, analyses may include in vivo measurements of sample streams, such as transcutaneous measurements of, for example, the partial pressure of oxygen (pO2) and / or the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) and pulse oximetry measurements.

[0003] In modern clinical settings, analyzer devices at points of care (POCs) are widely used, and there is a trend toward shifting more and more tests and / or analyses from central laboratories to actual POCs.

[0004] In the field of software installation on analyzer devices configured to analyze biological samples, there are stringent requirements for regular, for example, every three months, software patching and / or updates to address functional issues, improve security, and / or add new features.

[0005] Due to the stringent requirements for software, automated repair and / or updates of software (e.g., patches to the operating system (OS) installed on the analyzer device) that are not verified (i.e., not verified by the analyzer device manufacturer and / or hospital IT department) are not preferred or do not meet the stringent requirements, as this could introduce serious security issues into analyzer devices configured to analyze biological samples. Because installing unverified software can introduce serious security problems, such as malfunctions, into the analyzer device, this could in turn cause the analyzer device to generate incorrect test results and / or measurement results, which in the worst case could endanger the patient's health.

[0006] Field Service Engineers (FSEs) are typically required to install validated software (i.e., validated by the analyzer device manufacturer and / or the hospital IT department) on each analyzer unit. This can be done, for example, by applying patches to already installed software. Patching involves removing and replacing code to ensure the integrity of the validated software is maintained and is not compromised at any stage.

[0007] However, the disadvantage of FSE installing software on each analyzer device is that it is a time-consuming and cumbersome process, and the analyzer device is unusable during the long software installation process, thus making the analyzer device unavailable to clinicians and patients during the installation period.

[0008] In addition to the time-consuming and tedious process of installing software in each analyzer device, the drawback is that once the installation is complete, the analyzer device with the new or updated software installed needs to be restarted, which is usually a time-consuming process. This depends on how long the analyzer device has been inactive during the software installation process, making the analyzer device unavailable to clinicians and patients for even longer periods.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for new methods for installing software on analyzer devices that address or at least mitigate some of the disadvantages discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0010] It should be emphasized that the terms "comprises" (which can be replaced by "includes"), when used in this specification, are used to specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or combinations thereof. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms.

[0011] Generally, when referring to an apparatus or device herein, it should be understood as a physical product. A physical product may include one or more components, such as a control circuit system in the form of one or more controllers, one or more processors, etc.

[0012] Some implementations are intended to address, mitigate, or eliminate at least some of the above-mentioned or other disadvantages.

[0013] According to the first aspect, this is achieved by a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer device configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device contains one or more sensor devices and consumables.

[0014] The method includes: obtaining a software installer image, which is a group of software components to be installed on the analyzer device; and determining whether the analyzer device should be started in a first mode or a second mode.

[0015] The method further includes: when the analyzer device is to be started in a first mode, installing the obtained software installer image, which includes a group of software components, on the analyzer device, and starting the analyzer device in the first mode.

[0016] The method further includes: when the analyzer device is to be started in a second mode, obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer device, storing the obtained data in a storage device, installing the obtained software installer image including a group of software components on the analyzer device, reapplying the state of the analyzer device based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and starting the analyzer device in the second mode.

[0017] In some implementations, the method further includes: determining a software installer image comprising a group of software components to be installed on the analyzer device.

[0018] In some implementations, a software installer image that includes a group of software components forms a system image.

[0019] In some implementations, the group of software components includes one or more of the following: operating system components, software patches, and analyzer device software components.

[0020] In some implementations, obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer device includes obtaining a snapshot of the state of the analyzer device.

[0021] In some implementations, storing the acquired data related to the state of the analyzer device includes storing the data on a virtual hard disk on the analyzer device.

[0022] In some implementations, installing the obtained software installer image, which includes a group of software components, involves installing the software installer image on a virtual hard disk on an analyzer device.

[0023] In some implementations, reapplying the state of the analyzer device based on data obtained and stored in a storage device includes reapplying the state based on data obtained from a virtual hard disk on the analyzer device.

[0024] In some implementations, the obtained data related to the status of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: analyzer device setup and customization, logs, calibration data, status data of one or more sensor devices and consumables, and quality control data.

[0025] In some implementations, the status of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: the temperature of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of measurements performed by the analyzer device that affect the remaining use of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the analyzer device's error log that affects the possible use of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of remaining measurements on the sensor devices; the amount of remaining consumables; and quality control data.

[0026] In some implementations, one or more sensor devices and consumables are configured to operate under a set of prerequisites.

[0027] In some implementations, the prerequisite set includes one or more of the following: setting temperature intervals for one or more sensor devices and consumables, and calibration and quality control performed on one or more sensor devices and consumables and analyzer devices.

[0028] In some implementations, the analyzer device is configured to be operatively connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device includes a writable memory.

[0029] In some implementations, the storage device includes a portable storage device with writable flash memory and an integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

[0030] In some implementations, the storage device includes writable memory in one or more servers within a cloud infrastructure.

[0031] The second aspect is a computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium having a computer program including program instructions on the non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program being loadable into a data processing unit and configured to cause the execution of any of the methods according to the embodiments disclosed herein when the computer program is run by the data processing unit.

[0032] In this respect, there are similar advantages and preferred features as in the first aspect discussed earlier.

[0033] As used herein, the term "non-transitory" is intended to describe computer-readable storage media (or "memory") that exclude the propagation of electromagnetic signals, but is not intended to otherwise limit the types of physical computer-readable storage devices covered by the phrase computer-readable media or memory. For example, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable media" or "tangible memory" are intended to cover types of storage devices that do not necessarily permanently store information, including, for example, random access memory (RAM). Program instructions and data stored on tangible computer-accessible storage media in non-transitory form can also be transmitted via transmission media or signals such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals, which can be transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links. Therefore, as used herein, the term "non-transitory" is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible medium, not signals), and not a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM).

[0034] The third aspect is an analyzer device configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device and the second mode is associated with a hot start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device contains one or more sensor devices and consumables.

[0035] The analyzer device includes a control circuit system configured to install software and to: obtain a software installer image comprising a group of software components to be installed on the analyzer device; and determine whether the analyzer device should be started in a first mode or a second mode.

[0036] The control circuitry is also configured to: install the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, onto the analyzer device when the analyzer device is to be started in the first mode, and to start the analyzer device in the first mode.

[0037] The control circuit system is also configured to: when the analyzer device is to be started in the second mode, acquire data related to the state of the analyzer device, store the acquired data in a storage device, install the acquired software installer image including the group of software components on the analyzer device, reapply the state of the analyzer device based on the acquired data stored in the storage device, and start the analyzer device in the second mode.

[0038] In some implementations, the control circuitry is also configured to store the acquired data related to the state of the analyzer device in a virtual hard disk on the analyzer device.

[0039] In some implementations, the control circuitry is also configured to install the obtained software installer image, which includes a group of software components, onto a virtual hard disk on the analyzer device.

[0040] In some implementations, the control circuitry is also configured to reapply the state of the analyzer device based on data obtained from a virtual hard disk stored on the analyzer device.

[0041] In some implementations, the control circuitry is also configured to be operatively connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device includes a writable memory.

[0042] In some implementations, the storage device includes a portable storage device with writable flash memory and an integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

[0043] In some implementations, the storage device includes writable memory in one or more servers within a cloud infrastructure.

[0044] In some implementations, the control circuitry is also configured to communicate with one or more servers in the cloud infrastructure via a packet-switched network.

[0045] In this respect, there are similar advantages and preferred features as in the aspects previously discussed, and vice versa.

[0046] One advantage of some implementations is that they provide a new method for installing software on the analyzer device.

[0047] Another advantage of some implementations is that image installation can be used to install software, including OS software, software patches, and analyzer device software, on one or more analyzer devices, and wherein a new image can be installed on one or more analyzer devices in much less time than in the conventional method of installing software on analyzer devices, resulting in a significant reduction in software installation time.

[0048] Another advantage of some implementations is that image installation can also be used to upgrade software, including OS software, software patches, and analyzer device software, on one or more analyzer device software, wherein a new image can be installed on the analyzer device in much less time than in the conventional way of upgrading software on the analyzer device, resulting in a significant reduction in software upgrade time.

[0049] Another advantage of some implementations is that the significantly reduced software installation and upgrade time, which in turn reduces the downtime of the analyzer device, makes the analyzer device available to clinicians and patients for a longer period of time.

[0050] Another advantage of some implementations is that image installation requires only one installation step, which is more reliable than several installation steps, requires less software installation and upgrade time, allows for faster patching, and thus reduces the time when the analyzer device may be vulnerable to malicious attacks, and ensures the network security of the analyzer device.

[0051] Another advantage of some implementations is that performing more than one complete installation on the analyzer device on a separate virtual hard disk during image installation allows the analyzer device to operate when applications are updated, while also providing backups in case of installation failure or the need to roll back the software.

[0052] These and other features and advantages of the embodiments described herein will be further explained below with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Other objects, features, and advantages of some embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0054] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer device according to some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer device according to some embodiments;

[0056] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer device according to some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example analyzer device configured for installing software according to some embodiments; and

[0058] Figure 5 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example system of an analyzer device configured for installing software, according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Those skilled in the art will understand that the steps, services, and functions described herein can be implemented using separate hardware circuit systems, software that functions in conjunction with a programmable microprocessor or a general-purpose computer, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). It should also be understood that, when an implementation is described according to a method, it can also be embodied in one or more processors and one or more memories coupled to one or more processors, wherein one or more memories store one or more programs that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the steps, services, and functions disclosed herein.

[0060] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described and illustrated more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the solutions disclosed herein can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0061] As mentioned above, the disadvantage of FSE installing software on each analyzer device is that it is a time-consuming and cumbersome process, and the analyzer device is unusable during the long software installation process, thus making the analyzer device unavailable to clinicians and patients during the installation period.

[0062] In addition, as mentioned above, besides the time-consuming and tedious process of installing software on each analyzer device, the disadvantage is that once the installation is complete, the analyzer device with the new or updated software installed needs to be restarted, which is usually a time-consuming process. This depends on how long the analyzer device has been inactive during the software installation process, making the analyzer device unavailable to clinicians and patients for even longer periods.

[0063] Furthermore, patching (i.e., deleting and replacing code) in analyzer devices takes a lot of time, especially for analyzer devices with outdated computer systems.

[0064] Typically, when the analyzer device is started, it starts in either a first mode associated with a cold start of the analyzer device or a second mode associated with a hot start of the analyzer device.

[0065] Hot start of the analyzer device as described herein includes: the analyzer device and one or more sensor devices and consumables housed in the analyzer device and configured to operate under a set of prerequisites being in a state that satisfies the set of prerequisites for hot start.

[0066] For example, a hot start can be initiated if the analyzer device is shut down for only a short period of time, such that the physical properties of the sensor devices and consumables housed in the analyzer device remain substantially unchanged, for example, in terms of temperature.

[0067] Cold start of an analyzer device as described herein includes a state in which the analyzer device, and one or more sensor devices and consumables housed within the analyzer device and configured to operate under a set of prerequisites, are in a state where the set of prerequisites is not met, and wherein certain additional steps are required to prepare the analyzer device and one or more sensor devices and consumables for startup. Cold start is typically a longer startup process than warm start of an analyzer device because additional preparation steps are required to meet the set of prerequisites.

[0068] For example, a cold start can be initiated if the analyzer device has been shut down for an extended period of time, causing the physical properties of the sensors and consumables housed within the analyzer device to have changed substantially, for example, in terms of temperature.

[0069] For example, additional preparation steps that need to be taken during the cold start of the analyzer device may include: increasing the temperature of one or more sensor devices and consumables, or performing calibration and / or quality control (QC) checks.

[0070] Generally, it can be understood that the set of prerequisites described herein includes one or more of the following: setting temperature intervals for one or more sensor devices and consumables, calibration and quality control performed on one or more sensor devices and consumables and analyzer devices, etc.

[0071] Generally, when referred to herein as an analyzer device, it can be understood as a device or system configured to perform chemical, optical, physical, or similar analysis on a sample (e.g., a single sample or a stream of samples). Such analyzer devices include analyzer devices for performing various forms of clinical testing and / or analysis and / or monitoring, such as measuring a patient's physiological parameters.

[0072] For example, the analyzer device may include a blood gas analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, or a transcutaneous monitoring system.

[0073] Below, implementation methods are presented, which describe a novel approach for installing software on an analyzer device.

[0074] Generally, when referring to the installation of software on an analyzer device herein, it can be understood to include the complete or partial installation of software, or the complete or partial upgrade of any software already installed on the analyzer device. According to some implementations, some examples of software that can be installed or upgraded on an analyzer device include, but are not limited to, analyzer device software, OS software, and patches.

[0075] Generally, when referring to software components in this article, they can be understood to include one or more of the following: analyzer device software, OS software, and patches.

[0076] Generally, when image installation is mentioned in this document, it can be understood as the installation of executable files and image files. Executable files and image files can include file types such as .exe, .dll, .ffu, .wim, and others. Image installation can also be understood as the deployment and installation of executable files and image files on an analyzer device.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, when image installation is mentioned herein, it can be understood as including the complete deployment and installation of more than one executable file and image file on the analyzer device. The file types of the executable file and image file can include .vhd, .vhdx, and other types. Image installation can also be understood as the deployment and installation of more than one complete deployment and installation of executable files and image files on the same analyzer device.

[0078] To facilitate the mounting of more than one image on the analyzer device, a virtual hard disk can be used. Virtual hard disks can include file types such as .vhd, .vhdx, and others.

[0079] For example, an image installation may include two complete deployments and installations (e.g., image installation A and image installation B) on separate virtual hard disks (e.g., virtual hard disk 1 and virtual hard disk 2) on the same analyzer device. This allows changes to one of the installations (e.g., image installation A on virtual hard disk 1) while the other installation (e.g., image installation B on virtual hard disk 2) is in use on the analyzer device.

[0080] For example, one virtual hard disk (e.g., virtual hard disk 2) can be used as the system disk by the analyzer device, and another virtual hard disk (e.g., virtual hard disk 1) can be used for image installation. Once the image installation is complete, the analyzer device can reboot from the other virtual hard disk and begin using it as the new system disk. The previous system disk can then be used as a backup, for example, in a situation where it is necessary to roll back the software to a previous version for some reason.

[0081] The advantage of performing more than one complete installation on the analyzer device on a separate virtual hard disk during image installation is that it allows the analyzer device to operate while applying updates, and at the same time provides backups in case of installation failure or the need to roll back the software.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, a software installer image (sometimes referred to as an operating system image, disk image, or system image) can be considered a copy of a disk partition that can be applied to the device's hard drive.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, a software installer image (sometimes referred to as an operating system image, disk image, or system image) can be considered a copy of a disk partition that can be applied to the device's virtual hard disk.

[0084] Generally, when virtual hard disks are mentioned in this article, they can be understood as container files that function similarly to physical hard disk drives. Like physical hard disk drives, virtual hard disk files can contain file systems, operating systems, applications, and data. Virtual hard disk files are typically attached to virtual machines (VMs) and used as the VM's system or data drive. Virtual hard disk files can be mounted to the OS in the same way as any other type of removable media that can be mounted and accessed by the OS.

[0085] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the method steps of an example computer implementation of method S100 according to some embodiments. Method S100 is used to install software on an analyzer device configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device, and the second mode is associated with a warm start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables. This can be, for example, in... Figure 4 In one or more analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c and / or in Figure 5 Method S100 is executed in system 500 of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0086] In some implementations, one or more sensor devices and consumables are configured to operate under a set of prerequisites.

[0087] In some implementations, the prerequisite set includes one or more of the following: setting temperature intervals for one or more sensor devices and consumables, and calibration and quality control performed on one or more sensor devices and consumables and analyzer devices.

[0088] Method S100 includes the following steps.

[0089] Optionally, in some implementations, in step S101, a software installer image comprising a group of software components is determined to be installed on the analyzer device.

[0090] For example, a software installer image may be determined (e.g., generated and verified) by the analyzer device manufacturer and provided to production and / or FSE for installation on the analyzer device for new software installations and / or software upgrades.

[0091] In some implementations, a software installer image that includes a group of software components forms a system image.

[0092] For example, a system image may include a compiled executable file.

[0093] In some implementations, the group of software components includes one or more of the following: operating system components, software patches, and analyzer device software components.

[0094] For example, as mentioned above, the software installer image can be generated and verified by the analyzer device manufacturer, allowing patches to be applied early in the analyzer device's production life. This enables all software components, including OS components, software patches (e.g., patch components), and analyzer device software components (e.g., embedded software components), to be installed together with the image installation in one go, without a lengthy and cumbersome installation process that would significantly delay production. By installing all software components early in the production phase, the need for early upgrades is avoided, as the latest software installation is already in production. Furthermore, the need to add higher-level software components during installation at the POC is avoided, as the single image installation also includes the highest-level software components, thus reducing the time required for the FSE to set up the analyzer device at the POC.

[0095] For subsequent upgrades (e.g., software releases, OS releases, or patch releases), images of the upgraded software components, as well as the already installed software components, can be captured and generated by the analyzer device manufacturer and provided to production and / or FSE.

[0096] Typically, software installation or upgrade processes involve multiple steps, which, in addition to being time-consuming, introduces risks such as installation failures at multiple steps. Since image installation is only a single installation (i.e., one step), it is inherently faster than conventional methods. Therefore, it reduces the risk of installation failures at multiple steps, reduces the time spent installing software in production, reduces the time FSE needs to spend installing / upgrading analyzer devices at the POC, and allows for faster patching to maintain or increase the network security of analyzer devices.

[0097] In step S102, a software installer image, comprising a group of software components, is obtained to be installed on the analyzer device.

[0098] For example, the software installer image can be provided by the manufacturer of the analyzer device.

[0099] For example, it can be found in... Figure 4 and Figure 5 Software installer images are provided on storage devices 401, 402, 403, and 503.

[0100] In step S103, it is determined whether the analyzer device should be started in the first mode or the second mode.

[0101] In some implementations, the FSE selects the mode to start the analyzer device.

[0102] In some implementations, the production personnel select the mode to activate the analyzer device.

[0103] In some implementations, the analyzer device determines which mode to start the analyzer device in.

[0104] For example, the analyzer device can be programmed to start in a specific mode under specific conditions.

[0105] In some implementations, a remote server determines which mode to start the analyzer device in.

[0106] For example, the analyzer device can receive signals or data indicating the mode to be activated by the analyzer device.

[0107] When the analyzer device is to be started in a first mode associated with a cold start of the analyzer device, the method includes the following steps:

[0108] In step S106, the obtained software installer image, which includes a group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device in one step.

[0109] In step S108a, the analyzer device is started in a first mode associated with cold start.

[0110] When the analyzer device is to be started in a second mode associated with a hot start of the analyzer device, the method includes the following steps:

[0111] In step S104, data related to the state of the analyzer device is obtained.

[0112] In some implementations, obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer device includes obtaining a snapshot of the state of the analyzer device.

[0113] In some implementations, the obtained data related to the status of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: analyzer device setup and customization, logs, calibration data, status data of one or more sensor devices and consumables, and quality control data.

[0114] In some implementations, the status of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: the temperature of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of measurements performed by the analyzer device that affect the remaining use of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the analyzer device's error log that affects the possible use of one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of remaining measurements on the sensor devices; the amount of remaining consumables; and quality control data.

[0115] In step S105, the obtained data is stored in a storage device.

[0116] In some implementations, the analyzer device is configured to be operatively connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device includes a writable memory.

[0117] In some implementations, the storage device includes a portable storage device with writable flash memory and an integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

[0118] In some implementations, the storage device includes writable memory and communication interfaces in one or more servers within a local (on-premise) data center.

[0119] In some implementations, the storage device includes writable memory and a communication interface in one or more servers within a cloud infrastructure.

[0120] In step S106, the obtained software installer image, which includes a group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device in one step.

[0121] In step S107, the state of the analyzer device is reapplied based on the data obtained and stored in the storage device.

[0122] In step S108b, the analyzer device is started in a second mode associated with hot start.

[0123] In step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer device is started, all software components are installed in a single step via image installation. Since the new image containing the software components can be installed in just one step, the installation time is significantly reduced compared to the conventional method of first installing the OS, then applying patches to the OS, and finally installing the analyzer device software.

[0124] Alternatively or additionally, in step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer device is started, a selected number of software components have been upgraded in one step via image installation. Since the new image to be installed, including the updated software components, can be installed in just one step, the upgrade time is significantly reduced compared to the conventional method of deleting and replacing code (i.e., patching).

[0125] Therefore, in addition to installing new software, image installation can also be used as a method to upgrade software on an analyzer device, in which the OS can be upgraded, new patches can be added, or the analyzer device software can be modified as needed.

[0126] Therefore, the significantly reduced installation and upgrade times also reduce downtime of the analyzer device, making it available to clinicians and patients for a longer period of time.

[0127] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the method steps of an example computer implementation of method S200 according to some embodiments. Method S200 is used to install software on an analyzer device, wherein the device is determined to operate in a first mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables. This can be, for example, in... Figure 4 In one or more analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c and / or in Figure 5 Method S200 is executed in system 500 of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0128] For example, one or more sensor devices may include sensor devices or sensor boxes configured to perform chemical, optical, physical or similar analyses on a sample.

[0129] For example, in the first mode, a cold start of the analyzer device may include an analyzer device that has not performed analysis on a sample and / or has been inactive for an extended period. For instance, the analyzer device may have been inactive while awaiting a software upgrade to meet stringent requirements. This means that one or more sensor devices and consumables housed within the analyzer device may not possess acceptable physical properties, such as temperature intervals, meaning that the prerequisites for the operation of the sensor devices and consumables under these conditions have not been met, or the analyzer device has not undergone normal QC checks to ensure accurate and reliable analysis of the sample. Therefore, a cold start may take longer than other starts because the analyzer device needs to undergo preparation steps to ensure that the sensor devices and consumables meet the prerequisites and that the necessary QC checks are performed.

[0130] In step S106, the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device (see reference). Figure 1 Step S106).

[0131] In step S106a, in some embodiments, a program on how to operate the wet section is installed based on data stored in a storage device operatively connected to the analyzer device.

[0132] For example, a program on how to operate the wet section can include a series of coded software instructions on how to control the operation of the entire wet section or a specific part of it.

[0133] In some embodiments, the wet section may be housed in the lower half of the analyzer device and may include one or more consumables that can be controlled by one or more pumps.

[0134] For example, a program for operating the wet section may include a series of coded software instructions on how to control one or more pumps used for one or more consumables in the wet section.

[0135] For example, the program on how to run the wet section can be stored in, for example... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The software installer images provided in the storage devices 401, 402, 403, and 503 shown.

[0136] In step S108a, the analyzer device is started in the first mode (see reference). Figure 1 Step S108a).

[0137] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the method steps of an example computer-implemented method S300 according to some embodiments. Method S300 is used to install software on an analyzer device, wherein the device is determined to operate in a second mode, wherein the second mode is associated with a hot start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables. This can be, for example, in... Figure 4 In one or more analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c and / or in Figure 5 Method S300 is executed in system 500 of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0138] In step S104, data related to the state of the analyzer device is obtained (see reference). Figure 1 (S104).

[0139] For example, data related to one or more consumables of the analyzer device can be obtained, such as the lifespan and usage of one or more consumables.

[0140] For example, obtaining data and procedures related to the operation of the wet section of the analyzer device, such as procedures on how to control one or more pumps in the wet section.

[0141] For example, obtaining data at the system level related to the analyzer device, such as quality control data.

[0142] In step S105, the obtained data is stored in a storage device (see reference). Figure 1 (S105).

[0143] In step S106, the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device (see reference). Figure 1 (S106).

[0144] In step S107, the state of the analyzer device (referencing) is reapplied based on the data obtained and stored in the storage device. Figure 1 (S107).

[0145] For example, the status of an analyzer can include the current lifespan and / or number of uses of one or more consumables in the analyzer device.

[0146] For example, one or more consumables may include sensor boxes or sensor devices, QC fluids, rinsing fluids or idling fluids, which are components having a predetermined lifespan or predetermined number of uses before they are considered used up or aged and need to be replaced.

[0147] For example, the status of the analyzer device can include the current lifespan of the QC liquid, flushing liquid, and idling liquid.

[0148] For example, the status of the analyzer device can include the current number of times the sensor box or sensor device has been used.

[0149] In step S106a, in some embodiments, a program on how to operate the wet section is installed based on data stored in a storage device operatively connected to the analyzer device.

[0150] For example, a program on how to operate the wet section can include a series of coded software instructions on how to control the operation of the entire wet section or a specific part of it.

[0151] In some embodiments, the wet section may be housed in the lower half of the analyzer device and may include one or more consumables that can be controlled by one or more pumps.

[0152] For example, a program for operating the wet section may include a series of coded software instructions on how to control one or more pumps used for one or more consumables in the wet section.

[0153] For example, the program on how to run the wet section can be stored in, for example... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The software installer images provided in the storage devices 401, 402, 403, and 503 shown.

[0154] In step S108b, the analyzer device is started in the second mode (see reference). Figure 1 Step S108b).

[0155] In step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer device is started, all software components are installed in a single step via image installation. Since the new image containing the software components can be installed in just one step, the installation time is significantly reduced compared to the conventional method of first installing the OS, then applying patches to the OS, and finally installing the analyzer device software.

[0156] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example analyzer device configured for installing software according to some embodiments. Analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c are configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device and the second mode is associated with a warm start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device includes one or more sensor devices and consumables, and the analyzer device includes a control circuitry system CTRL 405 configured for installing software. Therefore, analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c can, for example, be configured to perform... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 One or more of the method steps and / or one or more of any other steps described herein.

[0157] In some embodiments, the control circuitry system CTRL 405 is also configured to be operatively connected to storage devices 401, 402, 403, wherein the storage devices include writable memory.

[0158] For example, the control circuitry system CTRL 405 can be configured to be operatively connected to a portable storage device 401 having writable flash memory and an integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface (also known as a USB stick). The USB stick 401 may include a software installer image to be installed on the analyzer device. The USB stick 401 may also include data related to the state of the analyzer device. The USB stick 401 may also include programs for the operation of the wet section of the analyzer device.

[0159] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to obtain data related to the state of the analyzer device 400a for reapplying the state of the analyzer device 400a.

[0160] The control circuit system CTRL 405 is also configured to obtain a software installer image, which includes a group of software components, to be installed on the analyzer device 400a.

[0161] For example, the control circuit system CTRL 405 can be configured to obtain a software installer image from a writable memory on a USB stick 401, or from one or more servers in a local data center 402 (e.g., in a hospital local data center), or from a portable computer 403 that can be connected to analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c, for example, via a wired or plug-in connection.

[0162] Additional or alternative local communications with the local data center can also be wireless types with protocols such as WiFi, LoRa, Zigbee, Bluetooth, or similar medium / short-range technologies.

[0163] The control circuit system CTRL 405 is also configured to determine whether the analyzer device should be started in the first mode or the second mode.

[0164] For example, the FSE can determine whether analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c should be started in either mode by selecting a mode on the analyzer device and thereby selecting the control circuit system CTRL405 to determine whether the analyzer device should be started in a first mode or a second mode.

[0165] Alternatively or additionally, analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c can determine whether the analyzer device is started in any mode by detecting data indicating the mode to be selected on the connected writable memories 401, 402, 403.

[0166] When it is determined that analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c are started in a first mode, the control circuit system CTRL 405 is configured to install the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, onto the analyzer device in one step, and to start the analyzer device in a first mode associated with a cold start of the analyzer device.

[0167] When it is determined that analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c are started in the second mode, the control circuit system CTRL 405 is configured to acquire data related to the state of analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c, store the acquired data in storage devices 401, 402, and 403, install the acquired software installer image including the group of software components on analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c, reapply the state of the analyzer devices based on the acquired data stored in storage devices 401, 402, and 403, and start analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c in the second mode associated with the warm start of the analyzer devices.

[0168] Therefore, in such Figure 4 In the POC setup shown, both hot and cold boots of analyzer devices 400a, 400b, and 400c can be performed in one step to install an image. In the POC setup, multiple alternative storage devices 401, 402, and 403 are available.

[0169] Figure 5 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example analyzer device configured for installing software according to some embodiments. Analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c are configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device and the second mode is associated with a warm start of the analyzer device, and wherein the analyzer device includes one or more sensor devices and consumables, and the analyzer device includes a control circuitry system CTRL 505 configured for installing software. Therefore, analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c can, for example, be configured to perform... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 One or more of the method steps and / or one or more of any other steps described herein.

[0170] In some implementations, the control circuitry system CTRL 505 is also configured to be operatively connected to a storage device 503, wherein the storage device includes writable memory in one or more servers of the cloud infrastructure 501.

[0171] For example, the control circuitry system CTRL 505 can be configured to be operatively connected to one or more servers 503 having writable memory in a cloud infrastructure 501 (also referred to as a cloud). One or more servers 503 may include software installer images to be installed on one or more of the analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0172] Alternatively or additionally, one or more servers 503 may also include data relating to the state of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c, which is available for reapplying the state to analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0173] Alternatively or additionally, one or more servers 503 may also include data and programs related to the operation of the wet section of the analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c, which are available for use in the analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0174] The control circuit system CTRL 505 is also configured to obtain from cloud 501 a software installer image, which includes a group of software components, to be installed on analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0175] For example, the control circuit system CTRL 505 can be configured to obtain a software installer image from one or more servers 503 in the cloud 501 via a wireless connection through an interface 504 of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c and cloud 501.

[0176] The control circuit system CTRL 505 is also configured to determine whether the analyzer device should be started in the first mode or the second mode.

[0177] For example, production or FSE can remotely select the mode on analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c via interface 504 to determine whether analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c should be started in any mode.

[0178] Alternatively or additionally, analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c may determine whether to start in any mode by receiving data from one or more servers 503 in the cloud 501 via a wireless connection, indicating the mode to be selected through interface 504.

[0179] Alternatively or additionally, the determination of whether analyzer devices 500a, 500b, 500c should be started in any mode may be based on a schedule for installing and / or upgrading software available in one or more servers 503 and selectable by a control circuitry system CTRL 502, which is configured to select an installation / upgrade schedule that ensures the analyzer devices meet the stringent requirements of software upgrades.

[0180] When it is determined that analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c are started in a first mode, the control circuit system CTRL 505 is configured to install the obtained software installer image, which includes the software components, on the analyzer devices, and to start the analyzer devices in the first mode associated with a cold start of the analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0181] When it is determined that analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c are started in the second mode, the control circuit system CTRL 505 is configured to acquire data related to the state of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c, store the acquired data in a storage device (e.g., one or more servers 503 in cloud 501), install the acquired software installer image including the group of software components on analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c, reapply the state of the analyzer devices based on the acquired data stored in the storage device in cloud 501, and start analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c in the second mode associated with a hot start of analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0182] Therefore, in such Figure 5 In the system setup shown, both hot and cold boots of the analyzer devices 500a, 500b, and 500c, which are connected to the cloud for remote installation and / or upgrade of software, enable image installation in a single step.

[0183] However, other embodiments besides those described above are also possible and within the scope of the claims. Within the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein, method steps different from those described above for performing the method by hardware or software may be provided. Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided storing one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of a processing system, said one or more programs including instructions for performing the method according to any of the embodiments described above. Alternatively, according to another exemplary embodiment, a cloud computing system may be configured to perform any of the methods presented herein. The cloud computing system may include distributed cloud computing resources that collectively perform the methods presented herein under the control of one or more computer program products.

[0184] Generally, computer-accessible media can include any tangible or non-transitory storage medium or memory medium, such as electronic, magnetic, or optical media, like a disk or CD / DVD-ROM coupled to a computer system via a bus. As used herein, the terms “tangible” and “non-transitory” are intended to describe computer-readable storage media (or “memory”) excluding those that propagate electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to otherwise limit the types of physical computer-readable storage devices covered by the phrases “computer-readable medium” or “memory.” For example, the terms “non-transitory computer-readable medium” or “tangible memory” are intended to cover types of storage devices that do not necessarily permanently store information, including, for example, random access memory (RAM). Program instructions and data stored on tangible computer-accessible storage media in non-transitory form can also be transmitted via transmission media or signals such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals, which can be transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links.

[0185] The control circuitry systems CTRL 405, 505 (associated with analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c) may be or include any number of hardware components for performing data or signal processing or for executing code stored in memories 401, 402, 403, 503. Analyzer devices 400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c have associated memory for storing data and / or computer code to perform or facilitate the various methods described herein. The associated memory may include volatile or non-volatile memory. The associated memory may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities described herein. According to exemplary embodiments, any distributed memory device 503 or local memory devices 401, 402, 403 may be used with the analyzer devices and methods of this specification.

[0186] The communication interface 504 can be additionally arranged to communicate with other functional components, and therefore can also be regarded as a control interface.

[0187] Therefore, it should be understood that parts of the described solution can be implemented on a remote server, or on multiple remote servers, such as multiple servers communicating with each other, i.e., a so-called cloud solution. Different features and steps of this embodiment can be combined with other combinations different from those described.

[0188] Generally, all terms used herein should be interpreted according to their common meaning in the relevant technical field, unless a different meaning is clearly given and / or implied from the context in which they are used.

[0189] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed, and the word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of multiple such elements. It should also be noted that no reference numerals limit the scope of the claims, embodiments can be implemented at least in part by means of both hardware and software, and several "control circuits," "devices," or "units" can be represented by the same hardware.

[0190] Although the accompanying drawings may show a specific order of method steps, the order of steps may differ from the order described. Additionally, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Such variations will depend on the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choices. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments. Similarly, software implementations may utilize standard programming techniques, as well as rule-based logic and other logic, to accomplish various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps. The embodiments mentioned and described above are given by way of example only and should not limit the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the details of the described embodiments are merely illustrative examples, and all variations falling within the scope of the claims are intended to be included therein.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method (S100) for installing software on an analyzer device configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein, The first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device, and the second mode is associated with a warm start of the analyzer device, wherein the analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables, and the method includes the following steps: Obtain (S102) a software installer image, which includes a group of software components, to be installed on the analyzer device; Determine (S103) whether the analyzer device is to be started in the first mode or the second mode; and When the analyzer device is to be started in the first mode: The software installer image, which includes the group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device (S106). The analyzer device is started in the first mode (S108a). When the analyzer device is to be started in the second mode: Obtain data related to the state of the analyzer device (S104). The obtained data is stored in the storage device (S105). The software installer image, which includes the group of software components, is installed on the analyzer device (S106). Based on the data obtained and stored in the storage device, the state of the analyzer device is reapplied (S107), and The analyzer device is started in the second mode (S108b).

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the following steps: Determine (S101) the software installer image, which includes the group of software components, to be installed on the analyzer device.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The software installer image, which includes the group of software components, forms a system image.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The group of software components includes one or more of the following: operating system components, software patches, and analyzer device software components.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, Obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer device includes obtaining a snapshot of the state of the analyzer device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The data obtained relating to the status of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: analyzer device setup and customization, logs, calibration data, status data of the one or more sensor devices and consumables, and quality control data.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The state of the analyzer device includes one or more of the following: the temperature of the one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of measurements performed by the analyzer device that affect the remaining use of the one or more sensor devices and consumables; Error logs of the analyzer device that may affect the use of the one or more sensor devices and consumables; the number of remaining measurements on the sensor devices; the amount of remaining consumables; and quality control data.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The one or more sensor devices and consumables are configured to operate under a set of prerequisites.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The prerequisite set includes one or more of the following: setting temperature intervals for the one or more sensor devices and consumables, and calibration and quality control performed on the one or more sensor devices and consumables and the analyzer device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The analyzer device is configured to be operatively connected to a storage device (401, 402, 403, 503), wherein the storage device includes a writable memory.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The storage device includes a portable storage device with writable flash memory and an integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface (401).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The storage device includes writable memory in one or more servers (503) within a cloud infrastructure (501).

13. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having a computer program including program instructions on the non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program being loadable into a data processing unit and configured to, when the computer program is run by the data processing unit, cause the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12 to be performed.

14. An analyzer device (400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c) configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode, wherein, The first mode is associated with a cold start of the analyzer device, and the second mode is associated with a warm start of the analyzer device, wherein the analyzer device houses one or more sensor devices and consumables, and the analyzer device includes a control circuitry (405, 505) configured to install software and cause: Obtain a software installer image, comprising a group of software components, to be installed on the analyzer device; Determine whether the analyzer device should be started in the first mode or the second mode; and When the analyzer device is to be started in the first mode: Install the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, onto the analyzer device. The analyzer device is started in the first mode. When the analyzer device is to be started in the second mode: Obtain data related to the state of the analyzer device. The obtained data is stored in storage devices (401, 402, 403, 503). Install the obtained software installer image, which includes the group of software components, onto the analyzer device. The state of the analyzer device is reapplied based on the data obtained and stored in the storage device, and The analyzer device is started in the second mode.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The control circuitry (405, 505) is also configured to be operatively connected to the storage device (401, 402, 403, 503), wherein the storage device includes a writable memory.

Images