Installation of software on analyzer apparatuses

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer apparatus configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus, determining whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode, and when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode: installing the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, starting-up the analyzer apparatus in the first mode, and when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the second mode: obtaining data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus, storing the obtained data in a storage device, installing the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, re-applying the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and starting-up the analyzer apparatus in the second mode.

Description

[0001] INSTALLATION OF SOFTWARE ON ANALYZER APPARATUSES

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of software installations. In particular, the present disclosure relates to installation of software on analyzer apparatuses configured to analyze biological samples.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Analyzer apparatuses configured to analyze biological samples are used in the field of clinical analysis where clinical personnel may acquire test results and / or measurement results from analyzer apparatuses configured to analyze biological samples, such as samples of bodily fluids. These analyses may include in vitro measurements on individual samples of, e.g., whole blood, serum, plasma and urine, tissue samples or other types of samples obtained from a patient. Further, the analyses may include in vivo measurements on sample streams such as transcutaneous measurements of, e.g., the partial pressures of oxygen (pO2) and / or carbon dioxide (pCO2) and pulse oximetry measurements.

[0006] In modern clinical environments, analyzer apparatuses at point of care (POC) are widely used and there is a trend of moving more and more tests and / or analysis from central laboratory to actual POC.

[0007] Within the field of software installations on analyzer apparatuses configured to analyze biological samples, there are strict requirements on repairing and / or updating software to resolve functionality issues, improve security and / or add new features, so called patching of software, regularly, e.g., every third month.

[0008] Due to the strict requirements for software, automatic repairing and / or updating of software, e.g., a patch for an Operating System (OS) installed on the analyzer apparatus, that has not been validated (i.e., not validated by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatuses and / or the hospital IT department), is not a preferred approach or compliant with the strict requirements since this may introduce severe security issues on analyzer apparatuses configured to analyze biological samples. As installation of non-validated software may introduce severe security issues, e.g., malfunctions, on the analyzer apparatuses, which may in turn cause the analyzer apparatuses to generate incorrect test results and / or measurement results which in worst case could put the patient's health at risk.

[0009] A Field Service Engineer (FSE) must normally for each analyzer apparatus install validated software (i.e., validated by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatuses and / or the hospital IT department), e.g., by applying patches to already installed software, wherein patching entails code being deleted and replaced, to ensure that integrity of the validated software is maintained and not compromised with at any stage.

[0010] However, a drawback of an FSE installing software on each analyzer apparatus is that it is a timeconsuming and cumbersome process and leaves the analyzer apparatus non-functioning during a lengthy software installation process and therefore making the analyzer apparatus unavailable for clinical personnel and patients during the time of installation.

[0011] In addition of the time-consuming and cumbersome process of installing software in each analyzer apparatus is that once the installation has been completed, then the analyzer apparatus which has been installed with new or updated software needs to be started-up again which normally is also a time-consuming process depending on how long the analyzer apparatus has been non-functioning during the software installation process making the analyzer apparatus unavailable for clinical personnel and patients for even longer time.

[0012] Thus, there is a need for new approaches for installing software on analyzer apparatuses, which solve, or at least mitigate at least some of the above-discussed drawbacks.

[0013] SUMMARY

[0014] It should be emphasized that the term "comprises / comprising" (replaceable by "includes / including") when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0015] Generally, when an apparatus or device is referred to herein, it is to be understood as a physical product. The physical product may comprise one or more parts, such as control circuitry in the form of one or more controllers, one or more processors, or the like. It is an object of some embodiments to solve or mitigate, alleviate, or eliminate at least some of the above or other drawbacks.

[0016] According to a first aspect, this is achieved by a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer apparatus configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables.

[0017] The method comprises obtaining a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus, and determining whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode.

[0018] The method further comprises, when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode, installing the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, and starting-up the analyzer apparatus in the first mode.

[0019] The method furthermore comprises, when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the second mode, obtaining data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus, storing the obtained data in a storage device, installing the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, re-applying the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and starting-up the analyzer apparatus in the second mode.

[0020] In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining the software installer image comprising the set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus.

[0021] In some embodiments, the software installer image comprising the set of software components forms a system image.

[0022] In some embodiments, the set of software components comprises one or more of operating system components, software patches, and analyzer apparatus software components.

[0023] In some embodiments, obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises obtaining a snapshot of the state of the analyzer apparatus. In some embodiments, storing the obtained data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises storing the data on a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0024] In some embodiments, installing the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components comprises installing the software installer image on a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0025] In some embodiments, re-applying the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device comprises re-applying the state based on the obtained data from a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0026] In some embodiments, the obtained data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of analyzer apparatus settings and customizations, logs, calibration data, status data of the one or more sensor device and consumables, and quality control data.

[0027] In some embodiments, the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of temperature of the one or more sensor device and consumables, number of measurements performed by the analyzer apparatus affecting remaining use of the one or more sensor device and consumables, error logs of the analyzer apparatus affecting possible use of the one or more sensor devices and consumables, number of measurements remaining on the sensor device, amount of consumables remaining, and quality control data.

[0028] In some embodiments, the one or more sensor device and consumables are configured to operate under a set of pre-requisites.

[0029] In some embodiments, the set of pre-requisites comprises one or more of set temperature intervals for the one or more sensor devices and consumables, performed calibrations and quality controls of the one or more sensor devices and consumables and the analyzer apparatus.

[0030] In some embodiments, the analyzer apparatus is configured to be operably connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device comprises writable memory.

[0031] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises a portable memory device with a writable flash memory and an integrated universal serial bus (USB) interface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises writable memory in one or more servers in a cloud infrastructure. A second aspect is a computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium, having thereon a computer program comprising program instructions, the computer program being loadable into a data processing unit and configured to cause execution of the method according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein when the computer program is run the data processing unit.

[0033] With this aspect similar advantages and preferred features are present as in the previously discussed first aspect.

[0034] The term "non-transitory," as used herein, is intended to describe a computer-readable storage medium (or "memory") excluding propagating electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to otherwise limit the type of physical computer-readable storage device that is encompassed by the phrase computer-readable medium or memory. For instance, the terms "non-transitory computer readable medium" or "tangible memory" are intended to encompass types of storage devices that do not necessarily store information permanently, including for example, random access memory (RAM). Program instructions and data stored on a tangible computer-accessible storage medium in non-transitory form may further be transmitted by transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, which may be conveyed via a communication medium such as a network and / or a wireless link. Thus, the term "non- transitory", as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0035] A third aspect is an analyzer apparatus configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables.

[0036] The analyzer apparatus comprising controlling circuitry configured for installation of software and to cause obtainment of a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus, and determination of whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode.

[0037] The controlling circuitry is further configured for, when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode, installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, and start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the first mode.

[0038] The controlling circuitry is furthermore configured for, when the analyzer apparatus is to startup in the second mode, obtainment of data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus, storage of the obtained data in a storage device, installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the second mode.

[0039] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry is further configured for storage of the obtained data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus in a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0040] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry is further configured for installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components in a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0041] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry is further configured for re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in a virtual hard disk on the analyzer apparatus.

[0042] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry is further configured to be operably connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device comprises writable memory.

[0043] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises a portable memory device with a writable flash memory and an integrated universal serial bus (USB) interface.

[0044] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises writable memory in one or more servers in a cloud infrastructure.

[0045] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry is further configured for communication with one or more servers in a cloud infrastructure over a packet-switched network.

[0046] With this aspect, similar advantages and preferred features are present as in the previously discussed aspects and vice versa. An advantage of some embodiments is that new approaches for installing software on analyzer apparatuses are provided.

[0047] Another advantage of some embodiments is that image installation can be utilized for installing software comprising OS software, software patches, and analyzer apparatus software on one or more analyzer apparatuses, and wherein a new image can be installed on one or more analyzer apparatuses in much less time than the conventional ways of installing software on analyzer apparatuses which results in much reduced software installation times.

[0048] Yet an advantage of some embodiments is that image installation can also be utilized for upgrading software comprising OS software, software patches, and analyzer apparatus software on one or more the analyzer apparatus software, and wherein a new image can be installed on analyzer apparatuses in much less time than the conventional ways of upgrading software on analyzer apparatuses which results in much reduced software upgrade times.

[0049] Yet another advantage of some embodiments is that the much reduced software installation and upgrade time in turn reduces the down-time of the analyzer apparatus making the analyzer apparatus available for clinical personnel and patients for a longer time.

[0050] Yet another advantage of some embodiments is that image installation only requires one installation step which is more reliable than several installation steps and which requires less software installation and upgrade time but also allows for faster patching and therefore reduces the time wherein the analyzer apparatuses could be vulnerable for malicious attacks and ensures the cyber security of the analyzer apparatuses.

[0051] Yet another advantage of some embodiments is that having more than one full installation on the analyzer apparatus on separate virtual hard disks during image installation is that it allows the analyzer apparatus to be operational while updates are being applied and at the same time providing a back-up in case the installation fails or there is a need for a roll-back of the software.

[0052] These and other features and advantages of the embodiments described herein will in the following be further clarified with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0053] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Further objects, features and advantages of some embodiments will appear from the following detailed description, with reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 2 is flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

[0056] Figure 3 is flowchart illustrating example method steps of a computer-implemented method for installing software on an analyzer apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating example analyzer apparatuses configured for installation of software in accordance with some embodiments; and

[0058] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example system of analyzer apparatuses configured for installation of software in accordance with some embodiments.

[0059] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the steps, services and functions explained herein may be implemented using individual hardware circuitry, using software functioning in conjunction with a programmed microprocessor or general purpose computer, using one or more Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and / or using one or more Digital Signal Processors (DSPs). It will also be appreciated that when embodiments are described in terms of a method, it may also be embodied in one or more processors and one or more memories coupled to the one or more processors, wherein the one or more memories store one or more programs that perform the steps, services and functions disclosed herein when executed by the one or more processors.

[0061] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described and exemplified more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. The solutions disclosed herein can, however, be realized in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0062] As mentioned above, a drawback of an FSE installing software on each analyzer apparatus is that it is a time-consuming and cumbersome process and leaves the analyzer apparatus non- functioning during a lengthy software installation process and therefore making the analyzer apparatus unavailable for clinical personnel and patients during the time of installation.

[0063] Also, as mentioned above, in addition of the time-consuming and cumbersome process of installing software on each analyzer apparatus is that once the installation has been completed, then the analyzer apparatus which has been installed with new or updated software needs to be started-up again which normally is also a time-consuming process depending on how long the analyzer apparatus has been non-functioning during the software installation process making the analyzer apparatus unavailable for clinical personnel and patients for even longer time.

[0064] Further, patching (i.e., deleting and replacing code) in analyzer apparatuses requires much time, especially for those analyzer apparatuses with outdated computer systems.

[0065] Generally, when an analyzer apparatus is started-up, it either starts-up in a first mode which is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus or in a second mode which is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus.

[0066] The warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus as described herein comprises that the analyzer apparatus and one or more sensor device and consumables accommodated in the analyzer apparatus which are configured to operate under a set of pre-requisites are in a state where a set of pre-requisites for the warm start-up are met.

[0067] For example, a warm start-up may be initiated if the analyzer apparatus only has been shutdown for a short time period such that physical properties of the sensor device and consumables accommodated in the analyzer apparatus have not changed substantially in e.g., temperature.

[0068] The cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus as described herein comprises that the analyzer apparatus and the one or more sensor device and consumables accommodated in the analyzer apparatus which are configured to operate under a set of pre-requisites are in a state where the set of pre-requisites are not met and wherein certain additional steps need to be taken in order to prepare the analyzer apparatus and the one or more sensor device and consumables for startup . The cold start-up is normally a lengthier start-up process than the warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus as additional preparation steps need be taken to meet the set of prerequisites. For example, a cold start-up may be initiated if the analyzer apparatus has been shut-down for a longer time period such that physical properties of the sensor device and consumables accommodated in the analyzer apparatus have changed substantially in e.g., temperature.

[0069] For example, the additional preparation steps that need be taken in the cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus may include increasing the temperature of the one or more sensor device and consumables, or to perform calibrations and / or Quality Control (QC) checks, etc.

[0070] Generally, it may be understood that the set of pre-requisites as described herein comprises one or more of set temperature intervals for the one or more sensor devices and consumables, performed calibrations and quality controls of the one or more sensor devices and consumables and the analyzer apparatus etc.

[0071] Generally, when an analyzer apparatus is referred to herein, it may be understood as an apparatus or system configured to conduct chemical, optical, physical or similar analysis on specimen, e.g., on individual samples or sample streams. Such analyzer apparatuses include analyzer apparatuses for performing various forms of clinical tests and / or analysis and / or monitoring, such as the measurement of physiological parameters of a patient.

[0072] For example, analyzer apparatuses may comprise blood gas analyzers, or immunoassay analyzers, or transcutaneous monitoring systems.

[0073] In the following, embodiments will be presented where new approaches for installing software on analyzer apparatuses are described.

[0074] Generally, when installing software on an analyzer apparatus is referred to herein, it may be understood to include complete or partial installation of software, or complete or partial upgrade of any already installed software on an analyzer apparatus. Some examples of software that can be installed or upgraded on an analyzer apparatus according to some embodiments include, but is not limited to - analyzer apparatus software, OS software, and patches.

[0075] Generally, when software components are referred to herein, it may be understood to include one or more of the following: analyzer apparatus software, OS software, and patches.

[0076] Generally, when image installation is referred to herein, it may be understood as installation of executables and image files. The file types of the executables and image files may include .exe, .dll, .ffu, .wim, and others. Image installation may also be understood as deploying and installing executables and image files on analyzer apparatuses.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, when image installation is referred to herein, it may be understood as the image installation may include more than one full deployment and installation of executables and image files on the analyzer apparatus. The file types of the executables and image files may include .vhd, .vhdx, and others. Image installation may also be understood as deploying and installing executables and image files of more than one full deployment and installation on the same analyzer apparatus.

[0078] In order to facilitate more than one image installation on an analyzer apparatus, virtual hard disks may be utilized. Virtual hard disks may include file types such as .vhd, .vhdx, and others.

[0079] For example, image installation may include two full 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 apparatus which allows for making changes to one of the installations (e.g., image installation A on virtual hard disk 1) while the other one (e.g., image installation B on virtual hard disk 2) is in use on the analyzer apparatus.

[0080] For example, one virtual hard disk (e.g., virtual hard disk 2) may be used as the system disk in use by the analyzer apparatus and another virtual hard disk (e.g., virtual hard disk 1) may be used for image installation which once completed the analyzer apparatus can re-boot from and start using as a new system disk. The previous system disk may then be used as a back-up, e.g., in case the software needs to be rolled-back to the previous version for some reason.

[0081] An advantage of having more than one full installation on an analyzer apparatus on separate virtual hard disks during image installation is that it allows the analyzer apparatus to be operational while updates are being applied and at the same time providing a back-up in case the installation fails or there is a need for a roll-back of the software.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, a software installer image, sometimes referred to as an operating system image or a disk image or a system image, may be thought of as a copy of a disk partition that can be applied to a hard drive of an apparatus. Alternatively or additionally, a software installer image, sometimes referred to as an operating system image or a disk image or a system image, may be thought of as a copy of a disk partition that can be applied to a virtual hard disk of an apparatus.

[0083] Generally, when virtual hard disks are referred to herein, it may be understood as a container file that acts similar to a physical hard drive. Like a physical hard drive, a virtual hard drive file may contain a file system, an operating system, applications and data. Virtual hard drive files are normally attached to virtual machines (VM), and function as system or data drives for the VM. A virtual hard drive file may be mounted to an OS in the same way as any other type of removable media that can be mounted and accessed by the OS.

[0084] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating method steps of an example computer-implemented method S100 according to some embodiments. The method S100 is for installing software on an analyzer apparatus configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables. The method S100 may, for example, be performed in one or more analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c of Figure 4 and / or in the system 500 of analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c of Figure 5.

[0085] In some embodiments, the one or more sensor device and consumables are configured to operate under a set of pre-requisites.

[0086] In some embodiments, the set of pre-requisites comprises one or more of set temperature intervals for the one or more sensor devices and consumables, performed calibrations and quality controls of the one or more sensor devices and consumables and the analyzer apparatus.

[0087] The method S100 comprises the following steps.

[0088] Optionally, in some embodiments, in step S101, the software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus is determined.

[0089] For example, the software installer image may be determined, e.g., generated and validated, by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatus and provided to production and / or FSEs for installation on analyzer apparatuses for new software installations and / or for software upgrades. In some embodiments, the software installer image comprising the set of software components forms a system image.

[0090] For example, the system image may comprise a compiled executable file.

[0091] In some embodiments, the set of software components comprises one or more of operating system components, software patches, and analyzer apparatus software components.

[0092] For example, as mentioned above, the software installer image can be generated and validated by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatus so that as early as in production of the analyzer apparatuses patching can be applied so that all software components, including OS components, software patches (e.g., patching components), and analyzer apparatus software components (e.g., embedded software components), can be installed at once with image installation without a lengthy and cumbersome installation process that would hold the production up for too long. By installing all software components as early on as in the production phase the need for early upgrades can be avoided as the newest software installations has been applied in the production already. Also, the need to add on higher-level software components at installation at POC is avoided as the single image installation also comprises the highest-level software components reducing the time needed for an FSE to set up the analyzer apparatus at POC.

[0093] For following upgrades, (e.g., software release, OS release, or patch release), an image with the upgraded software components as well as the software components that already are installed may be captured and generated by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatuses and be provided to either production and / or FSEs.

[0094] Normally, installation or upgrade processes for software comprises a plurality of steps, which in addition to being time consuming also introduces risks such as installation failure in multiple steps. Since image installation is only one installation (i.e., one step), which is faster in itself than the conventional methods, it reduces the risk of installation failure on multiple steps, reduces the time for installation of software in production, reduces the time that FSEs need to spend on installing / upgrading analyzer apparatuses at POC, as well as allows to patch faster to maintain or increase the cyber security of the analyzer apparatuses. In step S102, a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus is obtained.

[0095] For example, the software installer image may be provided by the manufacturer of the analyzer apparatus.

[0096] For example, the software installer image may be provided on a storage device 401, 402, 403, 503 as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

[0097] In step S103, it is determined whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode.

[0098] In some embodiments, it is an FSE that selects a mode to start-up the analyzer apparatus in.

[0099] In some embodiments, it is production personnel that selects a mode to start-up the analyzer apparatus in.

[0100] In some embodiments, it is the analyzer apparatus that determines which mode to start-up the analyzer apparatus in.

[0101] For example, the analyzer apparatus may be programmed to under certain conditions start-up in a certain mode.

[0102] In some embodiments, it is a remote server that determines which mode to start-up the analyzer apparatus in.

[0103] For example, the analyzer apparatus may receive a signal or data indicative of a mode to startup the analyzer apparatus in.

[0104] When the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode associated with the cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus, the method comprises the following steps:

[0105] In step S106, the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus is installed in one step.

[0106] In step S108a, the analyzer apparatus is started-up in the first mode associated with the cold start-up. When the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the second mode associated with the warm startup of the analyzer apparatus, the method comprises the following steps:

[0107] In step S104, data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus is obtained.

[0108] In some embodiments, the obtainment of data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises obtainment of a snapshot of the state of the analyzer apparatus.

[0109] In some embodiments, the obtained data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of analyzer apparatus settings and customizations, logs, calibration data, status data of the one or more sensor device and consumables, and quality control data.

[0110] In some embodiments, the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of temperature of the one or more sensor device and consumables, number of measurements performed by the analyzer apparatus affecting remaining use of the one or more sensor device and consumables, error logs of the analyzer apparatus affecting possible use of the one or more sensor devices and consumables, number of measurements remaining on the sensor device, amount of consumables remaining, and quality control data.

[0111] In step S105, the obtained data is stored in a storage device.

[0112] In some embodiments, the analyzer apparatus is configured to be operably connected to a storage device, wherein the storage device comprises writable memory.

[0113] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises a portable memory device with a writable flash memory and an integrated universal serial bus (USB) interface.

[0114] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises writable memory in one or more servers in an on-premise data center and a communication interface.

[0115] In some embodiments, the storage device comprises writable memory in one or more servers in a cloud infrastructure and a communication interface.

[0116] In step S106, the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components is installed on the analyzer apparatus in one step.

[0117] In step S107, the state of the analyzer apparatus is re-applied based on the obtained data stored in the storage device. In step S108b, the analyzer apparatus is started-up in the second mode associated with the warm start-up.

[0118] In step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer apparatus is started-up, all software components have been installed by image installation in one step. Since a new image comprising software components to be installed can be installed in only one step it reduces the installation time considerably compared to the conventional methods of first installing the OS, then applying patches to the OS, and finally installing the analyzer apparatus software.

[0119] Alternatively or additionally, in step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer apparatus is started-up, a selected number of software components have been upgraded by image installation in one step. Since a new image comprising updated software components to be installed can be installed in only one step it reduces the upgrade time considerably compared to the conventional methods of deleting and replacing code (i.e., patching).

[0120] Therefore, image installation, in addition to installation of new software, may also be used as a method of upgrading software on the analyzer apparatus, wherein the OS can be upgraded, new patches can be added, or the analyzer apparatus software can be modified as needed.

[0121] Hence, the much reduced installation and upgrade times in turn reduces the down-time of the analyzer apparatus making the analyzer apparatus available for clinical personnel and patients for a longer time.

[0122] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating method steps of an example computer-implemented method S200 according to some embodiments. The method S200 is for installing software on an analyzer apparatus wherein the apparatus is determined to operate in a first mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables. The method S200 may, for example, be performed in one or more analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c of Figure 4 and / or in the system 500 of analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c of Figure 5.

[0123] For example, the one or more sensor device may comprise a sensor cassette or a sensor device configured to perform chemical, optical, physical or similar analysis on specimens.

[0124] For example, in the first mode, a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus may comprise an analyzer apparatus that has not performed analysis on specimens and / or has been in a non- activate state for a longer period of time. For example, the analyzer apparatus may have been in a non-active state as it has been awaiting a software upgrade in order to meet the strict requirements on software upgrades meaning that that the one or more sensor device and consumables accommodated in the analyzer apparatus may not have acceptable physical properties, e.g., temperature intervals, meaning that the pre-requisites under which the sensor device and consumables can operate in are not met or the analyzer apparatus has not undergone the normal QC checks to ensure correct and reliable analysis of the specimens. The cold start-up may therefore require more time than other start-ups as the analyzer apparatus need to undergo preparation steps so that the sensor device and consumables can meet the pre-requisites as well as run the necessary QC checks.

[0125] In step S106, the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components is installed on the analyzer apparatus (reference to step S106 of Figure 1).

[0126] In step S106a, in some embodiments, a program on how to run the wet section is installed based on data stored in a storage device operably connectable to an analyzer apparatus.

[0127] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may comprise a series of coded software instructions on how to control operation of the complete or specific parts of the wet section.

[0128] In some embodiments, the wet section may be accommodated in the lower half of the of the analyzer apparatus and may comprise one or more consumables controllable by one or more pumps.

[0129] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may comprise a series of coded software instructions on how to control the one or more pumps for the one or more consumables in the wet section.

[0130] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may be stored in the software installer image provided in the storage device 401, 402, 403, 503 as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

[0131] In step S108a, the analyzer apparatus is started-up in the first mode (reference to step S108a of Figure 1). Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating method steps of an example computer-implemented method S300 according to some embodiments. The method S300 is for installing software on an analyzer apparatus wherein the apparatus is determined to operate in a second mode, wherein the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables. The method S300 may, for example, be performed in one or more analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c of Figure 4 and / or in the system 500 of analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c of Figure 5.

[0132] In step S104, data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus is obtained (reference to S104 of Figure 1).

[0133] For example, data related to one or more consumables of the analyzer apparatus is obtained, e.g., life span and uses of the one or more consumables.

[0134] For example, data and a program related to the operation of the wet section of the analyzer apparatus is obtained, e.g., a program on how to control one or more pumps in a wet section.

[0135] For example, data related to the analyzer apparatus on a system level is obtained, e.g., quality control data.

[0136] In step S105, the obtained data is stored in a storage device (reference to S105 of Figure 1).

[0137] In step S106, the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus is installed (reference to S106 of Figure 1).

[0138] In step S107, the state of the analyzer apparatus is re-applied based on the obtained data stored in the storage device (reference to S107 of Figure 1).

[0139] For example, the state of the analyzer may comprise current life span and / or number of uses of one or more consumables in the analyzer apparatus.

[0140] For example, the one or more consumables may comprise sensor cassettes or sensor devices, QC liquids, rinsing liquids, or idling liquids that are components that have a pre-determined life span or pre-determined number of uses before they are considered used-up or aged and need be replaced. For example, the state of the analyzer apparatus may comprise the current life span of the QC liquids, rinsing liquids, idling liquids.

[0141] For example, the state of the analyzer apparatus may comprise the current number of uses of the sensor cassettes or sensor devices.

[0142] In step S106a, in some embodiments, a program on how to run the wet section is installed based on data stored in a storage device operably connectable to an analyzer apparatus.

[0143] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may comprise a series of coded software instructions on how to control operation of the complete or specific parts of the wet section.

[0144] In some embodiments, the wet section may be accommodated in the lower half of the of the analyzer apparatus and may comprise one or more consumables controllable by one or more pumps.

[0145] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may comprise a series of coded software instructions on how to control the one or more pumps for the one or more consumables in the wet section.

[0146] For example, the program on how to run the wet section may be stored in the software installer image provided in the storage device 401, 402, 403, 503 as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

[0147] In step S108b, the analyzer apparatus is started-up in the second mode (reference to step S108b of Figure 1).

[0148] In step S108a or S108b, once the analyzer apparatus is started-up, all software components have been installed by image installation in one step. Since a new image comprising software components to be installed can be installed in only one step it reduces the installation time considerably compared to the conventional methods of first installing the OS, then applying patches to the OS, and finally installing the analyzer apparatus software.

[0149] Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating example analyzer apparatuses configured for installation of software in accordance with some embodiments. The analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c are configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables, the analyzer apparatuses comprising controlling circuitry CTRL 405 configured for installation of software. Thus, the analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c may, for example, be configured to perform one or more of the method steps of Figure 1, Figure 2, and Figure 3, and / or one or more of any steps otherwise described herein.

[0150] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 is further configured to be operably connected to a storage device 401, 402, 403, wherein the storage device comprises writable memory.

[0151] For example, the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 may be configured to be operably connected to a portable memory device 401 with a writable flash memory and an integrated universal serial bus (USB) interface, also referred to as USB memory stick. The USB memory stick 401 may comprise a software installer image to be installed on the analyzer apparatus. The USB memory stick 401 may also comprise data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus. The USB memory stick 401 may further comprise a program for operation of the wet section of the analyzer apparatus.

[0152] Alternatively or additionally, the data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus 400a is obtainable for re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus 400a.

[0153] The controlling circuitry CTRL 405 is further configured to cause obtainment of a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus 400a.

[0154] For example, the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 may be configured to obtain the software installer image from a writeable memory on the USB stick 401, or from one or more servers in an on-premise data center 402, e.g., in a hospital on-premise data center, or from a portable computer403 capable of being connected, e.g., via a wired or plugin connection, to the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c.

[0155] Additionally or alternatively, local communication with the on-premise data center may also be of a wireless type with protocols such as WiFi, LoRa, Zigbee, Bluetooth, or similar mid / short range technologies. The controlling circuitry CTRL 405 is further configured to cause determination of whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode.

[0156] For example, an FSE can determine if the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c is to start-up in either mode by selecting the mode on the analyzer apparatus and thereby the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 to cause determination of whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode.

[0157] Alternatively or additionally, the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c can determine if the analyzer apparatus is start-up in either mode by detection of data indicative of the mode to be selected on the connected writeable memory 401, 402, 403.

[0158] When the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c is determined to start-up in the first mode, the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 is configured to cause installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus in one step, and to start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the first mode associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus.

[0159] When the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c is determined to start-up in the second mode, the controlling circuitry CTRL 405 is configured to cause obtainment of data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c, storage of the obtained data in the storage device 401, 402, 403, installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c, re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device 401, 402, 403, and start-up of the analyzer apparatus 400a, 400b, 400c in the second mode associated with warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus.

[0160] Hence, in a POC setting as illustrated in Figure 4, image installation in one step is enabled for both warm and cold start-ups of analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c with a number of alternative storage devices 401, 402, 403 available in the POC setting.

[0161] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example analyzer apparatus configured for installation of software in accordance with some embodiments. The analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c are configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables, the analyzer apparatus comprising controlling circuitry CTRL 505 configured for installation of software. Thus, the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c may, for example, be configured to perform one or more of the method steps of Figure 1, Figure 2, and Figure 3, and / or one or more of any steps otherwise described herein.

[0162] In some embodiments, the controlling circuitry CTRL 505 is further configured to be operably connected to a storage device 503 wherein the storage device comprises writable memory in one or more servers in a cloud infrastructure 501.

[0163] For example, the controlling circuitry CTRL 505 may be configured to be operably connected to the one or more servers 503 with writeable memory in the cloud infrastructure 501, also referred to as the cloud. The one or more servers 503 may comprise a software installer image to be installed on one or more of the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0164] Alternatively or additionally, the one or more servers 503 may also comprise data related to a state of the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c which is obtainable for re-application of the state to the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0165] Alternatively or additionally, the one or more servers 503 may also comprise data and a program related to operation of a wet section of the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c which are obtainable for installation in the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0166] The controlling circuitry CTRL 505 is further configured to cause obtainment of a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c from the cloud 501.

[0167] For example, the controlling circuitry CTRL 505 may be configured to obtain the software installer image from the one or more servers 503 in the cloud 501 via a wireless connection through interfaces 504 of the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c and the cloud 501.

[0168] The controlling circuitry CTRL 505 is further configured to cause determination of whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode. For example, production or an FSE can determine if the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c is to start-up in either mode by remotely selecting the mode on the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c through interfaces 504.

[0169] Alternatively or additionally, the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c can determine if the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in either mode by receipt of data from the one or more servers 503 in the cloud 501 over a wireless connection indicative of the mode to be selected through interfaces 504.

[0170] Alternatively or additionally, the determination if the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c are to start-up in either mode can be based on a schedule for installing and / or upgrading software available in the one or more servers 503 and selectable by controlling circuitry CTRL 502 configured to select a installation / upgrade schedule ensuring that the analyzer apparatuses meet the strict requirements for software upgrades.

[0171] When the analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c are determined to start-up in the first mode, the controlling circuitry CTRL 505 is configured to cause installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, and to start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the first mode associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0172] When the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c is determined to start-up in the second mode, the controlling circuitry CTRL 505 is configured to cause obtainment of data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c, storage of the obtained data in the storage device, e.g., one or more servers 503 in the cloud 501, installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c, re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device in the cloud 501, and start-up of the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c in the second mode associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus 500a, 500b, 500c.

[0173] Hence, in a system setting as illustrated in Figure 5, image installation in one step is enabled for both warm and cold start-ups of cloud-connected analyzer apparatuses 500a, 500b, 500c for remote installation and / or upgrade of software. Other embodiments than the above-described are possible and within the scope of the claims. Different method steps than those described above, performing the method by hardware or software, may be provided within the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of a processing system, the one or more programs comprising instructions for performing the method according to any one of the above-discussed embodiments. Alternatively, according to another exemplary embodiment a cloud computing system can be configured to perform any of the methods presented herein. The cloud computing system may comprise distributed cloud computing resources that jointly perform the methods presented herein under control of one or more computer program products.

[0174] Generally speaking, a computer-accessible medium may include any tangible or non-transitory storage media or memory media such as electronic, magnetic, or optical media— e.g., disk or CD / DVD-ROM coupled to computer system via bus. The terms "tangible" and "non-transitory," as used herein, are intended to describe a computer-readable storage medium (or "memory") excluding propagating electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to otherwise limit the type of physical computer-readable storage device that is encompassed by the phrase computer- readable medium or memory. For instance, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" or "tangible memory" are intended to encompass types of storage devices that do not necessarily store information permanently, including for example, random access memory (RAM). Program instructions and data stored on a tangible computer-accessible storage medium in non-transitory form may further be transmitted by transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, which may be conveyed via a communication medium such as a network and / or a wireless link.

[0175] The controlling circuitry CTRL 405, 505 (associated with the analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c may be or include any number of hardware components for conducting data or signal processing or for executing code stored in memory 401, 402, 403, 503. The analyzer apparatuses 400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c have associated memory for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various methods described in the present description. The associated memory may include volatile memory 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 of the present description. According to an exemplary embodiment, any distributed 503 or local memory device 401, 402, 403 may be utilized with the analyzer apparatuses and methods of this description.

[0176] The communication interfaces 504 may additionally be arranged to communicate with other functional components and may thus be seen as control interface also.

[0177] Accordingly, it should be understood that parts of the described solution may be implemented either in a remote server, or in plurality of remote servers, for instance in a plurality of servers in communication with each other, a so called cloud solution. The different features and steps of the embodiments may be combined in other combinations than those described.

[0178] Generally, all terms used herein are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the relevant technical field, unless a different meaning is clearly given and / or is implied from the context in which it is used.

[0179] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed and the words "a" or "an" preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. It should further be noted that any reference signs do not limit the scope of the claims, that the embodiments may be at least in part implemented by means of both hardware and software, and that several "control circuits", "means" or "units" may be represented by the same item of hardware.

[0180] Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. In addition, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps. The above mentioned and described embodiments are only given as examples and should not be limiting to the present disclosure. Hence, it should be understood that the details of the described embodiments are merely examples brought forward for illustrative purposes, and that all variations that fall within the scope of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A computer-implemented method (S100) for installing software on an analyzer apparatus configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables, the method comprising the following steps: obtaining (S102) a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus, determining (S103) whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode, and when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode: installing (S106) the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, starting-up (S108a) the analyzer apparatus in the first mode, when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the second mode: obtaining data (S104) related to a state of the analyzer apparatus, storing (S105) the obtained data in a storage device, installing (S106) the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, re-applying (S107) the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and starting-up (S108b) the analyzer apparatus in the second mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: determining (S101) the software installer image comprising the set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus.

3. The method according to any of claims 1-2, wherein the software installer image comprising the set of software components forms a system image.

4. The method according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the set of software components comprises one or more of: operating system components, software patches, and analyzer apparatus software components.

5. The method according to any of claims 1-4, wherein obtaining data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises obtaining a snapshot of the state of the analyzer apparatus.

6. The method according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the obtained data related to the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of: analyzer apparatus settings and customizations, logs, calibration data, status data of the one or more sensor device and consumables, and quality control data.

7. The method according to any of claims 1-6, wherein the state of the analyzer apparatus comprises one or more of: temperature of the one or more sensor device and consumables, number of measurements performed by the analyzer apparatus affecting remaining use of the one or more sensor device and consumables, error logs of the analyzer apparatus affecting possible use of the one or more sensor devices and consumables, number of measurements remaining on the sensor device, amount of consumables remaining, and quality control data.

8. The method according to any of claims 1-7, wherein the one or more sensor device and consumables are configured to operate under a set of pre-requisites.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the set of pre-requisites comprises one or more of: set temperature intervals for the one or more sensor devices and consumables, performed calibrations and quality controls of the one or more sensor devices and consumables and the analyzer apparatus.

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

11. The method according to any of claims 1-10, wherein the storage device comprises a portable memory device with a writable flash memory and an integrated universal serial bus (USB) interface (401).

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

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

14. An analyzer apparatus (400a, 400b, 400c, 500a, 500b, 500c) configured to operate in a first or second mode, wherein the first mode is associated with a cold start-up of the analyzer apparatus and the second mode is associated with a warm start-up of the analyzer apparatus, and wherein the analyzer apparatus accommodates one or more sensor device and consumables, the analyzer apparatus comprising controlling circuitry (405, 505) configured for installation of software and to cause: obtainment of a software installer image comprising a set of software components to be installed on the analyzer apparatus, determination of whether the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first or second mode, and when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the first mode: installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the first mode, when the analyzer apparatus is to start-up in the second mode: obtainment of data related to a state of the analyzer apparatus, storage of the obtained data in a storage device (401, 402, 403, 503),installment of the obtained software installer image comprising the set of software components on the analyzer apparatus, re-application of the state of the analyzer apparatus based on the obtained data stored in the storage device, and start-up of the analyzer apparatus in the second mode.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the controlling circuitry (405, 505) is further configured to be operably connected to the storage device (401, 402, 403, 503), wherein the storage device comprises writable memory.

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