Automated specimen processing

Abstract

A medical specimen processing system 100 can include a track 110 configured to move a medical specimen 105 from a receiving location 150 to one or more testing locations 160. The medical specimen 105 can include a set of samples fields from an originating specimen facility 140. The system 100 can also include a robotics system 120 positioned adjacent to the track 110 at the receiving locations. The system 100 can further include a software component 130. A method of handling a medical specimen 900 can include intaking the medical specimen from an originating specimen facility at a remote testing facility 910. The method 900 can also include depositing the medical specimen onto a track at the remote testing facility 920 and sorting and analyzing the medical specimen via a robotics system 930.

Description

[0001] AUTOMATED SPECIMEN PROCESSING

[0002] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 641,044, filed on May 1, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED

[0005] RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0006] Not applicable.

[0007] NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOI T RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0008] Not applicable.

[0009] INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE STATEMENT

[0010] Not applicable.

[0011] BACKGROUND

[0012] In laboratory medicine, specimen processing (SP) refers to the pre-analytic activities required to prepare a collected patient specimen for subsequent analytical testing. SP activities vary across laboratories based on the type and complexity of testing performed, as well as the extent of pre-analytic tasks that are performed outside the laboratory prior to specimen receipt. SP activities are particularly important for patient care, as the pre-analytic phase, whether outside or inside the laboratory, has consistently been shown to be associated with increased error rates versus the analytic phase of testing. To minimize the risk of manual error, pre-analytic workstations have been incorporated into many clinical laboratories. These workstations often perform one or more task-targeted automation (TTA) activities that would otherwise be performed manually. In some settings, total laboratory automation (TLA) solutions have also been utilized to support improvements in clinical laboratory testing processes.

[0013] Maintaining the integrity and traceability of patient identification throughout all SP activities is important for a variety of reasons. Previously published studies suggest that some type of mislabeling event occurs in approximately 0.1 to 1.1% of manually labeled specimens. Accordingly, specimen labeling activities can be conducted in a manner that minimizes the risk of mislabeling. Many health systems, for example, now incorporate positive patient identification systems to minimize the risk of mislabeling at the point of collection. Maintaining specimen barcode traceability, with barcode labels printed from electronic health record orders being fully compatible with the laboratory information system and instrument interfaces, further minimizes the risk of mislabeling of specimens. Optical character recognition (OCR) technologies have also been developed to detect mislabeled specimens after they occur.

[0014] Despite these advances in TLA, TTA, and laboratory software, most clinical laboratories still require some degree of manual SP activities, including relabeling of some specimens intended for secondary internal and / or external referral laboratories. Additionally, laboratory staff may be tasked with other manual SP work, including manual entry of order notes, comments, or additional tests that may be handwritten on specimen labels or requisition paperwork. Other activities include ensuring that specimens ordered by clinicians were actually received in the laboratory, that the correct specimen type was received for a corresponding test order, that aliquots of appropriate volumes are prepared when multiple orders are placed on a single specimen, or that requests for test prioritization are followed when minimal specimen volume is available. Furthermore, while orders, labels, specimens, and paperwork are being reviewed, the specimen should be maintained at an appropriate temperature to ensure that subsequent testing is not compromised.

[0015] These activities and corresponding requirements can be very challenging and resource intensive in any laboratory setting, but are typical of SP activities in reference laboratories when specimen order information is not received electronically and / or with a barcode compatible tube.

[0016] SUMMARY

[0017] A medical specimen processing system can include a track configured to move a medical specimen from a receiving location to one or more testing locations. The medical specimen can include a set of samples fields from an originating specimen facility. The system can also include a robotics system positioned adjacent to the track at the receiving locations and is configured to route the medical specimen to the one or more testing locations. The system can further include a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with the one or more testing locations oriented at a remote testing facility. The software component can also determine how the medical specimen will be analyzed and sorted by the robotics system.

[0018] A method of handling a medical specimen can include intaking the medical specimen from an originating specimen facility at a remote testing facility. The remote testing facility can be geographically remote from the originating specimen facility. Also, the medical specimen can include a set of sample fields from the originating specimen facility. The method can also include depositing the medical specimen onto a track at the remote testing facility and sorting and analyzing the medical specimen via a robotics system. Furthermore, the sorting and analyzing done by the robotics system can be determined by a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with one or more testing locations oriented at the remote testing facility.

[0019] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention so that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and so that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. Other features of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of the invention, taken with the accompanying drawings and claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] FIG. 1 A is a top plan view of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with an example.

[0022] FIG. IB is a back left perspective view of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with an example.

[0023] FIG. 1C is a front right perspective view of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with an example.

[0024] FIG. ID is a front left perspective view of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with an example.

[0025] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a rack in accordance with an example. FIG. 3 A is an illustration of a carrier in accordance with an example.

[0026] FIG. 3B is a perspective illustration of a single modular track element having an automated hot loaded with a rack and specimens in accordance with another example.

[0027] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an overhead photograph of a rack in accordance with an example.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a receiving location and an output station in accordance with one example.

[0029] FIG. 6A is a front view of a read and feed station in accordance with one example.

[0030] FIG. 6B is a side partial interior view of a read and feed station focusing on the sample, camera, and gripper in accordance with one example.

[0031] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of a camera, gripper, specimen, and carrier assembly within a read and feed station in accordance with one example.

[0032] FIG. 6D is a perspective view of a portion of an interior within a read and feed station in accordance with one example.

[0033] FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a room temperature holding unit in accordance with one example.

[0034] FIG. 7B is a back perspective view of a room temperature holding unit in accordance with one example.

[0035] FIG. 7C is a top view of a room temperature holding unit in accordance with one example.

[0036] FIG. 7D is a perspective view of a frozen temperature holding unit in accordance with another example.

[0037] FIG. 8A is a side interior perspective view of a labeler in accordance with one example.

[0038] FIG. 8B is a side perspective view of a labeler in accordance with one example.

[0039] FIG. 9 illustrates a method of handling a medical specimen in accordance with one example. FIG. 10 is an overview flow diagram of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with an example.

[0040] FIG. 11 is an overall process flow diagram of an auto specimen processing system in accordance with one example.

[0041] FIG. 11A is a manifesting process portion of an SP End Users section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0042] FIGs. 1 IB and 11C are an input station process portion of the SP End Users section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0043] FIG. 1 ID is a remote process portion of the SP End Users section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0044] FIGs. 1 IE, 1 IF, and 11G are an output station portion of the SP End Users section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0045] FIG. 11H is a first portion of a flash section and read and feed section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0046] FIG. 1 II is a second portion of a read and feed section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0047] FIG. 11 J is a second portion of a flash portion of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0048] FIGs. 1 IK and 1 IL are a first portion of a temperature regulated storage section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0049] FIGs. 11M, UN, and 110 are a first portion of a labeler section of the diagram of FIG. 11.

[0050] These drawings are provided to illustrate various aspects of the invention and are not intended to be limiting of the scope in terms of dimensions, materials, configurations, arrangements or proportions unless otherwise limited by the claims.

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.

[0053] Definitions

[0054] In describing and claiming the present invention, the following terminology will be used.

[0055] The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a specimen” includes reference to one or more of such materials and reference to “the unit” refers to one or more of such devices.

[0056] As used herein with respect to an identified property or circumstance, “substantially” refers to a degree of deviation that is sufficiently small so as to not measurably detract from the identified property or circumstance. The exact degree of deviation allowable may in some cases depend on the specific context.

[0057] As used herein, “adjacent” refers to the proximity of two structures or elements. Particularly, elements that are identified as being “adjacent” may be either abutting or connected. Such elements may also be near or close to each other without necessarily contacting each other. The exact degree of proximity may in some cases depend on the specific context.

[0058] As used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility and imprecision associated with a given term, metric or value. The degree of flexibility for a particular variable can be readily determined by one skilled in the art. However, unless otherwise enunciated, the term “about” generally connotes flexibility of less than 2%, and most often less than 1%, and in some cases less than 0.01%.

[0059] As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary.

[0060] As used herein, the term “at least one of’ is intended to be synonymous with “one or more of.” For example, “at least one of A, B and C” explicitly includes only A, only B, only C, or combinations of each.

[0061] Numerical data may be presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a numerical range of about 1 to about 4.5 should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited limits of 1 to about 4.5, but also to include individual numerals such as 2, 3, 4, and subranges such as 1 to 3, 2 to 4, etc. The same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value, such as “less than about 4.5,” which should be interpreted to include all of the above-recited values and ranges. Further, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described.

[0062] Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Means-plus-function or step-plus- function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; and b) a corresponding function is expressly recited. The structure, material or acts that support the means-plus function are expressly recited in the description herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given herein. Example Embodiments

[0063] FIGs. 1A-1D illustrate an automated medical specimen processing system 100. As particularly illustrated in FIG. 1A, the medical specimen processing system 100 can include a track 110, a robotics system 120, and a software component 130. Medical specimens 105 are samples taken from the human body that are used for laboratory testing to diagnose, monitor, or screen for diseases. In some examples, the medical specimen 105 can include blood, urine, saliva, stool, sputum, swabs from various body sites, tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, amniotic fluid, and synovial fluid. The medical specimen 105 can come from an originating specimen facility 140 and arrive at a receiving location 150 of the medical specimen processing system 100. In some instances, the originating specimen facility 140 can be external to and remote from the location of the medical specimen processing system 100. Examples of the originating specimen facility 140 can include a hospital, clinic, or laboratory. Such facilities can be located at a remote location and are typically separated by a substantial distance (e.g. offsite, distinct property, separate city, separate state, etc.). In some cases, the originating specimen facility 140 can be located more than 0.5 miles, more than 1 mile, more than 5 miles, or more than 20 miles from the receiving location 150 but most often also within 2000 miles.

[0064] Once the medical specimen 105 arrives at the receiving location 150 from the originating specimen facility 140, the track 110 can be configured to move the medical specimen 105 from the receiving location 150 to one or more testing location 160. The robotics system 120 can be positioned adjacent to the track 110 at the receiving location 150 and can be configured to route the medical specimen 105 to the one or more testing locations 160.

[0065] In some examples, the medical specimen 105 can arrive at the receiving location 150 from the originating specimen facility 140 in tubes in a temperature-specific bag having an attached barcode. FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view of one example of the receiving location station 150. Additionally, when the medical specimen 105 arrives, it can be accompanied by a set of sample fields from the originating specimen facility. The sample fields can include at least one of client ID, client specimen count, client paperwork, medical specimen type, and tests required. In some examples, the set of sample fields can be in Health Level Seven (HL7) format. HL7 format is a code format that has a set of clinical standards and messaging formats that provide a framework for the management, integration, exchange, and retrieval of electronic information across different healthcare systems. Referring back to FIG. 1 A-1D, upon arrival at the receiving location 150, a technician (e.g. a live person or robotic technician) can input or scan the set of sample fields and the attached barcode into the software component 130, which can be configured to translate the set of sample fields and attached barcode into a local data format for use with the one or more testing locations 160 oriented at a remote testing facility. The software component 130, which in one example can be First Lite Automated Specimen Processing (FLASH), is what determines how the medical specimen 105 will be analyzed and sorted by the robotics system 120. Once scanned into the software component 130, a bag number, shipment number, airport, and box number can be displayed if present in a shipment tracking system for the medical specimen 105. Additionally, the software component 130 can be updated on the temperature holding conditions for the medical specimen 105, such as frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature. For example, the software component 130 can determine the testing to be performed by evaluating ordered tests associated with the scanned barcode on the medical specimen 105. As an example, if there is only one ordered test, then it can be considered a match. If there are more than one ordered test, then the system can evaluate all scanned tubes in the rack along with any specific information transmitted in the HL7 message including specimen type (i.e. serum) to determine how to match each patient’s specimen to the proper ordered tests.

[0066] In some examples, the system 100 can also include a rack 170 that is configured to hold the tube with the medical specimen 105 while on the track 110. The medical specimen 105 in tubes can be transferred to the rack 170 at the receiving location 150. Of course, the rack 170 can include holder slots for a plurality of tubes. FIG. 2 depicts a close-up of the rack 200 having twenty holder slot positions. The rack 200 can have a plurality of positions in the form of apertures or openings 210 to hold tubes with medical specimen 105. In some examples, the rack 200 can have ten positions. In other examples, the rack 200 can have 20 positions. In further examples, the rack 200 can have 30 position. It is comprehended herein that the rack 200 can have any number of positions depending on the system size and design capacity. The rack 200 can also include an attached barcode 220, which can be scanned into the software component. This allows the rack 200 to be tied with the original temperature specific bag having the medical specimen 105 originally received.

[0067] In some examples, the system 100 can also include a carrier 180 which receives and holds the rack 170. FIG. 3A depicts an up-close look at one example of such a carrier 300. The carrier 300 can have a top component 310 and a bottom component 320. The top component 310 can lock the rack 200 in place and hold it in a correct orientation. The bottom portion 320 of the carrier 300 can be an automated bot having a unique ID. Referring back to FIG. 1A, the system 100 can further include a camera 190 that can acquire an overhead photograph of the rack 170 to confirm which positions of the rack 170 contain medical specimen 105. In some examples, the camera 190 can be an In-Sight D900 machine vision system. Additionally, as exemplified in FIG. 4, artificial intelligence (Al) can be used to help the software component 130 identify which positions of the rack 170 contain medical specimen 105 using the overhead photograph 400 taken from the camera, which is depicted in FIG. 4. In this case, the software component can determine which holder slot positions are occupied and which are empty.

[0068] Referring again to FIG. 1 A, the track 110 can be a magnetic conveyance system that is made up of modular track elements. In one example, a connected set of modular track elements (e.g. FLYWAYS commercially available from Planar Motor) can be used to form the track. These example modular track elements can be connected in a tiled formation to form a pathway for the track. The modular nature of these elements can allow for any pattern to be created with the grid track 110 shown in FIG. 1 A as merely one example.

[0069] Regardless, the modular track elements allow the automated bot 300 and therefore the carrier 180 to levitate, and can be configured to sense position, orientation, and a unique ID of each automated bot 300. In one example, the Flyways are fully solid state with no moving parts meaning there is no maintenance required. Modularity allows them be arranged into any conceivable layout to suit any solution. In some examples, the automated bot 300 can be levitated from about 0.5 mm to about 4 mm above the surface of the Flyways. In other examples, the automated bot 330 can be levitated from about 0.5 mm to about 0.8 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm, from about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 2 mm above the surface of the Flyways. In one specific example, the automated bot 330 can be levitated about 1 mm above the surface of the Flyways. When levitated above the Flyways, the automated bot 330 can have 6 degrees of freedom. In other terms, the automated bot 330 can move freely in regard to the up / down, forward / back, left / right, pitch, roll, and yaw positions. A Planar Motor Controller (not shown) can take care of all traffic in the system, including routing and collision avoidance, allowing control of multiple automated bots 300 simultaneously. In some examples, heat can be dissipated in strategic locations of the track by using industrial chillers. FIG. 3B illustrates a single modular track element 330 (which can be tiled as shown in FIG. 1A). In this example, an automated bot 300 is shown with a rack 200 carrying a plurality of medical specimens 105. Note that in this case, the medical specimens vary in location, size, and shape which is one reason for difficulties in handling and sorting the specimens.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 1A, the system 100 can further include at least one intermediate location 195 between the receiving location 150 and the testing locations 160. The at least one intermediate location 195 can be connected to the receiving location 150 and the testing locations 160 via the track 110. Examples of intermediate locations 195 can include a read and feed (R&F) station 135, holding unit 145, labeling station 155, and output station 165. In some examples, the robotics system 120 can include at least one robotics module which can be located at the at least one intermediate location 195. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C and 6D, the robotics module for the R&F station 135 can include an electric gripper 630 that is configured to remove individual medical specimen 105 from the rack 170. The electric gripper can be connected to a belt-driven linear actuator that controls the gripper. In some examples, the electric gripper can have a plurality of fingers, giving it dexterity and control over the medical specimen 105 tubes. However, any mechanism which is capable of individually manipulating and moving the medical specimen 105 can be used.

[0071] FIGs. 6A-6D depict up close views of the R&F station 135. The R&F station 135 can further include a machine vision system 610 that is configured to capture a digital image of the medical specimen 105 and input the digital image into the software component 130. In some examples, the machine vision system 610 can be an In-Sight 7000 machine vision system. The digital image generated can be used to distinguish standard transport tubes from non-standard transport tubes which helps operators know if the sample needs to be poured off manually into a standard tube. For example, a standard tube required flag can be housed in the database for each ordered test received in the HL7 messages. As an example, if a standard tube is required by the testing lab, and a non-standard tube is received, then the sample will be placed in a rack to be manually or automatically poured into a standard tube. Conversely, if a standard tube is required and a standard tube was received, then the sample can be placed in the track ready rack. The digital image can also be used to identify different types of phlebotomy and aliquot tubes. This information can be transferred to the software component 130 for use in routing, testing and tracking. In some examples, the R&F station 135 can further include a scan camera 620 that can be configured to take a 360-degree digital image of the medical specimen 105. For example, this can be accomplished by placing the tube on a roller assembly attached to a linear ball screw bi-directional actuator that produces a back-and-forth motion. The camera actuation rate can match the tube movement to produce the 360-degree digital image while ensuring the image is not warped. The 360-degree digital image can then be input into the software component 130. In some examples, the scan camera 620 can be a GigE Line scan camera. The 360-degree digital image can also be used to retrieve all information from the attached barcode on the medical specimen 105 as well as any additional client information placed on the attached barcode, such as handwritten notes.

[0072] Referring again to FIG. 1A-1D, the system 100 can have a plurality of such R&F stations 135. In the illustrated example, two R&F stations 135 are used. However, depending on the design capacity additional or fewer such units can be implemented. Additionally, each R&F station 135 can have one active rack location where information is being gathered as described above, and at least one location for rack queuing. In some examples, there can be three locations for rack queuing. In other examples, there can be five locations for rack queuing. Furthermore, the R&F station 135 has a certain capacity for how many medical specimen 105 the R&F station 135 can process per hour. In some examples, the R&F station 135 can process from about 300 specimens per hour to about 500 specimens per hour. In other examples, the R&F station 135 can process from about 350 specimens per hour to about 450 specimens per hour. In one particular example, the R&F station 135 can process 439 specimens per hours. That means that in this example, if there are two R&F stations 135 in the system, then the R&F stations 135 can process 878 specimens per hour, or 439 specimens per each R&F station 135.

[0073] Certain embodiments of the system 100 include a holding unit 145. FIGs 7A-7C depict up close views of the holding unit 145. The holding unit 145 is designed to hold the medical specimen 105 until all of the medical specimen 105 within a rack 710 are processed within the software component or until a defined dwell time has been reached. The processing can include looking up the order from the client, completing any missing information for the order, or the like. In some instances, the holding unit 145 can also have a time-out process whereby medical specimens 105 are directed for manual processing if a predetermined maximum time limit is reached. As shown in FIG. 7B and top view FIG. 7C, the robotics module for the holding unit 145 can include a collaborative robot 720, which can grab the rack 710 from the track and place it into the holding unit 145. Although not always required, in most cases, the holding unit 145 can be temperature controlled, either being a frozen holding unit, a refrigerated holding unit, or a room temperature holding unit. In some examples of the system 100, a plurality of holding units 145 can be used in order to achieve a specific design capacity. Thus, in one example where there are three holding units, one holding unit can be a frozen holding unit, one can be a refrigerated holding unit, and another a room temperature holding unit. Additionally, the holding unit 145 has a predetermined capacity for how many racks it can hold depending on the type and size of the holding unit. For example, a refrigerated holding unit can have a capacity of from about 100 racks to about 200 racks. A frozen holding unit can have a capacity of from about 100 racks to about 200 racks. FIG. 7D shows a perspective illustration of a frozen holding unit which can be used. In this example, the robotic unit 720 can include a gripper 722 which engages with the rack 200 which is oriented within an automated bot 300 which is on a corresponding modular track element 330. The rack 200 can then be moved into a refrigerated storage compartment 730 until retrieved for later processing. In another example, a room temperature holding unit can have a capacity of from about 30 racks to about 80 racks.

[0074] Certain embodiments of the system 100 can also include a labeling station 155. FIGs. 8A-8B depict up close views of the labeling station 155. In some examples, the system 100 can include a plurality of labeling stations 155. The robotics module for the labeling station 155 can include a parallel gripper 810 attached to an articulated robotic arm 820. The parallel gripper 810 can be configured to sequentially pick up medical specimen 105, allowing the medical specimen 105 to be barcode scanned and labeled. In some examples the labeling station 155 can include an air wipe (not shown) that can perform a 360 degree laminar blowoff of frozen tubes with room temperature air. This can minimize external tube condensation and ice prior to labeling. The labeling station 155 can further include a print and apply labeling system 830 that can be configured to generate a barcode label to be applied to the medical specimen 105. This barcode label can include all of the information pertaining to the medical specimen that has been translated into the local data format by the software component 130. The labeling station 155 can have a predetermined capacity for processing medical specimen 105. In some examples, the labeling station 155 has a capacity of from about 200 tubes per hour to about 300 tubes per hour. Therefore, in an example where there are two labeling stations 155 and each labeling station has the capacity for 337 tubes per hour, the system 100 can have a capacity of 574 tubes per hour.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 1A, certain embodiments of the system 100 can further include an output station 165. In some examples, there can be a plurality of output stations 165. The output station 165 can also include a human machine interface 175 (HMI) that can direct a user on what to do with the medical specimen 105 based on instructions from the software component 130, inform the user on specimen status, or otherwise providing information regarding operation of the output station 165. The output station 165 can further include a pre-analytic plastic chain conveyance for specimen which are deemed “track-ready,” a manual aliquot and pour-off station for specimen that require aliquoting, and a manual processing bench for specimen that require any additional processing. In one alternative, an automated aliquoter can be included to allow for aliquoting of specimens. Such an automated aliquoter can be oriented within the input station, output station, or an intermediate station.

[0076] In further detail, the software component 130 can allow users to process information related to required tests of the medical specimen 105 prior to labeling at the labeling station 155. The software component 130 can also be used to clarify information related to test orders, required specimen types, and / or which tests should be assigned to which specimen when multiple specimen are received. Furthermore, the entire system can be operated by a high-powered Industrial PC (IPC) 185, where the software component 130 is housed. The IPC 185 can be configured to communicate with the entire system 100, including the at least one robotics module and the at least one intermediate location 195. Communications between any one or more of the IPC 185, input station 150, output station 175, holding unit 145, labeling station 155, and R&F station 135 can be wired or wireless. The IPC 185 can also be programmed using reusable function blocks that allow a programmer to add or subtract robotics modules easily. Each robotics module can have its own user interface 115, which gives users status updated and allows maintenance personnel to perform tasks. Such user interfaces can include one or more of display screens, touch screens, keyboards, button panels, voice recognition, and the like.

[0077] Consistent with the above described system 100, a corresponding method can be generalized which uses such systems or similar systems. By the following description, it is noted that all systems, units, tracks, components, and other physical features described above can be used in connection with the following methods. Similarly, the method steps described below are all considered implementable and performable by the above described systems. For example, a method of handling a medical specimen 900 can include intaking the medical specimen from an originating specimen facility at a remote testing facility 910. The method 900 can also include depositing the medical specimen onto a track at the remote testing facility 920. The method 900 can further include sorting the medical specimen and analyzing via a robotics system 930. In some examples, the remote testing facility can be geographically remote from the originating specimen facility. As previously mentioned, examples of originating specimen facilities can include hospitals, clinics, laboratories or the like.

[0078] In some embodiments, intaking of the medical specimen can take place at a receiving location at the remote testing facility. The medical specimen can arrive at the receiving location in bins, which contain medical specimens in temperature specific bags. In some examples, the bins can be temperature controlled for bag-specific holding temperatures. The bag-specific holding temperatures can be frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature. The temperature specific bags can be previously scanned into a shipment tracking system, where the status of the shipment can be updated to “processing” before reaching the receiving location. This allows a client who sent the medical specimen for testing to track the medical specimen throughout the process.

[0079] A loading technician can then scan an attached barcode on the temperature-specific bag using a software component, which results in inputting information from the barcode into the software component, such as bag number, shipment number, airport, and box number. The scanning also results in updating the software component on the temperature holding conditions required for the medical specimen. The loading technician can then enter and verify medical specimen counts for each temperature-specific bag into the software component. In some examples, the medical specimen can be accompanied by a set of sample fields from the originating specimen facility. The set of sample fields can include at least one of client ID, client specimen count, client paperwork, medical specimen type, and tests required. The loading technician can also scan in the set of sample fields into the software component. In some examples, depositing can include the loading technician placing at least one tube holding the medical specimen from the temperature-specific bag into a specimen rack. The specimen rack, as previously mentioned, can have a plurality of position that hold medical specimen tubes. A specimen rack barcode can then be scanned into the software component, tying the medical specimen rack to the original temperature-specific bag. In some examples, depositing can further include placing the rack with at least one tube on a carrier. The loading technician can then confirm depositing by pressing a button. The rack barcode can then be scanned and a machine vision system can acquire an overhead photograph of the rack to confirm which rack positions contain tubes. The information on which positions contain tubes can subsequently be used to minimize ineffectiveness by preventing the robotics system from trying to retrieve tubes from empty rack position.

[0080] At this point, sorting and analyzing of the medical specimen is ready to take place. The sorting and analyzing, which can be done by the robotics system, can be determined by the software component. In some examples, the software component can be configured to translate the set of sample fields that accompanied the medical specimen from the originating specimen facility into a local data format for use with one or more testing locations oriented at the remote testing facility. As previously mentioned, the set of sample fields can be in Health Level Seven (HL7) format. It can be the software component’s job to translate the set of sample fields in HL7 format into a local data format. The allows all data and information to be in the same format, preventing confusion and mix up of information. This can minimize error while simultaneously increasing efficiency of the remote testing locations.

[0081] In some examples, the sorting and analyzing of the medical specimen can take place at one or more intermediate locations oriented on the track. Examples of intermediate locations can include a read and feed (R&S) station, a holding unit, a labeling unit, and an output station such as those described previously. Sorting and analyzing at the R&S station can include using an electric gripper to remove the tubes from the rack and using a machine vision system to take a digital image of the tube profile. This can allow for the software component to distinguish standard transport tubes from non-standard transport tubes and identifying different types of phlebotomy and aliquot tubes. Sorting and analyzing at the R&S station can also include using a scan camera to generate a 360-degree digital image and inputting the digital image into the software component. This can allow the software component to receive all client information associated with the tube and review any additional information associated with the tube.

[0082] In some examples, sorting and analyzing at the holding unit can include scanning the tubes to determine the temperature holding conditions required, and holding the tubes in the holding unit. As previously mentioned, there can be a plurality of holding units with three options for temperature. The options include frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature. The tubes can be held in the holding unit until all tubes are processed within the rack or until a defined dwell time has been reached.

[0083] In some examples, sorting an analyzing at the labeling station can include scanning the racks and tubes, using a print and apply labeling system to generate a barcode label for each tube, and sorting the tubes into designated racks. Prior to labeling, frozen tubes can be exposed to a 360-degree laminar blowoff of room temperature air to minimize external tube condensation and ice. The print and apply labeling system can generate a barcode that has all the information associated with the tube in the local data format. The information can be translated into the local data format and verified by the software component. As previously mentioned, the labeling station can sort the tubes into one of three types of racks: and original rack, a pour-off rack, or a problem rack. The original rack can be for tubes ready to move on to testing. The pour-off rack can be for medical specimens where an aliquot is indicated based on the ordered tests. Finally, the problem rack can be for medical specimens that may require any other type of manual processing based on ordered tests.

[0084] In some examples, after leaving the labeling station, the sorting and analyzing at the output station can include scanning the barcode labels for the racks and generating directions for users via a human machine interface (HMI). This allows for users to understand what they need to do with the medical specimen, such as which tests to run. For examples, racks which all medical specimens are deemed “track-ready” can be placed directly on a pre- analytic plastic chain conveyance. Racks which contain medical specimens that require aliquoting can be moved to a manual aliquot and pour-off station. Racks which contain specimens that require any additional processing can be moved to a manual processing bench.

[0085] Examples

[0086] Example 1 - Auto SP System Overview FIG. 10 depicts an automated medical specimen processing system shows tasks, operations, and output from the system. The system of FIG. 10 can include reports which can include client reports, test reports, and combined client-test reports. Non-limiting examples of items covered in a client report can include: barcode scan failures, missing client order information, packing list changes, draw times versus arrival times (transfer delays), and specimen type codes. Non-limiting examples of items covered in a test report in this example can include: missing client order information, packing list changes, draw times versus arrival times, adherence to specimen type, and processing time per test. Non-limiting examples ofitems in a client-test report can include: draw times versus arrival time, specimen types by test, manual scenarios, exception types, and processing time per test.

[0087] As illustrated, a technician can load a test rack with specimens and place the test rack on the system at the input station. This loading step by the processor, involves identifying the bag number, gathering an image of the bag and scanning the rack ID. This information can be uploaded to FLASH in real time.

[0088] Example 2 - Specimen Flow Diagram

[0089] FIG. 11 depicts a specimen flow diagram which implements one example of the above-described methods. Each box refers to a figure that depicts that particular part of the process. For example, if a box is labeled 11C, then refer to FIG. 11C which depicts that particular part of the flow chart and process.

[0090] While the flowcharts presented for this technology may imply a specific order of execution, the order of execution may differ from what is illustrated. For example, the order of two more blocks may be rearranged relative to the order shown. Further, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed in parallel or with partial parallelization. In some configurations, one or more blocks shown in the flow chart may be omitted or skipped. Any number of counters, state variables, warning semaphores, or messages might be added to the logical flow for purposes of enhanced utility, accounting, performance, measurement, troubleshooting or for similar reasons.

[0091] Some of the functional units described in this specification have been labeled as modules, in order to more particularly emphasize their implementation independence. For example, a module may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising custom VLSI circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like.

[0092] The technology described here may also be stored on a computer readable storage medium that includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented with any technology for the storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer readable storage media include, but is not limited to, a non-transitory machine readable storage medium, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other computer storage medium which may be used to store the desired information and described technology.

[0093] The devices described herein may also contain communication connections or networking apparatus and networking connections that allow the devices to communicate with other devices. Communication connections are an example of communication media. Communication media typically embodies computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. A “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency, infrared and other wireless media. The term computer readable media as used herein includes communication media.

[0094] Reference was made to the examples illustrated in the drawings and specific language was used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the technology is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the features illustrated herein and additional applications of the examples as illustrated herein are to be considered within the scope of the description.

[0095] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples. In the preceding description, numerous specific details were provided, such as examples of various configurations to provide a thorough understanding of examples of the described technology. It will be recognized, however, that the technology may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, devices, etc. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the technology.

[0096] For example, various features and elements of the above-described invention can be used alone or in various combinations where elements descried in one example can be utilized in other described examples. More specifically, the invention can be generally described by the following clauses:

[0097] Clause 1. A medical specimen processing system, comprising: a track configured to move a medical specimen from a receiving location to one or more testing locations, wherein the medical specimen includes a set of sample fields from an originating specimen facility; a robotics system positioned adjacent to the track at the receiving location, and is configured to route the medical specimen to the one or more testing locations; and a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with the one or more testing locations oriented at a remote testing facility, wherein the software component determines how the medical specimen will be analyzed and sorted by the robotics system.

[0098] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, further comprising a rack configured to hold the medical specimen while on the track, wherein the medical specimen is transferred to the rack at the receiving location.

[0099] Clause 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the rack has a plurality of positions where medical specimen can be held.

[0100] Clause 4. The system of clause 2, wherein the rack and medical specimen have attached barcodes, wherein the attached barcodes are scanned at the receiving location and inputted into the software component.

[0101] Clause 5. The system of clause 3, further comprising a camera that acquires an overhead photograph of the rack to confirm which positions of the rack contain medical specimen.

[0102] Clause 6. The system of clause 2, further comprising a carrier with a top component and a bottom component, wherein the rack is placed on the carrier, wherein the top component of the carrier is configured to lock the rack that is placed on the carrier in place and to hold the rack in correct orientation, and wherein the bottom portion is an automated hot.

[0103] Clause 7. The system of clause 6, wherein the automated hot has a unique ID.

[0104] Clause 8. The system of clause 6, wherein the track is made up of Flyways, configured to sense the position, orientation, and unique ID of the automated bot.

[0105] Clause 9. The system of clause 8, wherein the track is a magnetic conveyance system configured to levitate the automated bot above the surface of the Flyways.

[0106] Clause 10. The system of clause 9, wherein the automated bot has 6 degrees of freedom when levitated above the Flyways.

[0107] Clause 11. The system of clause 1, wherein the sample fields include at least one of tests needed, specimen type, specimen identification, temperature assignment, patient information, or container identification.

[0108] Clause 12. The system of clause 11, wherein the sample fields are in Heath Level Seven (HL7) format.

[0109] Clause 13. The system of clause 1, wherein the originating specimen facility is at least one of a hospital, clinic, or laboratory.

[0110] Clause 14. The system of clause 2, further comprising at least one intermediate location between the receiving locations and the testing locations connected via the track.

[0111] Clause 15. The system of clause 14, wherein the robotics system comprises at least one robotics module which is located at the at least one intermediate location.

[0112] Clause 16. The system of clause 14, wherein the at least one intermediate location includes at least one of a read and feed (R&F) station, holding unit, labeling station, and output station.

[0113] Clause 17. The system of clause 16, wherein the R&F station is configured to gather information associated with the medical specimen and input the information into the software component, wherein information includes medical specimen identification, tests associated with the medical specimen, medical specimen type, and client information.

[0114] Clause 18. The system of clause 16, wherein the R&F station further comprises a machine vision system configured to capture a digital image of the medical specimen and input the digital image into the software component. Clause 19. The system of clause 16, wherein the R&F station further comprises a scan camera, configured to take a 360-degree digital image of the medical specimen and input the 360 degree digital image into the software component.

[0115] Clause 20. The system of clause 16, wherein the at least one intermediate location includes a plurality of R&F stations.

[0116] Clause 21. The system of clause 16, wherein the robotics module of the holding unit comprises a collaborative robot configured to place the rack into the holding unit.

[0117] Clause 22. The system of clause 21, wherein the holding unit is temperature specific depending on the medical specimen.

[0118] Clause 23. The system of clause 22, wherein there is a plurality of holding units.

[0119] Clause 24. The system of clause 23, wherein the plurality of holding units include a frozen holding unit, a refrigerated holding unit, and a room temperature holding unit.

[0120] Clause 25. The system of clause 16, wherein there is a plurality of labeling stations.

[0121] Clause 26. The system of clause 16, wherein the robotics module of the labeling station comprises a parallel griper attached to an articulated robotic arm configured to sequentially pick up the medical specimen.

[0122] Clause 27. The system of clause 16, wherein the labeling station further comprise a print and apply labeling system configured to generate a barcode label.

[0123] Clause 28. The system of clause 16, wherein the output station further comprises a human machine interface (HMI), which based on the software component’s instruction, directs users on what to do with the medical specimen.

[0124] Clause 29. The system of clause 15, wherein the software component is housed in a high-powered Industrial PC (IPC), configured to communicate with the at least one robotics module and the at least one intermediate location.

[0125] Clause 30. A method of handling a medical specimen, comprising: intaking the medical specimen from an originating specimen facility at a remote testing facility, wherein the remote testing facility is geographically remote from the originating specimen facility and wherein the medical specimen includes a set of sample fields from the originating specimen facility; depositing the medical specimen onto a track at the remote testing facility; sorting the medical specimen and analyzing via a robotics system; wherein the sorting and analyzing done by the robotics system is determined by a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with one or more testing locations oriented at the remote testing facility.

[0126] Clause 31. The method of clause 30, wherein intaking includes receiving bins which contain medical specimen in temperature-specific bags.

[0127] Clause 32. The method of clause 31, wherein the temperature-specific bags have previously been scanned into a shipment tracking system.

[0128] Clause 33. The method of clause 31, wherein the bins are temperature controlled for bag-specific holding temperatures.

[0129] Clause 34. The method of clause 33, wherein the bag-specific holding temperatures are one of frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature.

[0130] Clause 35. The method of clause 31, wherein intaking includes a loading technician scanning a bag barcode using the software component.

[0131] Clause 36. The method of clause 35, wherein the scanning results in updating the software component on the temperature holding conditions required for the medical specimen.

[0132] Clause 37. The method of clause 35, wherein intaking additionally includes the loading technician entering and verifying the medical specimen count for each bag into the software component.

[0133] Clause 38. The method of clause 35, wherein intaking also includes the loading technician scanning the set of sample fields into the software component.

[0134] Clause 39. The method of clause 35, wherein depositing includes the loading technician placing at least one tube from the temperature-specific bag into a specimen rack.

[0135] Clause 40. The method of clause 39, wherein a specimen rack barcode is scanned into the software component.

[0136] Clause 41. The method of clause 35, wherein depositing includes placing the rack with at least one tube on a carrier, where the rack barcode is scanned and a machine vision system acquires an overhead photograph of the rack to confirm which rack positions contain tubes.

[0137] Clause 42. The method of clause 30, wherein the originating specimen facility is at least one of a hospital, clinic, or laboratory. Clause 43. The method of clause 30, wherein sorting and analyzing includes a read and feed (R&S) station, a holding unit, a labeling unit, and an output station.

[0138] Clause 44. The method of clause 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the R&S station includes using an electric gripper to remove the tubes from the racks, using a machine vision system to take a digital image of the tube profile, and using a scan camera to generate a 360- degree digital image.

[0139] Clause 45. The method of clause 44, wherein the digital image and the 360-digital image are input into the software component.

[0140] Clause 46. The method of clause 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the holding unit includes scanning the tubes, determining the temperature holding conditions required for the tubes, and holding the tubes in the holding unit until either all tubes are proceed or for a defined dwell time.

[0141] Clause 47. The method of clause 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the labeling station includes scanning the tubes, using a print and apply labeling system to generate a barcode label for each tube, and sorting the tubes into designated racks.

[0142] Clause 48. The method of clause 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the output station includes scanning the barcode labels for the racks and generating directions for users via a human machine interface (HMI).

[0143] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features and operations described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the described technology.

Claims

CL IMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A medical specimen processing system, comprising: a track configured to move a medical specimen from a receiving location to one or more testing locations, wherein the medical specimen includes a set of sample fields from an originating specimen facility; a robotics system positioned adjacent to the track at the receiving location, and is configured to route the medical specimen to the one or more testing locations; and a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with the one or more testing locations oriented at a remote testing facility, wherein the software component determines how the medical specimen will be analyzed and sorted by the robotics system.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a rack configured to hold the medical specimen while on the track, wherein the medical specimen is transferred to the rack at the receiving location.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the rack has a plurality of positions where medical specimen can be held.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the rack and medical specimen have attached barcodes, wherein the attached barcodes are scanned at the receiving location and inputted into the software component.

5. The system of claim 3, further comprising a camera that acquires an overhead photograph of the rack to confirm which positions of the rack contain medical specimen.

6. The system of claim 2, further comprising a carrier with a top component and a bottom component, wherein the rack is placed on the carrier, wherein the top component of the carrier is configured to lock the rack that is placed on the carrier in place and to hold the rack in correct orientation, and wherein the bottom portion is an automated bot.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the automated bot has a unique ID.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the track is made up of modular track elements, configured to sense the position, orientation, and unique ID of the automated bot.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the track is a magnetic conveyance system configured to levitate the automated bot above the surface of the modular track elements.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the automated bot has 6 degrees of freedom when levitated above the modular track elements.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the sample fields include at least one of tests needed, specimen type, specimen identification, temperature assignment, patient information, or container identification.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the sample fields are in Heath Level Seven (HL7) format.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the originating specimen facility is at least one of a hospital, clinic, or laboratory.

14. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least one intermediate location between the receiving locations and the testing locations connected via the track.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the robotics system comprises at least one robotics module which is located at the at least one intermediate location.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one intermediate location includes at least one of an input station, read and feed (R&F) station, holding unit, labeling station, and output station.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the R&F station is configured to gather information associated with the medical specimen and input the information into the software component, wherein information includes medical specimen identification, tests associated with the medical specimen, medical specimen type, and client information.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the R&F station further comprises a machine vision system configured to capture a digital image of the medical specimen and input the digital image into the software component.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the R&F station further comprises a line scan camera, configured to take a 360-degree digital image of the medical specimen and input the 360 degree digital image into the software component as a flat image.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one intermediate location includes a plurality of R&F stations.

21. The system of claim 16, wherein the robotics module of the holding unit comprises a collaborative robot configured to place the rack into the holding unit.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the holding unit is temperature specific depending on the medical specimen.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein there is a plurality of holding units.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the plurality of holding units include a frozen holding unit, a refrigerated holding unit, and a room temperature holding unit.

25. The system of claim 16, wherein there is a plurality of labeling stations.

26. The system of claim 16, wherein the robotics module of the labeling station comprises a parallel griper attached to an articulated robotic arm configured to sequentially pick up the medical specimen.

27. The system of claim 16, wherein the labeling station further comprise a print and apply labeling system configured to generate a barcode label.

28. The system of claim 16, wherein the output station further comprises a human machine interface (HMI), which based on the software component’s instruction, directs users on what to do with the medical specimen.

29. The system of claim 15, wherein the software component is housed in a high- powered Industrial PC (IPC), configured to communicate with the at least one robotics module and the at least one intermediate location.

30. A method of handling a medical specimen, comprising: intaking the medical specimen from an originating specimen facility at a remote testing facility, wherein the remote testing facility is geographically remote from the originating specimen facility and wherein the medical specimen includes a set of sample fields from the originating specimen facility; depositing the medical specimen onto a track at the remote testing facility; sorting the medical specimen and analyzing via a robotics system;wherein the sorting and analyzing done by the robotics system is determined by a software component that is configured to translate the set of sample fields into a local data format for use with one or more testing locations oriented at the remote testing facility.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein intaking includes receiving bins which contain medical specimen in temperature-specific bags.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the temperature-specific bags have previously been scanned into a shipment tracking system.

33. The method of claim 31, wherein the bins are temperature controlled for bagspecific holding temperatures.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the bag-specific holding temperatures are one of frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature.

35. The method of claim 31, wherein intaking includes a loading technician scanning a bag barcode using the software component.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the scanning results in updating the software component on the temperature holding conditions required for the medical specimen.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein intaking additionally includes the loading technician entering and verifying the medical specimen count for each bag into the software component.

38. The method of claim 35, wherein intaking also includes the loading technician scanning the set of sample fields into the software component.

39. The method of claim 35, wherein depositing includes the loading technician placing at least one tube from the temperature-specific bag into a specimen rack.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein a specimen rack barcode is scanned into the software component.

41. The method of claim 35, wherein depositing includes placing the rack with at least one tube on a carrier, where the rack barcode is scanned and a machine vision system acquires an overhead photograph of the rack to confirm which rack positions contain tubes.

42. The method of claim 30, wherein the originating specimen facility is at least one of a hospital, clinic, or laboratory.

43. The method of claim 30, wherein sorting and analyzing includes an input station, read and feed (R&S) station, a holding unit, a labeling unit, and an output station.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the R&F station includes using an electric gripper to remove the tubes from the racks, using a machine vision system to take a digital image of the tube profile, and using a scan camera to generate a 360-degree digital image.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the digital image and the 360-digital image are input into the software component as a flat image.

46. The method of claim 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the holding unit includes scanning the tubes, determining the temperature holding conditions required for the tubes, and holding the tubes in the holding unit until either all tubes are processed or for a defined dwell time.

47. The method of claim 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the labeling station includes scanning the tubes, using a print and apply labeling system to generate a barcode label for each tube, and sorting the tubes into designated racks.

48. The method of claim 43, wherein sorting and analyzing at the output station includes scanning the barcode labels for the racks and generating directions for users via a human machine interface (HMI).

Images