Continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system comprising an extraction subsystem including a plurality of extraction units and a controller. During operation, a nucleic acid extraction process is performed while a sample container is sequentially transferred among the plurality of extraction units. While the nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is being performed in one extraction unit, another extraction unit can receive another sample container and perform a nucleic acid extraction process therefor.

Description

CONTINUOUSLY LOADABLE INDIVIDUAL NUCLEIC ACID EXTRACTION AUTOMATION SYSTEM

[0001] The present invention relates to an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system comprising an extraction subsystem including a plurality of extraction units and a controller.

[0002]

[0003] Molecular diagnostics is a method of determining the presence or absence of diseases or infections by analyzing biological markers contained in proteins or genetic information such as DNA or RNA contained in samples using molecular biological techniques. In the case of infectious disease testing, when a specific infectious disease becomes prevalent, the same type of test is required to be performed on a large scale. Therefore, a centralized model has been mainly adopted, in which samples collected from local clinics and public health centers are rapidly transported to large diagnostic centers equipped with high-throughput testing systems to process molecular tests.

[0004] Conventional molecular diagnostic automation systems have been developed to process a large number of samples simultaneously, extracting nucleic acids and performing assay reactions in a batch manner to be suitable for such a centralized testing model.

[0005] However, a batch-type system that processes a large number of samples at once is not suitable for regions with low population density or for small- and medium-sized hospitals and clinics, since it takes a long time to collect enough samples for batch testing. In addition, when tests for various diseases are required and no particular pathogen predominates, the operational efficiency of such batch systems is significantly reduced.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for an automated extraction system capable of performing a variety of nucleic acid extractions corresponding to various samples for different molecular diagnostic tests, and particularly capable of performing individual nucleic acid extraction without waiting until a sufficient number of samples requiring the same extraction process are collected.

[0007] Furthermore, in areas or hospitals where only a small number of tests are required, requests for different types of tests may be received alternately. When extraction for one type of sample ends and extraction for another type begins, manual intervention is often required, such as replacing buffers or resetting extraction protocols. As the number and duration of operator interventions increase relative to system operation time, the number of systems manageable per operator decreases, resulting in increased labor and operational costs.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for an extraction system capable of automatically performing various types of nucleic acid extractions corresponding to different molecular diagnostic tests, and enabling continuous loading to minimizing operator intervention.

[0009]

[0010] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for operating a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system.

[0012] However, the present invention is not limited to the above objects, and various modifications and extensions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0013]

[0014] To achieve the foregoing objects of the present disclosure, a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure comprises (a) an extraction subsystem configured to receive a sample container and a material and to extract nucleic acids, the extraction subsystem comprising at least one extraction module, wherein the extraction module comprising: (a1) a working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, each of the at least three extraction units comprising at least one function selected from the group of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation, and each of the at least three extraction units being used once sequentially during extraction of the sample container; (a2) a liquid handling unit; and (a3) a container transfer unit configured to transfer the sample container between the extraction units; and (b) a controller configured to control the extraction subsystem such that while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress in one extraction unit among the at least three extraction units, another extraction unit receives another sample container and performs a nucleic acid extraction process for the another sample container.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction subsystem may comprise a plurality of extraction modules.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction module may further comprise an additional working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, and the liquid handling unit may be configured to access each of the working stations in the extraction module.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of extraction modules may be configured to perform different extraction protocols.

[0018] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to determine an extraction module to perform nucleic acid extraction for the sample container based on identification information of the sample container, and to control the sample container to be transferred to the determined extraction module.

[0019] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the container transfer unit such that while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is being performed, the sample container is sequentially transferred to and received by two or more extraction units among the at least three extraction units.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the extraction module such that a portion of the nucleic acid extraction process is performed in an extraction unit in which the sample container is received.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction module may be configured to selectively perform two or more extraction protocols, and the controller may be configured to determine an extraction protocol to be used in the extraction module based on a type of sample.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to determine, according to the determined extraction protocol, extraction units to be used for nucleic acid extraction of the sample among the at least three extraction units included in the extraction module.

[0023] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units may comprise a multifunctional extraction unit configured to perform two or more functions.

[0024] In some exemplary embodiments, the multifunctional extraction unit may be configured to selectively perform the two or more functions.

[0025] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units may comprise two or more of the multifunctional extraction units.

[0026] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to select, according to the determined extraction protocol, a function to be performed by each of the two or more multifunctional extraction units included in the extraction module.

[0027] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the extraction unit such that a function of the extraction unit in which the sample container is received is changed while a nucleic acid extraction process for the sample container is in progress.

[0028] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to control functions of the at least three extraction units such that two or more extraction protocols are continuously performed in one extraction module.

[0029] In some exemplary embodiments, the two or more functions may comprise at least two functions selected from the group consisting of a heating function, a swirling function, and a magnetic field generation function.

[0030] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units may include an extraction unit comprising a temperature control means configured to control a temperature of the sample container.

[0031] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units may include an extraction unit comprising a driving means configured to move the sample container to swirl a solution in the sample container.

[0032] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units may include an extraction unit comprising a magnetic means configured to apply magnetic force to the sample container.

[0033] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three extraction units in the working station may be arranged in a first direction.

[0034] In some exemplary embodiments, the container transfer unit may be configured to move in the first direction and to transfer the sample container between the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction.

[0035] In some exemplary embodiments, the working station may comprise two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step in the nucleic acid extraction process.

[0036] In some exemplary embodiments, the two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step may be arranged side by side in the first direction.

[0037] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction module may further comprise a supply station configured to accommodate one or more materials.

[0038] In some exemplary embodiments, the system may further comprise a storage subsystem configured to supply one or more materials for nucleic acid extraction, and a transfer subsystem configured to transfer the sample container and the one or more materials to the extraction subsystem.

[0039] In some exemplary embodiments, the storage subsystem may be configured to selectively supply one or more materials for nucleic acid extraction according to the sample container.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction subsystem may be configured to receive the sample container and the one or more materials from the transfer subsystem and to extract nucleic acids.

[0041] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction subsystem may comprise a plurality of extraction modules, and the controller may be configured to control the materials corresponding to extraction protocols performed in the respective extraction modules to be provided to the respective extraction modules.

[0042] In some exemplary embodiments, the working station may be configured to allow addition or replacement of extraction units without modification of other extraction units included in the working station.

[0043] In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid handling unit may be configured to access the at least three extraction units of the working station and materials of the supply station.

[0044] In some exemplary embodiments, the supply station may be configured such that two or more materials are arranged in a first direction.

[0045] In some exemplary embodiments, the supply station may comprise a positioning guide for each of the two or more materials.

[0046] In some exemplary embodiments, the supply station may comprise a cover opening / closing unit for the materials.

[0047] In some exemplary embodiments, the container transfer unit may be configured to sequentially transfer the sample container once to each of the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress.

[0048] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction subsystem may be configured to allow addition of an extraction module without modification of other extraction modules included in the extraction subsystem.

[0049] In some exemplary embodiments, the system may further comprise a waste collection unit configured to collect waste generated after use of the materials.

[0050] In some exemplary embodiments, the transfer subsystem may comprise a material transfer module configured to transfer one or more materials of the storage subsystem to a supply station of the extraction module.

[0051] In some exemplary embodiments, the transfer subsystem may further comprise a sample transfer module configured to provide the sample container to the extraction module.

[0052] In some exemplary embodiments, the system may further comprise a dispensing device configured to dispense a predetermined amount of sample from a primary sample container to the sample container.

[0053] In some exemplary embodiments, the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system may further comprise a transfer subsystem configured to transfer the sample container and the material to the extraction subsystem, wherein the transfer subsystem comprises an aspiration deck configured to allow the liquid handling unit to aspirate a sample from a primary sample container, and a cap master unit configured to decap and recap the primary sample container.

[0054] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction subsystem may comprise two or more extraction modules, the transfer subsystem may comprise two or more material transfer modules, and each extraction module may be assigned to one of the material transfer modules.

[0055] In some exemplary embodiments, the material transfer module may comprise two or more material transfer units.

[0056] In some exemplary embodiments, the two or more material transfer units may transfer different types of materials.

[0057] In some exemplary embodiments, the material may comprise a consumable or an extraction reagent.

[0058] In some exemplary embodiments, the extraction reagent may comprise an extraction reagent cartridge including two or more reagents.

[0059] In some exemplary embodiments, the storage subsystem may comprise a storage area configured to store the one or more materials and a pickup area configured to deliver the materials to the transfer subsystem.

[0060] In some exemplary embodiments, the storage area may comprise two or more material storage modules.

[0061] In some exemplary embodiments, the material storage module may comprise two or more material storage units.

[0062] In some exemplary embodiments, the two or more material storage units may store different types of materials.

[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, the two or more material storage units may be independently temperature-controlled.

[0064] To achieve another object of the present disclosure, a method for operating a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure comprises (a) loading a first sample container to a first extraction unit of the extraction module; (b) determining an extraction protocol to be performed on the first sample container; (c) determining, based on the determined extraction protocol, an extraction protocol step to be performed by each of the at least three extraction units; (d) performing a first extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the first extraction unit; (e) transferring the first sample container to a second extraction unit and performing a second extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the second extraction unit; and (f) loading a second sample container to the first extraction unit of the extraction module. The system comprises an extraction module including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, and each of the at least three extraction units comprises at least one function selected from the group consisting of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation.

[0065]

[0066] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is configured to allows continuous loading of sample containers. Therefore, even while a nucleic acid extraction process is being performed for one sample, another sample container can be received so that a new nucleic acid extraction process can be initiated.

[0067] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is capable of automatically performing various types of nucleic acid extraction processes. Accordingly, even when sample containers containing various types of samples are loaded, nucleic acids can be automatically extracted according to appropriate extraction processes.

[0068] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is a scalable system configured to add one or more extraction modules without modification of the existing system. Therefore, the system can be flexibly expanded or configured according to environmental changes.

[0069] However, the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described above, and various modifications and extensions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0070]

[0071] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating another individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an extraction module of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating extraction units disposed in a working station of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system and an exemplary continuous loading method using the same.

[0075] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the working station and the extraction units according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a supply station and an arrangement of extraction reagents and consumables mounted thereto according to other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a storage subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a storage subsystem for supplying materials to respective extraction modules in an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system having a plurality of extraction modules according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a material transfer module of a transfer subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sample transfer module of a transfer subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a controller according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of extraction units in a working station according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 13 illustrates a dispensing device according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aspiration deck and a cap master unit of a transfer subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085]

[0086] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components.

[0087] The specific structural or functional descriptions set forth in this specification are merely illustrative examples provided for better understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms, and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. It should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are included. When an element is described as being "connected to" or "in contact with" another element, it should be understood that the element may be directly connected to or in direct contact with the other element, or connected or in contact indirectly through another intervening element. Likewise, when an element is described as being "directly connected to" or "directly in contact with" another element, it should be understood that there is no intervening element. Other expressions describing relationships between elements, such as "between" and "directly between," or "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to," shall be interpreted in the same manner.

[0088] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Singular expressions include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprise," "include," and "have" or variations thereof as used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or combinations thereof.

[0089] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Terms defined in generally used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having meanings consistent with the contextual meaning of the related technology and are not to be interpreted in an overly idealized or formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present application.

[0090] Terms such as "first", "second", and "third" may be used to describe various elements, but such elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one element from another. For example, within the scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second or third element, and similarly, the second or third element may be referred to interchangeably.

[0091]

[0092] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system comprising:

[0093] (a) an extraction subsystem configured to receive a sample container and a material and to extract nucleic acids, the extraction subsystem comprising at least one extraction module, the extraction module comprising:

[0094] (a1) a working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, each of the at least three extraction units comprising at least one function selected from the group of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation, and each of the at least three extraction units being used once sequentially during extraction of the sample container;

[0095] (a2) a liquid handling unit; and

[0096] (a3) a container transfer unit configured to transfer the sample container between the extraction units; and

[0097] (b) a controller configured to control the extraction subsystem such that while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress in one extraction unit among the at least three extraction units, another extraction unit receives another sample container and performs a nucleic acid extraction process for the another sample container.

[0098] As used herein, a "sample" means a material that contains, or is presumed to contain, an analyte. Samples include biological samples (e.g., cells, tissues, and body fluids from a biological source) and non-biological samples (e.g., food, water, and soil). Biological samples may include, but is not limited to, viruses, bacteria, tissues, cells, blood (including whole blood, plasma, and serum), lymph, bone marrow fluid, sputum, swabs, aspirations, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, bronchial washings, nasal washings, milk, urine, stool, ocular fluid, saliva, semen, brain extracts, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), synovial fluid, appendix, spleen and tonsil extracts, amniotic fluid, and ascitic fluid.

[0099] A sample may further include naturally occurring nucleic acid molecules isolated from a biological source as well as synthetic nucleic acid molecules.

[0100] In one embodiment, the term sample may include substances used for storage, processing, or detection of the sample. The sample may include additional substance, such as amplification reagents, detection reagents, preservatives, water, deionized water, saline, pH buffers, acidic solutions, and basic solutions, but is not limited thereto.

[0101] The continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system (hereinafter, "the system") extracts nucleic acids from a sample. The term nucleic acid extraction refers to a process of isolating and purifying nucleic acids such as DNA or RNA from a biological sample (e.g., blood, tissue, cell culture, swab, stool) or a material containing the same. The process may include steps such as disruption(lysis) of cell, removal of impurities such as proteins, selective separation of nucleic acids, and recovery.

[0102] In one embodiment, the system may extract nucleic acids from a sample by a multi-step extraction method. The composition of the extraction steps, the extraction reagents used in each step, and the extraction operations may vary depending on the sample type.

[0103] The multi-step extraction method may employ a magnetic bead-based approach. Magnetic beads are particles having a core of magnetic material that can be attracted by a magnet and whose surfaces are coated with chemical functional groups or functional polymers that reversibly bind nucleic acids depending on conditions such as pH. Magnetic beads can be moved or separated to desired positions by an external magnet, and impurities not bound to the beads can be removed through washing steps.

[0104] In one embodiment, the multi-step extraction method may be a liquid-transfer-based method. In the liquid-transfer method, magnetic beads are exposed to an appropriate buffer to allow binding with nucleic acids, the beads are immobilized in a tube using a magnet, the liquid in the tube is removed, and a buffer for the next step is added to proceed with the extraction process.

[0105] In another embodiment, the multi-step extraction method may be a bead-transfer-based method. In the bead-transfer method, the magnetic beads themselves are transported between buffers while separating nucleic acids. After allowing the beads to bind nucleic acids in a buffer, a magnetic rod equipped with a cover tip is inserted into the liquid to separate the beads from the liquid, and the beads are then introduced into the buffer for the next step to continue the extraction process.

[0106] The multi-step extraction method may include a lysis step in which a cell wall or membrane is disrupted by physical or chemical means to release intracellular materials containing nucleic acids. The lysis step may include mixing the sample with a lysis buffer. If the cells in the sample are already disrupted and nucleic acids are exposed, the multi-step extraction method may omit the lysis step.

[0107] The multi-step extraction method may further include a binding step in which magnetic beads are mixed with a cell lysate to allow nucleic acids to bind to the beads. A binding buffer may be added to the lysate for this purpose. The lysis and binding steps may be performed together as a single extraction step; for example, a buffer obtained by mixing a lysis buffer and a binding buffer may be contained in single extraction chamber and mixed with the sample and the magnetic beads.

[0108] The multi-step extraction method may include a washing step configured to purify nucleic acids by removing proteins and other cellular components. The washing step may include mixing the magnetic beads with a wash buffer and subsequently separating the beads from the wash buffer. Depending on the sample, the multi-step extraction method may include two or more washing steps. In such cases, the compositions of the wash buffers used in the respective washing steps may differ. In the multi-step extraction method performed by the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system, two or more washing steps may be distinguished as respective extraction steps.

[0109] The multi-step extraction method may include an elution step to separate and recover nucleic acids from the magnetic beads. The elution step may include mixing the magnetic beads with an elution buffer and then separating the beads from the elution buffer.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system is a system that extracts nucleic acids according to the multi-step extraction method including a lysis and / or binding step, a washing step, and an elution step. Unless otherwise specified, the term "nucleic acid extraction automation system" refers to the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system, and the terms "nucleic acid extraction automation system" and "individual nucleic acid extraction automation system" may be used interchangeably.

[0111]

[0112] Extraction Module

[0113] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure includes an extraction module. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an extraction module of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a working station and extraction units according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0114] The extraction module 1000 may include a working station 1100, a liquid handling unit 1300, and a container transfer unit 1400. The working station 1100 is a module that receives a sample container 500 and extracts nucleic acids from a sample contained therein. The liquid handling unit 1300 is a dispensing unit configured to quantitatively supply samples or reagents. The container transfer unit 1400 is a unit configured to transfer the sample container 500 between extraction units 1110.

[0115] A "sample container" refers to a container configured to receive, process, and transfer a sample or a solution. The sample container has an upper opening and includes a tubular body capable of holding a sample and a sealing structure configured to close or open the upper opening. The body may have a cylindrical or polygonal cross-section depending on its intended use. An information display portion may be provided on an outer surface of the body. Characters or a barcode may be printed or attached to the information display portion, or an RFID chip may be attached. The sealing structure may be, for example, a screw cap, a snap cap hinged to the body, a plug cap, a snap-on lid, or a heat-sealed film.

[0116] In one embodiment, the extraction module 1000 may include a plurality of working stations 1100. When the extraction module 1000 includes the plurality of working stations 1100, the liquid handling unit 1300 and the container transfer unit 1400 may be configured to access all of the plurality of working stations 1100. In one embodiment, the extraction module 1000 may further comprise an additional working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, and the liquid handling unit may be configured to access each of the working stations in the extraction module. Each working station 1100 independently receives a sample container and performs nucleic acid extraction. By sharing the liquid handling unit 1300 among the working station, the system architecture can be simplified and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0117] The working station 1100 may include at least three extraction units 1110. The working station 1100 may be configured to receive the sample container 500 and performs a nucleic acid extraction process to extract nucleic acids from a sample contained in the sample container 500. Each extraction unit 1110 may be configured to receive the sample container and performs at least a part of the nucleic acid extraction process. The number of extraction units 1110 included in one working station 1100 may be, for example, three or more or five or more, and may be twenty or fewer, fifteen or fewer, thirteen or fewer, or eleven or fewer.

[0118] In one embodiment, the working station may be configured to allow addition or replacement of extraction units without changing other extraction units included in the working station. The extraction units 1110 included in the working station 1100 may be modular extraction units. The working station 1100 may be configured such that one of the extraction units 1110 installed in the working station 1100 can be removed or a new extraction unit 1110 can be added without modifying other extraction units 1110.

[0119] The working station 1100 may include a mounting base 1120. The extraction units 1110 may be positioned on the mounting base 1120. A guide 1121 may be provided on the mounting base 1120 so that the extraction units are positioned at designated positions. The guide 1121 may be a structure protruding from an upper surface of the mounting base 1120, or may be a recess formed in the upper surface of the mounting base 1120.

[0120] The mounting base 1120 may have a flat upper surface so that the plurality of extraction units 1110 can be positioned at substantially the same height. Thus, control of the container transfer unit 1400 that transports the sample container 500 mounted on the extraction unit 1110 can be simplified, and the controller can stably control the container transfer unit 1400.

[0121] The sample container 500 is a container configured to contain a sample. The container may be configured to accommodate a single sample. The container may be made of polypropylene or glass having excellent chemical stability so as to minimize reactions with its contents. The container may include a lid configured to to prevent introduction of external contaminants and minimize evaporation of the internal sample. The sample container has a standardized size and shape suitable for use in automation equipment and may be configured to allow automatic capping or uncapping. A barcode or RFID tag may be attached to an outer surface of the container so that the container can be easily identified and tracked by the automation system.

[0122] In one embodiment, the working station 1100 may include the at least three extraction units 1110 arranged in a first direction. The first direction may be a horizontal linear direction. That is, the at least three extraction units 1110 may be arranged side by side in one linear direction on the working station 1100. Referring to FIG. 5(B), the first direction may correspond to the longitudinal direction of the mounting base 1120 indicated by D1.

[0123] In one embodiment, the container transfer unit 1400 may be configured to move in the first direction and transfer the sample container between the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction.

[0124] The container transfer unit 1400 transfers the sample container 500 between the extraction units 1110. The container transfer unit 1400 may include a container holder 1410 and a driving unit 1420. The container holder 1410 is configured to accurately grips and stably immobilizes the sample container 500 during transfer. The container holder 1410 may be a gripper. The container holder 1410 may include a pressure control function to prevent damage to the sample container. Alternatively, the container holder 1410 may employ a vacuum adsorption method to form a vacuum on a surface of the sample container 500 and thereby hold and transfer the sample container 500. The driving unit 1420 may include various motors and rail systems. The motor may be, for example, a servomotor or a step motor. The driving unit 1420 may include a linear actuator, or may include a ball screw or a lead screw. Accordingly, the driving unit 1420 can finely controls movements of the container holder 1410 to transfer the sample container 500 to an accurate position.

[0125] The extraction unit 1110 is configured to allows at least a part of a nucleic acid extraction process to be performed on a sample container 500 received in the extraction unit. The extraction unit 1110 may be configured to apply at least one of physical, thermal, and electromagnetic stimuli to the sample container 500.

[0126] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a working station and extraction units according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 5(A), the extraction units 1110 may be arranged side by side in the first direction on the working station 1100. The extraction unit 1110 allows a nucleic acid extraction process to be performed on a sample received in the working station 1100. For this purpose, the extraction unit 1110 may have various functions. The extraction unit 1110 may include at least one function selected from the group consisting of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation.

[0127] An extraction unit 1110-4 may include a temperature control means 1111. The temperature control means 1111 may be a heat-generating device or plate including a resistive heating wire, or a heating / cooling device or plate including a Peltier element. By using the extraction unit 1110-4 including the temperature control means 1111, a temperature of a solution contained in the sample container 500 may be controlled. In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units may include an extraction unit comprising a temperature control means configured to control a temperature of the sample container.

[0128] An extraction unit 1110-2 may have a swirling function. For this purpose, the extraction unit 1110-2 may include a driving means 1112. The driving means 1112 may include a platform on which the sample container 500 can be mounted. The driving means 1112 may include a motor configured to move the platform. The motor may be a DC motor, a servomotor, or a step motor. Power from the motor may drive a vibration mechanism to shake the platform periodically. The driving means 1112 may include a damper to block vibrations and noise other than the intended shaking. In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units may include an extraction unit 1110-2 comprising a driving means 1112 configured to move the sample container to swirl a solution in the sample container.

[0129] An extraction unit 1110-3 may have a magnetic field generation function. For this purpose, the extraction unit 1110-3 may include a magnetic means 1113. The magnetic means 1113 may be a substrate on which a plurality of permanent magnets are disposed. When a sample container is placed in the extraction unit 1110-3, the magnetic means 1113 may be configured such that the permanent magnets are positioned close to the sample contained in the sample container. The magnetic means 1113 may also be a substrate on which an electromagnet is disposed. Because an electromagnet allows control of magnetic field generation, it is suitable for use together with other functions in one extraction unit. In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units 1110 may include an extraction unit 1110-3 comprising a magnetic means 1113 configured to apply magnetic force to the sample container.

[0130] In one embodiment, the extraction unit 1110-8 may include a container receiving part 1114. The container receiving part 1114 allows the sample container 500 positioned on the upper surface of the extraction unit 1110-9 to be placed at a designated position so that heating and pipetting can be properly performed. It also prevents the sample container 500 from detaching from the extraction unit 1110-9 during swirling.

[0131] The extraction unit 1110 of the present disclosure may be a multifunctional extraction unit configured to perform multiple functions. The multifunctional extraction unit may be configured to perform two or more functions. FIG. 5(A) illustrates various exemplary multifunctional extraction units. For example, the extraction unit 1110-5 may include a driving means 1112 and a magnetic means 1113. The extraction unit 1110-6 may include a driving means 1112 and a temperature control means 1111. The extraction unit 1110-7 may include a driving means 1112, a magnetic means 1113, and a temperature control means 1111. In one embodiment, the two or more functions may include at least two functions selected from the group consisting of a heating function, a swirling function, and a magnetic field generation function. The extraction unit 1110-1 of the present disclosure may be configured without including the temperature control means 1111, the driving means 1112, or the magnetic means 1113, and may simply provide a space on which the sample container 500 is placed.

[0132] In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units may include a multifunctional extraction unit configured to perform two or more functions. The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure may include multifunctional extraction units configured to perform two or more of the above-described functions. Therefore, the extraction module 1000 may be capable of performing various nucleic acid extraction processes with a smaller number of extraction units.

[0133] The number of multifunctional extraction units included in the extraction module 1000 of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system is not particularly limited. For example, the extraction module 1000 may include one to five multifunctional extraction units. Alternatively, all extraction units 1110 included in the extraction module 1000 may be multifunctional extraction units. In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units may include two or more multifunctional extraction units. At least one of the at least three extraction units included in the extraction module 1000 of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system may have two or more functions. Alternatively, two or more of the extraction units included in the extraction module 1000 may have two or more functions.

[0134] In one embodiment, the multifunctional extraction unit may be configured to selectively perform the two or more functions. The multifunctional extraction unit may perform the two or more functions simultaneously. For example, the multifunctional extraction unit may heat the sample container while performing swirling. Alternatively, the multifunctional extraction unit may be configured to selectively perform only one of the two or more functions possessed by the unit. For example, after mixing magnetic beads and a sample solution by swirling, the magnetic beads may be immobilized by using the magnetic means 1113.

[0135] In one embodiment, the system of the present disclosure may be configured such that while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress, the sample container 500 is sequentially transferred to and received by two or more extraction units among the at least three extraction units 1110, and the nucleic acid extraction process is performed.

[0136] Hereinafter, examples of a nucleic acid extraction process being performed by a plurality of extraction units 1110 in the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an extraction module 1000 of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating extraction units 1110 disposed in the working station 1100 of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system and an exemplary continuous loading method using the same.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 4(A), the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 of the present disclosure may include eleven extraction units 1110 arranged from extraction unit 0 (1110a) to extraction unit 10 (1110k). A sample container 500 or 510 may be provided to the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 by a sample transfer module 3200. The container transfer unit 1400 transfers the sample container 500 or 510, which has arrived at the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 via the sample transfer module 3200, to extraction unit 0 (1110a).

[0138] When the nucleic acid extraction process for the sample container 500 or 510 is initiated, the sample container 500 or 510 positioned at extraction unit 0 (1110a) may be transferred to extraction unit 1 (1110b), and extraction reagents required for extraction may be dispensed. Extraction reagents 620 and consumables 610 may be accommodated in the supply station 1200, which will be described later. The extraction reagents 620 required for extraction may be dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 by the liquid handling unit 1300. The sample container 500 or 510 may be sequentially transferred from extraction unit 0 (1110a) to extraction unit 10 (1110k) by the container transfer unit 1400. The extraction reagents 620 dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 at extraction unit 1 (1110b) may include, for example, a lysis buffer, magnetic beads, a binding buffer, and an internal control. The extraction unit 1 (1110b) may have a swirling function and can agitate the solution in the sample container 500 or 510 so that the sample is lysed by the lysis buffer to expose nucleic acids, and the nucleic acids bind to the magnetic beads.

[0139] After the reaction in extraction unit 1 (1110b) is completed, the sample container 500 or 510 may be transferred to extraction unit 2 (1110c). The extraction unit 2 (1110c) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 or 510 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. The liquid handling unit 1300 may aspirate and remove solutions from the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 2 (1110c).

[0140] The sample container 500 or 510 from which the lysis and binding buffers have been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 3 (1110d). A first wash buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 3 (1110d). The extraction unit 3 (1110d) may have a swirling function and may be configured to agitate the solution in the sample container 500 or 510 so that the sample is washed by the first wash buffer.

[0141] After the reaction in extraction unit 3 (1110d) is completed, the sample container 500 or 510 may be transferred to extraction unit 4 (1110e). The extraction unit 4 (1110e) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 or 510 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. The liquid handling unit 1300 may aspirate and remove the solution (first wash buffer) from the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 4 (1110e).

[0142] The sample container 500 or 510 from which the first wash buffer has been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 5 (1110f). A second wash buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 5 (1110f). The extraction unit 5 (1110f) may have a swirling function and may be configured to agitate the solution in the sample container 500 or 510 so that the sample is washed by the second wash buffer.

[0143] After the reaction in extraction unit 5 (1110f) is completed, the sample container 500 or 510 may be transferred to extraction unit 6 (1110g). The extraction unit 6 (1110g) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generated a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 or 510 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. The liquid handling unit 1300 may aspirate and remove the solution (second wash buffer) from the sample container 500 or 510 located in extraction unit 6 (1110g).

[0144] The sample container 500 or 510 from which the second wash buffer has been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 7 (1110h). The extraction unit 7 (1110h) may have a heating function and dries the magnetic beads remaining after the removal of the second wash buffer.

[0145] After drying in extraction unit 7 (1110h) is completed, the sample container 500 or 510 may be transferred to extraction unit 8 (1110i). A third wash buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 8 (1110i). The extraction unit 8 (1110i) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 or 510 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. The liquid handling unit 1300 may aspirate and remove the third wash buffer from the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 8 (1110i).

[0146] The sample container 500 or 510 from which the third wash buffer has been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 9 (1110j). An elution buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 or 510 positioned in extraction unit 9 (1110j). The extraction unit 9 (1110j) may have swirling and heating functions and may be configured to agitate the solution in the sample container 500 or 510 so that nucleic acids bound to the magnetic beads are eluted from the beads by the elution buffer.

[0147] After the reaction in extraction unit 9 (1110j) is completed, the sample container 500 or 510 may be transferred to extraction unit 10 (1110k). The extraction unit 10 (1110k) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 or 510 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. Thus, the nucleic acid extraction process is completed, and the extracted nucleic acids may be transferred to an appropriate container or, with the magnetic beads settled, used directly in a subsequent process such as a PCR test.

[0148] When multifunctional extraction units having multiple functions as described above are used, the same nucleic acid extraction process may be performed using a smaller number of extraction units. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating another individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an example will be described, in which a nucleic acid extraction process is carried out by a plurality of extraction units 1110 at the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 in which a multifunctional extraction unit is utilized.

[0149] In the working station 1100 of FIG. 2, seven extraction units 1110 may be arranged from extraction unit 20 (1110m) to extraction unit 26 (1110s). A sample container 500 may be provided to the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 by a sample transfer module 3200. The container transfer unit 1400 may transfer the sample container 500, which has arrived at the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000 via the sample transfer module 3200, to extraction unit 20 (1110m).

[0150] When the nucleic acid extraction process for the sample container 500 begins, the sample container 500 positioned at extraction unit 20 (1110m) may be transferred to extraction unit 21 (1110n), and the reagents required for extraction may be dispensed. The extraction reagents 620 and consumables 610 may be located at the supply station 1200. The extraction reagents 620 required for extraction may be dispensed into the sample container 500 by the liquid handling unit 1300. The sample container 500 may be sequentially transferred from extraction unit 20 (1110m) to extraction unit 26 (1110s) by the container transfer unit 1400.

[0151] The extraction reagents 620 dispensed into the sample container 500 at extraction unit 21 (1110n) may include, for example, a lysis buffer, magnetic beads, a binding buffer, and an internal control. The extraction unit 21 (1110n) may have a swirling function and may be a multifunctional extraction unit including a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field.

[0152] With the sample container 500 positioned in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), a lysis buffer and a binding buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500, and the solution in the container may be agitated so that nucleic acids bind to the magnetic beads. Thereafter, the swirling function of the extraction unit 21 (1110n) may be stopped, and the magnetic means 1113 may be actuated to immobilize the magnetic beads on the bottom surface of the sample container, while the liquid handling unit 1300 aspirates and removes the solution (lysis and binding buffers) from the sample container 500 positioned in the extraction unit 21 (1110n). While the sample container 500 remains positioned in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), a first wash buffer is dispensed, and the swirling function and the magnetic means 1113 may be sequentially operated to wash the magnetic beads and remove the first wash buffer. Subsequently, a second wash buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), and the swirling function and the magnetic means 1113 may be sequentially operated to wash the beads and remove the second wash buffer.

[0153] The sample container 500 from which the second wash buffer has been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 22 (1110o). The extraction unit 22 (1110o) may have a heating function and may dry the magnetic beads remaining after removal of the second wash buffer. After drying in extraction unit 22 (1110o) is completed, the sample container 500 may be transferred to extraction unit 23 (1110p). A third wash buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 located in the extraction unit 23 (1110p). The extraction unit 23 (1110p) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 may be immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. The liquid handling unit 1300 may aspirate and remove the third wash buffer from the sample container 500 positioned in the extraction unit 23 (1110p).

[0154] The sample container 500 from which the third wash buffer has been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 24 (1110q). An elution buffer may be dispensed into the sample container 500 located in the extraction unit 24 (1110q). The extraction unit 24 (1110q) may have swirling and heating functions and may be configured to agitate the solution in the sample container 500 so that nucleic acids bound to the magnetic beads are released from the beads by the elution buffer.

[0155] After the reaction in extraction unit 24 (1110q) is completed, the sample container 500 may be transferred to extraction unit 25 (1110r). The extraction unit 25 (1110r) may include a magnetic means 1113 configured to generate a magnetic field, so that the magnetic beads in the sample container 500 are immobilized on the bottom surface of the container. Thus, the nucleic acid extraction process is completed, and the extracted nucleic acids may be transferred to an appropriate container or, with the magnetic beads settled, used directly in a subsequent step such as a PCR test.

[0156] Accordingly, by using multifunctional extraction units, the number of extraction units used in one extraction module of the present disclosure can be reduced.

[0157] The arrangement of extraction units in the working station described above may be configured such that, while a nucleic acid extraction process is performed for one sample, the respective extraction units perform different extraction steps. In one embodiment, the working station may include two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step in the nucleic acid extraction process. In one embodiment, the two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step may be arranged side by side in the first direction. With such an arrangement, the efficiency of continuous loading may be further maximized.

[0158] As described above, the nucleic acid extraction process may include multiple extraction steps. For example, it may include a lysis and binding step, a first washing step, a second washing step, a third washing step, and an elution step, and may further include, between steps, a magnetic field generation step to remove a solution. The durations of these extraction steps may vary from one another. As explained with reference to FIG. 4, in the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure, a container for nucleic acid extraction may move between extraction units step by step while performing each step. Accordingly, during continuous loading, the interval at which a sample container is loaded into the extraction module may be determined by the residence time of the sample container in the extraction unit having the longest residence time among the extraction units. When the number of extraction units performing the bottleneck step is increased to two or more, the loading interval of sample containers into the extraction module can be significantly reduced.

[0159] FIG. 12 shows an arrangement of extraction units of the working station 1100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 12(A) shows the same arrangement as FIG. 4(A). Specifically, eleven extraction units 1110 may be arranged from extraction unit 0 (1110a) to extraction unit 10 (1110k). Exemplary extraction steps and corresponding times at the respective extraction units 1110a-1110k are as follows.

[0160] At extraction unit 1 (1110b), a lysis and binding step may be performed for approximately 3 minutes. At extraction unit 2 (1110c), a bead capture and solution removal step may be performed for approximately 1 minute. At extraction unit 3 (1110d), a first washing step may be performed for approximately 2 minutes. At extraction unit 4 (1110e), a bead capture and solution removal step may be performed for approximately 1 minute. At extraction unit 5 (1110f), a second washing step may be performed for approximately 2 minutes. At extraction unit 6 (1110g), a bead capture and solution removal step may be performed for approximately 1 minute. At extraction unit 7 (1110h), a heating-based bead drying step may be performed for approximately 10 minutes. At extraction unit 8 (1110i), a third washing step may be performed for approximately 1 minute. At extraction unit 9 (1110j), a heating elution step may be performed for approximately 10 minutes. The sample container may then be transferred to extraction unit 10 (1110k), where nucleic acid extraction process is completed.

[0161] FIG. 12(B) shows an embodiment in which the working station 1100 includes, side by side, two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step in the nucleic acid extraction process. Specifically, in the working station 1100 of FIG. 12(B), two extraction units 7 (1110h) that perform the bead drying step for approximately 10 minutes are arranged side by side, and two extraction units 9 (1110j) that perform the elution step for approximately 10 minutes are arranged side by side. A sample container that would otherwise remain for 10 minutes in extraction unit 7 (1110h) to perform the bead drying step may instead reside for approximately 5 minutes each in the two extraction units 7 (1110h1, 1110h2) while performing the bead drying step. Likewise, a sample container that would otherwise remain for 10 minutes in extraction unit 9 (1110j) to perform the elution step may reside for approximately 5 minutes each in the two extraction units 9 (1110j1, 1110j2) while performing the elution step.

[0162] Accordingly, the residence time of the sample container in the extraction unit having the longest residence time within the nucleic acid extraction process performed in the working station 1100 may be reduced from 10 minutes to 5 minutes. Therefore, in the working station 1100 performing this nucleic acid extraction process, the loading interval of sample containers may be reduced from approximately 10 minutes to approximately 5 minutes.

[0163] Alternatively, a first sample container may perform a bead drying step for approximately 10 minutes and an elution step for approximately 10 minutes at the first extraction unit 7 (1110h1) and the first extraction unit 9 (1110j1), respectively, while a second sample container may perform the bead drying step for approximately 10 minutes and the elution step for approximately 10 minutes at the second extraction unit 7 (1110h2) and the second extraction unit 9 (1110j2), respectively.

[0164] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12(C), two or more container receiving parts 1114 may be provided in each of the extraction unit 7 (1110h) and the extraction unit 9 (1110j) to accommodate samples. This embodiment is substantially equivalent to providing two or more of the extraction unit 7 (1110h) and two or more of the extraction unit 9 (1110j), respectively.

[0165] As described above, the configuration of the working station 1100 of the present disclosure can significantly shorten the loading interval of sample containers into the extraction module and increase the number of samples processed per hour.

[0166] As described, in the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure, the sample container is sequentially transferred among a plurality of extraction units while the nucleic acid extraction process is performed. Each extraction unit is configured to perform a portion of the nucleic acid extraction process and, upon completion of the assigned process, may transfers the sample container to the next extraction unit. This distinctive operation of the system enables continuous loading within an individual nucleic acid extraction system and allows the execution of various extraction protocols. The operations of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure are controlled by the controller.

[0167]

[0168] Controller

[0169] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a controller according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The controller 400 may control a transfer subsystem 300 to transfer a sample container 500 and materials 600 required for nucleic acid extraction. The controller 400 may control a storage subsystem 200 to provide the materials 600 required for nucleic acid extraction to the transfer subsystem. The controller 400 may controls an extraction module 1000 so that nucleic acid extraction can performed. The extraction subsystem 100 may include a plurality of extraction modules 1000, and the controller 400 may independently control the respective extraction modules 1000.

[0170] In one embodiment, the controller 400 may control the extraction module such that a portion of a nucleic acid extraction process is performed in an extraction unit in which the sample container is received. The nucleic acid extraction process in the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure, as described above, may be controlled by the controller. The controller 400 may determine an extraction protocol corresponding to each sample container and may determine in advance the steps to be performed by each extraction unit. As the nucleic acid extraction process proceeds, the controller 400 controls the transfer of the sample container to a specific extraction unit according to a predetermined schedule and controls the extraction unit at which the sample container is located to perform a predetermined process.

[0171] In one embodiment, the controller 400 may control the container transfer unit such that, while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is being performed, the sample container may be sequentially transferred to and received by two or more extraction units among the at least three extraction units. As described above, the controller may control the system such that multiple extraction units collectively perform the nucleic acid extraction process.

[0172] In one embodiment, the extraction module may be configured to selectively perform two or more extraction protocols, and the controller may determine, according to the sample type, an extraction protocol to be used in the extraction module. The plurality of extraction units 1110 included in the extraction module 1000 may all be independently controlled. Therefore, a various extraction protocols can be executed.

[0173] As used herein, an "extraction protocol" is a procedure defining a sequence of process steps to be performed to isolate and purify nucleic acids from a sample, together with the operating conditions for each step. The extraction protocol may include a sequence of steps constituting the nucleic acid extraction process and the order in which they are performed. The extraction protocol may include process parameters such as time, temperature, swirling conditions, dispense volume, aspiration volume, flow rate of the liquid handling unit, and the timing and intensity for applying and releasing a magnetic field. The extraction protocol may also include specifications of reagents and consumables. An "extraction process" is a collective concept encompassing a set of processes that can be performed to isolate and purify nucleic acids from a sample; that is, it denotes a process framework defining types of steps and their interrelationships. The extraction protocol is a specific implementation of the extraction process. Accordingly, even for the same extraction process, different extraction protocols may be derived depending on the sample type, the reagents used, or the state of the apparatus.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 3, the extraction module 1000 may further include an identification information reader 1500 configured to read identification information of the sample container 500. The identification information reader 1500 may be a barcode reader, a QR code reader, a camera for recognizing identification information, or an RFID reader. The identification information reader may read identification information of the sample container 500 transferred by the sample transfer module 3200 and may receive sample data regarding the sample contained in the sample container. The sample data may include information necessary to extract nucleic acids from the sample. For example, it may include information about extraction reagents required for nucleic acid extraction of the sample, information regarding the extraction module 1000 that is to receive the sample container, or information indicating whether the sample container includes a sample subject to urgent testing.

[0175] When the sample container 500 is provided to the extraction module 1000 by the sample transfer module 3200, information regarding the sample container 500 may be transmitted to the controller 400 by the identification information reader 1500, and the controller 400 may determine an extraction protocol to be used in the extraction module according to the sample type. In one embodiment, the controller 400 may determine, according to the determined extraction protocol, extraction units among the at least three extraction units included in the extraction module to be used for nucleic acid extraction of the sample. Referring to FIG. 4, the nucleic acid extraction process described above is a process in which extraction is performed using all extraction units from extraction unit 0 (1110a) to extraction unit 10 (1110k). However, depending on the sample type, a nucleic acid extraction process may be performed using only one or two of the three wash buffers. In such cases, the nucleic acid extraction process may proceed using only some of the extraction units 1110 mounted on the working station 1100. For example, among the extraction units 1110a-1110k mounted on the working station 1100 in FIG. 4, the extraction units 5 (1110f) and 6 (1110g) may not be used. In this case, the controller 400 may determine, according to the determined extraction protocol, the specific extraction units among the extraction units 1110a-1110k to be used for nucleic acid extraction of the sample.

[0176] The controller 400 of the present disclosure may also be configured to control functions of multifunctional extraction units. In one embodiment, the controller may select, according to the determined extraction protocol, which function is to be performed by each of two or more multifunctional extraction units included in the extraction module. A multifunctional extraction unit may perform two or more functions simultaneously. As previously described with reference to FIG. 2, for example, the extraction unit 24 (1110q) is a multifunctional extraction unit having both swirling and heating functions. According to the extraction protocol, the controller may determine whether the extraction unit 24 (1110q) is to be used as the extraction unit responsible for a swirling step or as the extraction unit responsible for a heating step, and control the extraction unit accordingly.

[0177] In another embodiment, the controller may control the change of a function of the extraction unit in which the sample container is received while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress. During execution of one nucleic acid extraction process, a multifunctional extraction unit may use two or more functions successively. As previously described with reference to FIG. 2, the extraction unit 21 (1110n) has a swirling function and a magnetic field generation function. With the sample container 500 positioned in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), a lysis buffer and a binding buffer are dispensed into the sample container 500, and the solution in the sample container may be agitated to allow nucleic acids to bind to magnetic beads. Thereafter, the controller may stops the swirling function of the extraction unit 21 (1110n), activate the magnetic means 1113 to immobilize the magnetic beads to the bottom surface of the sample container, and control the liquid handling unit 1300 to aspirate and remove solutions from the sample container 500. With the sample container 500 remaining in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), a first wash buffer may be dispensed, and the controller may control the swirling function of the extraction unit 21 (1110n) and the magnetic means 1113 to operate sequentially to remove the first wash buffer. Subsequently, with the sample container 500 remaining in the extraction unit 21 (1110n), a second wash buffer may be dispensed, and the controller may control the swirling function of the extraction unit 21 (1110n) and the magnetic means 1113 to operate sequentially to wash the magnetic beads and remove the second wash buffer. To this end, the controller 400 can control a change of the function of the extraction unit while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress.

[0178] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system 10 of the present disclosure may also be configured to enable continuous loading. The continuous loading means that an operator can additionally load a new sample container even while the system is performing the nucleic acid extraction process for previously loaded sample containers, without waiting for the currently running batch to be completed.

[0179] This continuous loading function can minimize system downtime and enables random-access sample handling even in environments where sample arrival times are irregular. Therefore, compared with conventional nucleic acid extraction systems, sample handling efficiency can be improved and throughput can be maximized. In addition, the continuous loading function minimizes operator intervention so that a single operator can operate multiple systems simultaneously or perform unattended operation for extended periods.

[0180] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating extraction units disposed in the working station of the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system and an exemplary continuous loading method using the same according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the controller 400 may controls such that, while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container 500 is being performed in one extraction unit among the at least three extraction units 1110, another extraction unit 1110 may receive another sample container 500 and performs a nucleic acid extraction process.

[0181] FIG. 4(B) shows a first sample container 510 mounted on extraction unit 0 (1110a) of the working station 1100. When the nucleic acid extraction process for the first sample container 510 begins, the first sample container 510 positioned on extraction unit 0 (1110a) is transferred to extraction unit 1 (1110b), and reagents necessary for extraction may be dispensed. When the process at extraction unit 1 (1110b) is completed and the first sample container 510 has been transferred to extraction unit 2 (1110c), a second sample container 520 may be mounted on extraction unit 0 (1110a) of the same working station 1100 (see FIG. 4(C)). In extraction unit 2 (1110c), the magnetic beads in the first sample container 510 are immobilized on the bottom surface of the sample container, and the lysis buffer and binding buffer contained in the first sample container 510 may be removed. The first sample container 510 from which the lysis buffer and binding buffer have been removed may be transferred to extraction unit 3 (1110d). A first wash buffer may be dispensed into the first sample container 510 positioned at extraction unit 3 (1110d). In addition, the second sample container 520 may be transferred to extraction unit 1 (1110b) to proceed with the nucleic acid extraction process (see FIG. 4(D)). In this manner, two or more sample containers can be processed consecutively in one extraction module 1000. In conventional batch-type extraction apparatuses, when nucleic acid extraction for one sample container is completed, the sample container is removed from the apparatus, and a new sample container is then received to proceed with the nucleic acid extraction process. In the system of the present disclosure, however, the nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container proceeds while the sample container is sequentially transferred to and received by two or more extraction units among at least three extraction units. Therefore, while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is being performed in one extraction unit, another extraction unit can receive different sample container and perform a nucleic acid extraction process in parallel.

[0182] Thus, even while the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system 10 is performing the process of extracting nucleic acids from a sample, an operator can load a new cartridge containing a sample without interrupting the nucleic acid extraction process. Thus, system efficiency can be maximized and the operator intervention is minimized.

[0183] In one embodiment, the at least three extraction units 1110 may be configured to be used once sequentially while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress. The container transfer unit 1400 may be configured to sequentially transfer the sample container once to each of the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction while the nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress. The extraction units 1110 of the present disclosure may be arranged side by side in the first direction, and the sample container may be sequentially transferred to the extraction units 1110 in the first direction while the nucleic acid extraction process proceeds. With this extraction method involving one-way sample transfer, nucleic acid extraction processes for different types of samples can be performed consecutively in one extraction module 1000.

[0184] Various extraction reagents may be prepared and held in the supply station 1200 of the present disclosure, and an extraction unit 1110 whose execution of the nucleic acid extraction process for the first sample container 510 has been completed may not be used again for the first sample container 510. Accordingly, the controller 400 may control the extraction unit 1110 whose process for the first sample container 510 has been completed so that an extraction protocol for the second sample container 520 is performed. In one embodiment, the controller may control functions of the at least three extraction units such that two or more extraction protocols are continuously performed in one extraction module.

[0185]

[0186] Supply Station, Liquid Handling Unit, Container Transfer Unit, and Identification Information Reader

[0187] Referring to FIG. 3, the extraction module 1000 may include a supply station 1200, a liquid handling unit 1300, a container transfer unit 1400, and an identification information reader 1500. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the supply station and an arrangement of extraction reagents and consumables mounted therein according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0188] The supply station 1200 is configured to hold materials 600, 610, and 620 required for nucleic acid extraction. The materials 600 include consumables 610 such as pipette tips and extraction reagents 620 required for extraction. The extraction reagents 620 may be provided in appropriate containers. Each extraction reagent 620 may be provided in a separate container, or two or more extraction reagents may be provided in a multi-chamber container, such as a cartridge, with each extraction reagent contained in a respective chamber. As used herein, "extraction reagent" collectively includes the reagent substance itself and the extraction reagent contained within an appropriate container. In one embodiment, the extraction reagent 620 may be an extraction reagent cartridge 622 that contains two or more extraction reagents.

[0189] In one embodiment, the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure may further include a storage subsystem 200 configured to supply one or more materials for nucleic acid extraction, and a transfer subsystem 300 configured to transfer the sample container 500 and the one or more materials 600 to the extraction subsystem 100. Details thereof will be described later below.

[0190] In one embodiment, the extraction module 1000 may further include a supply station 1200 configured to accommodate one or more materials. The extraction subsystem 100 may receive the sample container and the materials from the transfer subsystem 300 and perform nucleic acid extraction. The extraction subsystem 100 may receive one or more materials from the transfer subsystem 300. The supplied sample container 500 may be placed on the working station 1100, and the supplied materials 600 may be placed on the supply station 1200.

[0191] In one embodiment, the supply station 1200 may be configured such that two or more materials 600 are arranged along the first direction. Thus, the supply station 1200 and the working station 1100 may be arranged in parallel so that the materials 600 can be efficiently provided to the working station 1100.

[0192] In one embodiment, the supply station 1200 may include a mounting base 1220. The mounting base 1220 provides a space on which the materials 600 can be placed. In one embodiment, the supply station 1200 may include positioning guides 1210, 1210-1, and 1210-2 for each of the two or more materials 600. The positioning guides 1210 ensure that the materials 600 are positioned in predetermined position. The positioning guide 1210 may be a recess formed on the upper surface of the mounting base 1220 of the supply station 1200, or a wall or structure protruding upward from the upper surface of the mounting base 1220. The positioning guides 1210 may be shaped to match the size of each material 600. For example, a positioning guide 1210-1 for consumables 610 and a positioning guide 1210-2 for extraction reagents 620 may differ in size or shape.

[0193] A plurality of materials 600 may be accommodated in the supply station 1200. The number and types of materials accommodated in the supply station 1200 may vary depending on the type of samples processed by the extraction module 1000. FIG. 6(A) illustrates an exemplary configuration of materials that may be arranged in the supply station 1200. For example, the supply station 1200 may be configured to accommodate nine types of extraction reagents 620. The extraction reagent 1 (620-1) may be proteinase K, the extraction reagent 2 (620-2) may be an internal control, the extraction reagent 3 (620-3) may be a lysis buffer, the extraction reagent 4 (620-4) may be magnetic beads, the extraction reagent 5 (620-5) may be a binding buffer, the extraction reagent 6 (620-6) may be a first wash buffer 1, the extraction reagent 7 (620-7) may be a second wash buffer 2, the extraction reagent 8 (620-8) may be a third wash buffer 3, and the extraction reagent 9 (620-9) may be an elution buffer.

[0194] In one embodiment, the reagents 620 may be provided in a state covered with covers 621. The supply station 1200 may include a cover opening and closing unit 1230 for the materials 600. Any extraction reagent that remains in the supply station may be protected from contamination by means of a cover. The cover opening and closing unit 1230 may be configured to remove the reagent covers from the extraction reagents, temporarily store them, and replace the covers after operation of the extraction module 1000 is completed. The cover opening and closing unit 1230 may include a gripper capable of picking up the covers. The cover opening and closing unit 1230 may include a shelf for storing the covers and a driving unit for moving the gripper.

[0195] In one embodiment, the mounting base 1220 may include a temperature control means 1240. When an extraction reagent that requires refrigeration is left in the supply station 1200 for an extended period, the performance of the extraction reagent may deteriorate. To prevent this, the temperature control means 1240 may be installed at a position where such extraction reagents are placed, to maintain their temperature at a low level. The temperature control means 1240 may be a cooling device including a thermoelectric element such as a Peltier element, and may further include a heat pipe-based cooling structure, a liquid-circulation-type cooling structure, or a compact compressor-based refrigeration unit. Thus, a stable low-temperature environment can be maintained for reagents exposed in the supply station 1200 for a long time, minimizing reagent degradation and enhancing system reliability and reproducibility.

[0196] In one embodiment, the extraction module 1000 may include a liquid handling unit 1300. The liquid handling unit 1300 may be a liquid-handling device for performing aspiration, dispensing, and mixing of liquids. The liquid handling unit 1300 may be configured to access the three or more extraction units 1110 of the working station and the materials 600 of the supply station 1200.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 1, the liquid handling unit 1300 may include a liquid handler. The liquid handling unit 1300 may include a motion unit 1310 that controls movement of the liquid handler. The motion unit 1310 controls the movement of the liquid handling unit 1300. Specifically, the motion unit 1310 supports at least three axes of movement among X-, Y-, and Z-directional movements and rotational movement, thereby realizing precise motion of the liquid handling unit. Alternatively, the motion unit 1310 may be a multi-joint robotic arm.

[0198] In one embodiment, the liquid handling unit 1300 may be, for example, a dispensing unit. The dispensing unit may be a device that repeatedly supplies a specific reagent (e.g., a wash buffer or an elution buffer) and may dispense liquids at high speed. The dispensing unit may enable multi-channel dispensing through a nozzle array, and each channel may dispense a different liquid. The dispensing unit may be configured to connect to a fixed reagent supply line or a cartridge-type reagent pack.

[0199] In one embodiment, the liquid handling unit 1300 may be a pipettor. The pipettor may include one or more pipette units and a motion unit. The pipette unit may include a pipette head and a pipette body. The pipette head may hold a pipette tip and aspirate and dispense a liquid. The pipette head may be coupled to the pipette body so as to move vertically. The pipette body transmits power to the pipette head and controls the movement of the pipette head.

[0200] The extraction module 1000 may include a container transfer unit 1400. The container transfer unit 1400 transfers the sample container 500 between the extraction units 1110. The container transfer unit 1400 may include a container holder 1410 and a driving unit 1420. The container holder 1410 is configured to hold the sample container 500 and may be in the form of a gripper. The container holder 1410 may include a support portion for receiving the sample container. The driving unit 1420 moves the container holder 1410. The driving unit 1420 may include a linear rail and a guide and may employ, for example, a belt drive mechanism. The driving unit 1420 may include a step motor or a servo motor.

[0201] The extraction module 1000 may include an identification information reader 1500 configured to read identification information of the sample container 500. The identification information reader 1500 may be a barcode reader, a QR code reader, a camera for recognizing identification information, or an RFID reader. The identification information reader 1500 may read identification information of the sample container 500 transferred by the sample transfer module 3200 and may receive sample data regarding the sample contained in the sample container. The sample data may include information required to extract nucleic acids from the sample. For example, it may include information regarding extraction reagents required for nucleic acid extraction for the sample, information regarding the extraction module 1000 that is to receive the sample container, or information indicating whether the sample container contains a sample designated for urgent testing.

[0202] As described above, the extraction module 1000 may include a plurality of working stations 1100. The plurality of working stations 1100 included in one extraction module 1000 may each include three or more extraction units 1110 and may independently perform an extraction process. Among the supply station 1200, liquid handling unit 1300, container transfer unit 1400, and identification information reader 1500 included in the extraction module 1000 having multiple working stations 1100, at least one may be configured to operate for all of the plurality of working stations 1100.

[0203] Specifically, the supply station 1200 included in the extraction module 1000 having multiple working stations 1100 may be configured to provide materials 600 to all of the plurality of working stations 1100. The liquid handling unit 1300 included in the extraction module 1000 having multiple working stations 1100 may be configured to access each of the plurality of working stations 1100. The container transfer unit 1400 included in the extraction module 1000 having multiple working stations 1100 may be configured to transfer sample containers 500 located at each of the plurality of working stations 1100 between the extraction units 1110 of the plurality of working stations 1100. The identification information reader 1500 included in the extraction module 1000 having multiple working stations 1100 may be configured to read identification information of all sample containers 500 loaded to the plurality of working stations 1100.

[0204]

[0205] Extraction Subsystem

[0206] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure includes an extraction subsystem. The extraction subsystem receives sample containers and materials and performs nucleic acid extraction. The extraction subsystem is a collective concept of extraction modules. A single extraction module may constitute the extraction subsystem, or multiple extraction modules may together constitute the extraction subsystem.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment, the extraction subsystem may include a plurality of extraction modules. For example, FIG. 11 illustrates four extraction modules 1000a to 1000d included in the extraction subsystem 100; however, the number of extraction modules 1000 included in the extraction subsystem 100 is not particularly limited and may vary as needed.

[0208] In one embodiment, the plurality of extraction modules 1000 may be configured to perform different extraction protocols. The controller 400 may independently control each of the extraction modules 1000a to 1000d. The controller 400 may control the system such that sample containers 500 containing different types of samples are assigned to the extraction modules 1000a to 1000d, respectively, and may control each extraction module 1000a to 1000d to perform a nucleic acid extraction process for the assigned sample containers 500 according to its corresponding extraction protocols.

[0209] In one embodiment, the controller 400 may control the system such that materials corresponding to extraction protocols performed in the plurality of extraction modules are supplied to each extraction module. The extraction protocol may vary depending on the sample type, and the extraction reagents used in the extraction protocol may also vary depending on the sample type. Referring to FIG. 11, the controller 400 receives information about samples from the extraction modules 1000a to 1000d and may control the storage subsystem 200 so that extraction reagents 620 required for each extraction module are prepared. The controller 400 may also control the transfer subsystem 300 to deliver the extraction reagents 620 prepared for each of the extraction modules 1000a to 1000d to the respective extraction modules.

[0210] In one embodiment, the controller 400 may determine, based on identification information of a sample container 500, an extraction module 1000 in which nucleic acid extraction for the sample container 500 is to be performed, and may control the sample container 500 to be transferred to the determined extraction module 1000. Since multiple extraction modules 1000 performing extraction processes for different samples may respectively have different configurations of extraction reagents stored in their supply stations 1200, it is efficient for a new sample container 500 received in the system to be transferred to an extraction module 1000 capable of performing nucleic acid extraction for the corresponding sample without replacing extraction reagents stored in the supply station 1200. Referring to FIG. 10, a sample transfer module 3200 may be configured to access all of the plurality of extraction modules 1000a to 1000c. Accordingly, the controller 400 may control the sample transfer module 3200 to transfer the sample container 500 to the determined extraction module 1000.

[0211] In one embodiment, the extraction subsystem may be configured to allow an additional extraction module to be added without changing other extraction modules already included in the extraction subsystem. Due to the modular design of the extraction module 1000 of the present disclosure, the extraction subsystem can be flexibly expanded and adjusted to accommodate various testing environments. For example, the extraction subsystem 100 may include two or more extraction modules 1000. In such cases, since each extraction module 1000 is independently controlled and operated, the configuration of extraction units included in each extraction module 1000 may differ. Moreover, since the extraction modules 1000 of the present disclosure have a modular structure, additional installation or replacement of extraction modules 1000 can be performed without modification of other devices constituting the extraction subsystem.

[0212] In one embodiment, the extraction subsystem 100 of the present disclosure may be configured such that a component included in one of the plurality of extraction modules 1000 can access another extraction module 1000. For example, the liquid handling unit 1300 included in one of the plurality of extraction modules 1000 may be configured to access another extraction module 1000. Specifically, the liquid handling unit 1300 included in one extraction module 1000 may access a sample container mounted on an extraction unit 1110 of another extraction module 1000 to aspirate and discard waste liquid or dispense a new reagent. Alternatively, the container transfer unit 1400 included in one of the plurality of extraction modules 1000 may be configured to access another extraction module 1000. Specifically, the container transfer unit 1400 included in one extraction module 1000 may access a sample container mounted on an extraction unit 1110 of another extraction module 1000 and transfer it to another extraction unit 1110. Consequently, by sharing functional units between extraction modules 1000, the system can operate more efficiently.

[0213]

[0214] Storage Subsystem

[0215] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system 10 of the present disclosure may include a storage subsystem 200 configured to supply materials for nucleic acid extraction. The storage subsystem 200 may be configured to supply one or more materials required for nucleic acid extraction.

[0216] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a storage subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a storage subsystem configured to supply materials to each extraction module in an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system having a plurality of extraction modules according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0217] The storage subsystem 200 stores materials 600 and supplies them to the extraction subsystem 100. In one embodiment, the materials 600 may include consumables 610 or extraction reagents 620. The consumables 610 may include pipette tips and nucleic acid tubes. The extraction reagents 620 may include at least one selected from the group consisting of proteinase K, an internal control, a lysis buffer, magnetic beads, a binding buffer, a first wash buffer, a second wash buffer, a third wash buffer, and an elution buffer.

[0218] In one embodiment, the storage subsystem 200 may selectively supply materials for nucleic acid extraction based on the sample container 500. The types of extraction reagents used may vary depending on the type of sample contained in the sample container or the type of target to be extracted, and the types of consumables used may also vary. The sample container may be assigned identification information such as a barcode, 2D code, or RFID. When the sample container is loaded, the controller 400 may read the identification information assigned to the loaded sample container and determines the materials to be used for the sample contained in the sample container. Based on the determination, the storage subsystem 200 selectively supplies, among the materials it holds, the materials required for nucleic acid extraction for the sample contained in the sample container. The selective supply of materials for nucleic acid extraction depending on the sample container 500 by the storage subsystem 200 may be performed by positioning the selected materials in a pickup area 220.

[0219] In one embodiment, the storage subsystem 200 may include a storage area 210 for storing the materials 600 and a pickup area 220 for delivering the materials 600 to the transfer subsystem 300. The storage area 210 is an area for storing the materials 600. The storage area 210 may be configured to store the consumables 610 and extraction reagents 620 used in the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure. The consumables and extraction reagents may be stored in separate spaces, since optimal storage conditions for each are different. For this purpose, in one embodiment, the storage area 210 may include two or more material storage modules 2100. Referring to FIG. 7, a first material storage module 2100a may store consumables 610, and a second material storage module 2100b may store extraction reagents 620.

[0220] In addition, among the extraction reagents 620, some may require refrigeration or freezing, whereas others can be stored at room temperature. Therefore, in one embodiment, the material storage module 2100 may include two or more material storage units 2110. The two or more material storage units 2110 may store different types of materials. The two or more material storage units 2110 may have independently controlled temperatures. For example, a first extraction reagent 620a may be a reagent stored at room temperature, and a second extraction reagent 620b may be a reagent stored under refrigeration. In this case, the first material storage unit 2110a may be configured to maintain room temperature, and the second material storage unit 2110b may be configured to maintain a temperature of approximately 4℃.

[0221] The storage subsystem 200 may include the storage area 210 for storing materials 600 and the pickup area 220 for delivering materials 600 to the transfer subsystem 300. The pickup area 220 is an area where materials 600 to be transferred to the extraction subsystem 100 are positioned. A material transfer module 3100 of the transfer subsystem 300 picks up the materials 600 from the pickup area 220 and provides them to the supply station 1200 of the extraction module.

[0222] When the extraction subsystem 100 includes a plurality of extraction modules 1000, the storage subsystem 200 may include a single pickup area 220, and the transfer subsystem 300 may be configured to transfer the materials 600 to each of the plurality of extraction modules 1000. Alternatively, the storage subsystem 200 may include a plurality of pickup areas 220 respectively corresponding to the plurality of extraction modules 1000. Referring to FIG. 8, when the extraction subsystem 100 includes first through third extraction modules 1000a to 1000c, the storage subsystem 200 may include first through third pickup areas 220a to 220c corresponding to the extraction modules 1000a to 1000c, respectively, to provide the consumables 610 and extraction reagents 620 required by the supply stations 1200a to 1200c of each extraction module. Since sufficient space is needed to store various materials 600, the storage area 210 may be located apart from the extraction modules 1000 or implemented in a space positioned below or above the extraction modules 1000. Therefore, when the pickup areas 220a to 220c are located adjacent to the supply stations 1200a to 1200c of the respective extraction modules 1000a to 1000c, the materials 600 required for each extraction module 1000 may be supplied rapidly.

[0223]

[0224] Transfer Subsystem

[0225] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a material transfer module of a transfer subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sample transfer module of a transfer subsystem according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an individual nucleic acid extraction automation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0226] The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of the present disclosure may include a transfer subsystem 300. The transfer subsystem 300 transfers sample containers 500 and materials 600 to the extraction subsystem 100.

[0227] The transfer subsystem 300 may include a material transfer module 3100 and a sample transfer module 3200. The material transfer module 3100 may transfer the materials 600 from the storage subsystem 200 to a supply station 1200 of an extraction module 1000. The sample transfer module 3200 may be configured to provide sample containers 500 to the extraction module 1000 (see FIG. 1).

[0228] In one embodiment, the extraction subsystem may include two or more extraction modules, the transfer subsystem may include two or more material transfer modules, wherein one of the material transfer modules may be assigned to each extraction module. Referring to FIG. 9, the material transfer module 3100 may include two or more material transfer units 3110 that transfer materials from the pickup area 220 of the storage subsystem 200 to the supply station 1200 of the extraction module 1000. The two or more material transfer units 3110a and 3110b may transfer different types of materials. Although consumables 610 and extraction reagents 620 may be transferred by the same device, in some cases different transfer devices may be required. For example, compared with consumables 610, extraction reagents 620 may be heavier and, when provided as a cartridge containing multiple reagents, may have a larger volume and therefore require careful transfer. The material transfer module 3100 may include a first material transfer unit 3110a for transferring consumables 610 and a second material transfer unit 3110b for transferring extraction reagents 620. The material transfer module 3100 may include a gripper, a lift, or an articulated robotic arm.

[0229] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 10, the sample transfer module 3200 provides sample containers 500 to the working station 1100 of the extraction module 1000. The provided sample container may then be transferred by a container transfer unit 1400 of the extraction module 1000 to extraction units of the working station 1100. A single sample transfer module 3200 may deliver multiple sample containers 500 to the respective extraction modules 1000a to 1000c.

[0230] The sample transfer module 3200 may include a carrier. The carrier is a mechanism that continuously transports items using power and may include a lift and a conveyor. The lift may transport sample containers vertically, and the conveyor may transport sample containers horizontally or along an incline. The carrier may be a conveyor or a combination of a conveyor and a lift. The sample container may be transported by the sample transfer module 3200 while being accommodated in a pallet. The pallet may be a custom pallet that holds the sample container. Transport using the pallet allows accurate positioning.

[0231] In one embodiment, the transfer subsystem 300 may include an aspiration deck 3320 configured such that a pipetting unit 1300 of the extraction module 1000 can aspirate a sample from a primary sample container 510, and a cap master unit 3310 configured to decap and recap the primary sample container 510.

[0232] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the aspiration deck 3320 and the cap master unit 3310 of the transfer subsystem 300 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0233] Referring to FIG. 14, a primary sample container 510a supplied via a primary sample transfer module 3300 is moved to the aspiration deck 3320 and positioned at a designated location. The movement may be performed by, for example, a pusher or a gripper. The aspiration deck 3320 may include three designated sites. A first site may be a position where the cap master unit 3310 removes a cap from a primary sample container 510b. When the primary sample container 510a from the primary sample transfer module 3300 is moved to the aspiration deck 3320 and positioned at the first site, the cap master unit 3310a positioned at the first site may remove the cap from the primary sample container 510b. The cap master unit 3310a holding the removed cap may then move to a position 3310b where the cap can be reattached to the primary sample container. The decapped primary sample container 510b may be moved to a second site 3320a on the aspiration deck 3320. The second site 3320a may be a position where the pipetting unit 1300 of the extraction module 1000 can aspirate a sample from the primary sample container. When the decapped primary sample container 510b arrives at the second site, the pipetting unit 1300 of the extraction module 1000 aspirates a predetermined amount of the sample from the primary sample container 510, returns to the extraction module 1000, dispenses the sample into a sample container 500, and proceeds with the nucleic acid extraction process. After sample aspiration is completed, the primary sample container may move to a third site. The third site may be a position where the cap master unit 3310 can attach the cap to a primary sample container 510c. The primary sample container 510c positioned at the third site, shown in broken lines in FIG. 14, is the primary sample container 510b that has moved after completing the process at the second site. The cap master unit 3310b may attach the cap to the primary sample container 510c located at the third site of the aspiration deck 3320. The cap master unit 3310b shown in broken lines in FIG. 14, is the cap master unit 3310a that removed the cap from the primary sample container 510b and then moved.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 1, the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system 10 may include a waste collection unit 700. The waste collection unit 700 may be an area where materials 600 are discarded after use. The waste collection unit 700 may include a liquid waste storage 710 and a solid waste storage 720. The liquid waste storage 710 may be where used extraction reagents 620 are discarded, and the solid waste storage 720 may be where consumables 610 are discarded. In one embodiment, the liquid waste storage 710 and the solid waste storage 720 may include sliding doors that open and close their openings. The sliding doors seal the interiors of the liquid waste storage 710 and the solid waste storage 720 to block potential contamination. For example, the sliding doors may open when the system of the present disclosure is started and close when it is shut down.

[0235] In one embodiment, the individual nucleic acid extraction automation system may further include a dispensing device 800. FIG. 13 illustrates a dispensing device 800 according to one embodiment. The dispensing device 800 is configured to dispense a predetermined amount of sample from a primary sample container 510 to a sample container 500.

[0236] The dispensing device 800 may aspirate a predetermined amount of a sample from a primary sample container 510 supplied via the primary sample transfer module 3300 and dispense the sample into a sample container 500 supplied via the sample transfer module 3200.

[0237] The dispensing device 800 may include a cap master unit 810. The cap master unit 810 is a device configured to remove a cap from a capped container, store the cap, and then reattach the cap to the container. In the dispensing device 800, the cap master unit 810 may remove a cap from a primary sample container 510-1 at a predetermined first position. The cap master unit 810 may hold the removed cap and then reattach the cap to the decapped primary sample container 510-3 that has arrived at a predetermined second position.

[0238] The dispensing device 800 may include a dispensing pipette unit 820. The dispensing pipette unit 820 is configured to aspirate a predetermined amount of a sample from a primary sample container and dispense it into a sample container 500. A primary sample container 510-1 with its cap removed at the predetermined first position may move to a predetermined third position. When the primary sample container 510-2 arrives at the predetermined third position, the dispensing pipette unit 820 may aspirate a predetermined amount of the sample and dispenses it into the sample container 500.

[0239] The dispensing pipette unit 820 may include a pipette head and a pipette body, and may further include a motion unit. The motion unit may control movement of the pipette head and the pipette body. Specifically, the motion unit may support at least three types of movements among X, Y, Z directional linear movements and rotational movement to realize precise motion of the pipette unit 820. Alternatively, the motion unit may be an articulated robotic arm. The pipette head may be configured to mount a pipette tip and aspirate and dispense liquid, and may be coupled to the pipette body to be movable in a vertical direction. The pipette body transmits power to and controls the pipette head.

[0240] The dispensing device 800 may include an identification information reader 830. The identification information reader 830 may be arranged to read, respectively, identification information of the primary sample container 510-2 and identification information of the sample container 500 into which the sample from the primary sample container 510-2 has been dispensed. Sample information linked to the primary sample container 510-2 may be associated with the identification information of the sample container 500 into which the sample of the primary sample container 510-2 has been dispensed. The identification information reader 830 may be a barcode reader, a QR-code reader, a camera for recognizing identification information, or an RFID reader.

[0241] When such a dispensing device 800 is additionally provided, the aspiration deck 3320 and the cap master unit 3310 of the transfer subsystem 300 described above may not need to be provided in a number equal to the number of extraction modules 1000.

[0242]

[0243] Operation Method

[0244] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system is provided. The system includes an extraction module including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, wherein each of the at least three extraction units comprises at least one function selected from the group consisting of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation. The method comprising: (a) loading a first sample container to a first extraction unit of the extraction module; (b) determining an extraction protocol to be performed on the first sample container; (c) determining, based on the determined extraction protocol, an extraction protocol step to be performed by each of the at least three extraction units; (d) performing a first extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the first extraction unit; (e) transferring the first sample container to a second extraction unit and performing a second extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the second extraction unit; and (f) loading a second sample container to the first extraction unit of the extraction module.

[0245] The continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system (hereinafter, "the system") includes an extraction module configured to perform nucleic acid extraction. The extraction module includes at least three extraction units. For example, the extraction module may include 3 to 5, 3 to 7, 3 to 9, 3 to 11, or 3 to 20 extraction units. Each extraction unit may include at least one of a swirling function, a heating function, and a magnetic field generation function. The magnetic field generation function may be used, for example, for magnetic bead-based nucleic acid capture process during washing or elution. The swirling function may be used, for example, for mixing magnetic beads with a solution. The heating function may be used, for example, for a lysis operation or a drying operation. The at least three extraction units may include, for example, a first extraction unit and a second extraction unit.

[0246] As described above, an extraction protocol is a procedure that defines a sequence of process steps and operating conditions required to isolate and purify nucleic acids from a sample. An extraction protocol step is an individual process unit constituting the extraction protocol, in which a specific function (e.g., heating, swirling, magnetic field application) and corresponding operating conditions are defined, and which is defined to be executable by a single extraction unit. The extraction protocol may include, for example, a first extraction protocol step and a second extraction protocol step.

[0247] As described above, a sample container includes a body capable of accommodating a sample and a sealing structure, and may be provided with identification information such as a barcode, a 2D code, or an RFID. The system may further and optionally include a sample container transfer device, a material storage means, a waste disposal unit, and one or more sensors.

[0248] (a) loading a first sample container to a first extraction unit of the extraction module.

[0249] After reading the identification information of the first sample container, the controller may query the status of available extraction units, assigns a suitable first extraction unit, and loads the first sample container. The loading may be performed, for example, by a container transfer unit 1400 that picks up the first sample container from a sample transfer module 3200 and places it on an extraction unit 1110n (see FIG. 2). The first extraction unit is the extraction unit that performs the first extraction protocol step during the execution of the corresponding extraction protocol, and may vary depending on the sample container.

[0250] (b) determining an extraction protocol to be performed on the first sample container.

[0251] Based on the identification information of the first sample container, the controller may select or construct an appropriate extraction protocol in consideration of the type of sample contained in the first sample container and the target. For example, the types of extraction reagents and protocol parameters may vary depending on the sample type (e.g., nasopharyngeal swab, urine) or the target to be extracted (e.g., viral nucleic acids, microbial nucleic acids). The protocol may be a predefined standard protocol, or an adaptive protocol dynamically configured or modified by the controller based on sample information, reagent availability, and device status.

[0252] (c) determining, based on the determined extraction protocol, an extraction protocol step to be performed by each of the at least three extraction units.

[0253] For a single sample container, the determined extraction protocol may be executed while the sample container is sequentially transferred among a plurality of extraction units. To this end, the determined extraction protocol may be provided in a form decomposed into a plurality of extraction protocol steps. Alternatively, the controller 400 may decompose the determined extraction protocol into component steps to generate extraction protocol steps. When generating the extraction protocol steps, the controller 400 may consider the operational status of the extraction module. For example, when a large number of sample containers are to be processed by a single extraction module, the number of extraction units used for extraction may be increased to minimize the dwell time of a sample container at a given extraction unit. In a continuously loadable extraction system, the shorter the dwell time at an extraction unit, the greater the number of samples that can be processed per unit time. If some extraction units are not operating normally, the extraction protocol steps may be configured to proceed without using those extraction units.

[0254] Next, extraction units that will perform the extraction protocol steps are determined, and the extraction protocol steps are mapped to the determined extraction units. Priority may be given to extraction units capable of performing the functions required by the respective extraction protocol step. Transfer paths and waiting times for respective steps may also be considered.

[0255] In one embodiment, the extraction protocol steps may be determined such that the at least three extraction units are used once sequentially. Referring to FIG. 2, for the first sample container 500, the first extraction protocol step may be assigned to the first extraction unit 1110n, and the second to fourth extraction protocol steps may sequentially be assigned to a second extraction unit 1110o, a third extraction unit 1110p, and a fourth extraction unit 1110q. In this case, not all extraction units 1110 of the extraction module need be used, and some extraction units may remain unassigned depending on the selected extraction protocol. The expression "the at least three extraction units are used once sequentially" means, for example, that the first and third extraction protocol steps are not redundantly assigned to the same extraction unit (e.g., the first extraction unit 1110n), but rather that the first to fourth steps are respectively assigned to the first to fourth extraction units 1110n to 1110q.

[0256] When the extraction protocol steps are determined such that the at least three extraction units are used once sequentially as described above, it becomes easier to configure the system to process multiple sample containers in a continuous loading mode. That is, once the first extraction protocol step for the first sample container by the first extraction unit is completed, it is guaranteed that the first extraction unit can be assigned to the second sample container, since the first extraction unit is not reused for the first sample container. In addition, the waiting time and transfer path of the second sample container can be readily adjusted to match the timing at which the first sample container is transferred to the next extraction unit, thereby simplifying overall procedure and minimizing idle time of extraction units. As a result, two or more sample containers can be continuously processed in a pipeline within a single extraction module, thereby improving throughput and sample-processing efficiency.

[0257] (d) performing a first extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the first extraction unit.

[0258] The first extraction unit performs the first extraction protocol step on the first sample container according to the parameters included in the assigned step. The first extraction protocol step may include dispensing reagents required for the first sample container. For example, it may include dispensing magnetic beads or dispensing a binding buffer into the first sample container. To this end, the first extraction protocol step may include preparing the reagents required for the first sample container.

[0259] (e) transferring the first sample container to a second extraction unit and performing a second extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the second extraction unit.

[0260] When the first extraction protocol step for the first sample container performed by the first extraction unit is completed, the first sample container is transferred to the second extraction unit. The second extraction unit may be the extraction unit determined to perform the second extraction protocol step. The transfer may be performed by the container transfer unit 1400. The second extraction protocol step may include, for example, activating a magnetic field generation function at the second extraction unit to immobilize magnetic beads at the bottom of the sample container, removing a reaction solution, and dispensing a wash buffer. Accordingly, the second extraction protocol step may include preparing the wash buffer required for the first sample container.

[0261] (f) loading a second sample container to the first extraction unit of the extraction module.

[0262] After the first sample container is transferred to the second extraction unit, a second sample container as a new sample container is loaded to the first extraction unit, which has become vacant, and the extraction process proceeds. The second sample container may undergo the same extraction process as the first sample container, or may be processed according to an extraction protocol different from that of the first sample container. In addition, third and fourth sample containers may be sequentially introduced in the same manner, so that each sample container simultaneously performs different extraction steps at different extraction units.

[0263] According to the method of the present disclosure, by loading the second sample container to the first extraction unit in step (f), continuous loading within the same extraction module becomes possible. This is achieved by immediately reusing the first extraction unit for the initial step of the next container while the first sample container proceeds to subsequent steps at the second extraction unit and beyond. As a result, multiple sample containers are continuously processed in a pipeline manner within a single extraction module, thereby improving throughput while minimizing idle time of the module.

[0264] While the foregoing has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the following claims.

[0265] <Cross-Reference to Related Application>

[0266] The application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0158436, filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on November 8, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0267] <List of Reference Signs>

[0268] 10: individual nucleic acid extraction automation system

[0269] 100: extraction subsystem 1000: extraction module

[0270] 1100: working station 1110: extraction unit

[0271] 1111: temperature control means 1112: driving means

[0272] 1113: magnetic means 1114: container receiving part

[0273] 1120: mounting base

[0274] 1200: supply station 1210: positioning guide

[0275] 1220: mounting base 1230: cover opening / closing unit

[0276] 1240: temperature control means

[0277] 1300: liquid handling unit 1310: motion unit

[0278] 1400: container transfer unit

[0279] 1410: container holder 1420: driving unit

[0280] 1500: identification information reader

[0281] 200: storage subsystem 210: storage area

[0282] 2100: material storage module 2110: material storage unit

[0283] 220: pickup area

[0284] 300: transfer subsystem

[0285] 3100: material transfer module 3110: material transfer unit

[0286] 3200: sample transfer module 3300: primary sample transfer module

[0287] 3310: cap master unit 3320: aspiration deck

[0288] 400: controller

[0289] 500: sample container 510: primary sample container

[0290] 600: material

[0291] 610: consumable 620: extraction reagent

[0292] 621: extraction reagent cover 622: extraction reagent cartridge

[0293] 700: waste collection unit

[0294] 710: liquid waste storage 720: solid waste storage

[0295] 800: dispensing device 810: cap master unit

[0296] 820: dispensing pipette unit 830: identification information reader

[0297] 910: aspiration deck

Claims

1.A continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system comprising:(a) an extraction subsystem for receiving a sample container and a material and extracting nucleic acids;wherein the extraction subsystem comprises at least one extraction module,wherein the extraction module comprises:(a1) a working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, each of the at least three extraction units comprising at least one function selected from the group of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation,wherein each of the at least three extraction units is used once sequentially during extraction of the sample container;(a2) a liquid handling unit; and(a3) a container transfer unit configured to transfer the sample container between the extraction units, and(b) a controller, wherein the controller is configured to control the extraction subsystem such that while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress in one extraction unit among the at least three extraction units, another extraction unit receives another sample container and performs a nucleic acid extraction process for the another sample container.2.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1, wherein the extraction subsystem comprises a plurality of extraction modules.3.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 2,wherein the extraction module further comprises an additional working station including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids, and the liquid handling unit is configured to access each of the working stations in the extraction module.4.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 2,wherein the plurality of extraction modules are configured to perform different extraction protocols.5.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 2,wherein the controller is configured to determine an extraction module to perform nucleic acid extraction for the sample container based on identification information of the sample container, and to control the sample container to be transferred to the determined extraction module.6.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the controller is configured to control the container transfer unit such that, while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is being performed, the sample container is sequentially transferred to and received by two or more extraction units among the at least three extraction units.7.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 6,wherein the controller is configured to control the extraction module such that a portion of the nucleic acid extraction process is performed in an extraction unit in which the sample container is received.8.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 6,wherein the extraction module is configured to selectively perform two or more extraction protocols, and the controller is configured to determine an extraction protocol to be used in the extraction module based on a type of sample.9.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to determine, according to the determined extraction protocol, extraction units to be used for nucleic acid extraction of the sample among the at least three extraction units included in the extraction module.10.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 8,wherein the at least three extraction units comprise a multifunctional extraction unit configured to perform two or more functions.11.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 10,wherein the multifunctional extraction unit is configured to selectively perform the two or more functions.12.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 11, wherein the at least three extraction units comprise two or more of the multifunctional extraction units.13.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 12,wherein the controller is configured to select, according to the determined extraction protocol, a function to be performed by each of the two or more multifunctional extraction units included in the extraction module.14.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 10,wherein the controller is configured to control the extraction unit such that a function of the extraction unit in which the sample container is received is changed while a nucleic acid extraction process for the sample container is in progress.15.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 6,wherein the controller is configured to control functions of the at least three extraction units such that two or more extraction protocols are continuously performed in one extraction module.16.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 10,wherein the two or more functions comprise at least two functions selected from the group consisting of a heating function, a swirling function, and a magnetic field generation function.17.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the at least three extraction units include an extraction unit comprising a temperature control means configured to control a temperature of the sample container.18.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the at least three extraction units include an extraction unit comprising a driving means configured to move the sample container to swirl a solution in the sample container.19.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the at least three extraction units include an extraction unit comprising a magnetic means configured to apply magnetic force to the sample container.20.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the at least three extraction units in the working station are arranged in a first direction.21.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 20,wherein the container transfer unit is configured to move in the first direction and to transfer the sample container between the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction.22.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 20,wherein the working station comprises two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step in the nucleic acid extraction process.23.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 22,wherein the two or more extraction units configured to perform the same extraction step are arranged side by side in the first direction.24.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the extraction module further comprises a supply station configured to accommodate one or more materials.25.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 24,further comprising a storage subsystem configured to supply one or more materials for nucleic acid extraction and a transfer subsystem configured to transfer the sample container and the one or more materials to the extraction subsystem.26.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the storage subsystem is configured to selectively supply one or more materials for nucleic acid extraction according to the sample container.27.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the extraction subsystem is configured to receive the sample container and the one or more materials from the transfer subsystem and to extract nucleic acids.28.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the extraction subsystem comprises a plurality of extraction modules, and the controller is configured to control the materials corresponding to extraction protocols performed in the respective extraction modules to be provided to the respective extraction modules.29.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the working station is configured to allow addition or replacement of extraction units without modification of other extraction units included in the working station.30.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 24,wherein the liquid handling unit is configured to access the at least three extraction units of the working station and materials of the supply station.31.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 24,wherein the supply station is configured such that two or more materials are arranged in a first direction.32.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 31,wherein the supply station comprises a positioning guide for each of the two or more materials.33.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 24,wherein the supply station comprises a cover opening / closing unit for the materials.34.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 21,wherein the container transfer unit is configured to sequentially transfer the sample container once to each of the at least three extraction units arranged in the first direction while a nucleic acid extraction process for one sample container is in progress.35.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the extraction subsystem is configured to allow addition of an extraction module without modification of other extraction modules included in the extraction subsystem.36.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,further comprising a waste collection unit configured to collect waste generated after use of the materials.37.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the transfer subsystem comprises a material transfer module configured to transfer one or more materials of the storage subsystem to a supply station of the extraction module.38.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the transfer subsystem further comprises a sample transfer module configured to provide the sample container to the extraction module.39.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,further comprising a dispensing device configured to dispense a predetermined amount of sample from a primary sample container to the sample container.40.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,further comprising a transfer subsystem configured to transfer the sample container and the material to the extraction subsystem,wherein the transfer subsystem comprises an aspiration deck configured to allow the liquid handling unit to aspirate a sample from a primary sample container,and a cap master unit configured to decap and recap the primary sample container.41.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 37,wherein the extraction subsystem comprises two or more extraction modules, the transfer subsystem comprises two or more material transfer modules, and each extraction module is assigned to one of the material transfer modules.42.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 37,wherein the material transfer module comprises two or more material transfer units.43.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 42,wherein the two or more material transfer units transfer different types of materials.44.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 1,wherein the material comprises a consumable or an extraction reagent.45.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 44,wherein the extraction reagent comprises an extraction reagent cartridge including two or more reagents.46.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 25,wherein the storage subsystem comprises a storage area configured to store the materials and a pickup area for delivering the materials to the transfer subsystem.47.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 46,wherein the storage area comprises two or more material storage modules.48.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 47,wherein each material storage module comprises two or more material storage units.49.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 48,wherein the two or more material storage units store different types of materials.50.The individual nucleic acid extraction automation system of claim 48,wherein the two or more material storage units are independently temperature-controlled.51.A method for operating a continuously loadable individual nucleic acid extraction automation system,the system comprising an extraction module including at least three extraction units configured to extract nucleic acids,wherein each of the at least three extraction units comprises at least one function selected from the group consisting of swirling, heating, and magnetic field generation,the method comprising:(a) loading a first sample container to a first extraction unit of the extraction module;(b) determining an extraction protocol to be performed on the first sample container;(c) determining, based on the determined extraction protocol, an extraction protocol step to be performed by each of the at least three extraction units;(d) performing a first extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the first extraction unit;(e) transferring the first sample container to a second extraction unit and performing a second extraction protocol step on the first sample container by the second extraction unit; and(f) loading a second sample container to the first extraction unit of the extraction module.

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