Aliquotter Module Loop Architecture for Sample Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical laboratory systems are inefficient due to manual operation and slow processing of samples, particularly in aliquotting processes, which delays analysis and requires manual transfer of secondary sample tubes, leading to increased time and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular laboratory system with an aliquotter module featuring a track with loops for primary and secondary sample containers and a pipettor that aspirates and dispenses aliquots, allowing secondary containers to leave the module before primary containers, thereby streamlining the sample processing and reducing manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional aliquotter systems use the main transport system for both primary and secondary sample tubes, then the system structure is simplified, but the processing speed decreases and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the transport system into separate loops: a first loop for secondary sample tubes and a second loop for primary sample containers. This segmentation allows independent movement and processing of each tube type, eliminating the need for manual intervention and enabling continuous automated operation, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplified structure and processing speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-loop transport architecture where secondary tubes travel on a first loop and primary containers on a second loop. This dimensional separation in the transport workflow allows simultaneous processing without interference, improving productivity while maintaining structural organization.
2Area of stationary object
If secondary sample tubes are positioned directly behind primary tube on conveyance system, then the system layout is compact, but the secondary tubes are blocked and cannot leave until aliquotting is complete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the transport paths for primary and secondary tubes into distinct loops. Secondary tubes on the first loop can be dispensed and exit the module independently, while primary containers continue on the second loop. This eliminates the blocking issue and allows parallel processing, reducing analysis delay while maintaining compact layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary dispensing position where secondary tubes are transferred from the primary container to the output. This intermediary step allows secondary tubes to leave the aliquotter module before the primary container completes its cycle, eliminating the time delay while preserving space efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If manual transfer of secondary sample tubes is required, then the system is easier to operate, but the time for sample analysis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated dispensing mechanism that transfers secondary tubes from primary containers to the output without manual intervention. The system serves itself by automatically positioning, aspirating, and dispensing tubes through the separated loop architecture, eliminating manual transfer steps while reducing analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous automated operation through separate loops where secondary tubes can be dispensed and removed while primary containers continue cycling. This eliminates interruptions and manual transfer delays, maintaining ease of operation through automation while continuously processing samples without time loss.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances speed, accuracy, and efficiency by enabling continuous processing of samples, minimizing contamination, and optimizing sample throughput, while accommodating various sample types and analyzer systems.
Implementation Method 1
a pipettor to aspirate a first aliquot volume of a sample in a primary sample container and dispense the first aliquot volume of the sample in a secondary sample container
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed. The system includes an aliquotter module. The aliquotter module includes a track including: a travel lane; a first loop; and a second loop configured to transport sample carriers with primary sample containers. The aliquotter module can further include a pipettor that can aspirate a first aliquot volume of a sample in a primary sample container located in an aspiration position and dispense the first aliquot volume of the sample in a secondary sample container located in a dispensing position. The aliquotter module can cause the secondary sample container to leave the aliquotter module before the primary sample container.