Analytical Instrument Sequence Workflow Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual creation of sequences for analytical measurement instruments is time-consuming and error-prone, and existing solutions lack built-in controls for ensuring compatibility and instrument specificity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for defining and managing sequences for analytical laboratory instruments through user inputs and graphical user interfaces, which include workflow parameters, rules, and lifecycle states, allowing for automatic sequence generation and updates, while ensuring instrument specificity and compliance with regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sequences are manually created in a table by appending injections and setting parameters, then flexibility and control over sequence parameters are improved, but time consumption and error rate increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating sequence templates in advance that contain pre-configured parameters, methods, and injection settings. These templates are prepared beforehand and can be automatically applied to generate sequences, eliminating the need to manually set each parameter when creating new sequences. The template-based approach allows users to define standard sequences once and reuse them multiple times, significantly reducing time consumption while maintaining parameter control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sequences are manually created with repeated parameter entry, then customization capability is improved, but error rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by enabling users to create sequence templates once and then copy them to generate multiple sequences. The copying mechanism preserves all parameter settings, method associations, and injection configurations from the original template. This eliminates manual re-entry of parameters, reducing errors while maintaining full customization capability through template selection and modification options.
3Productivity
If sequence templates are copied to new locations, then reusability is improved, but control over copying location and modification prevention is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a structured template management system that provides controlled copying mechanisms. When templates are copied, the system automatically manages the copying process, tracks template usage, and maintains associations between templates and generated sequences. The feedback mechanism includes user interface elements that display template information, copying status, and modification history, enabling users to monitor and control template reusability without complex manual tracking.
4Ease of operation
If parameters are entered manually without built-in controls, then ease of entry is improved, but compatibility and instrument specificity control are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies intermediary by introducing sequence templates as a mediating layer between user input and actual sequence execution. The templates act as intermediaries that enforce compatibility rules, validate parameter combinations, and ensure instrument specificity. When users work with templates, the system automatically checks for compatibility between methods, parameters, and target instruments, preventing errors before they occur while maintaining ease of use through template-based workflows.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and GUIs for defining a sequence of analyzes for an analytical instrument using a workflow are described. A method includes receiving user inputs including workflow parameters for defining the sequence, and automatically defining the sequence for the analytical instrument based on the workflow parameters, including creating rules for the sequence. The rules are persistent for subsequent use of the sequence. The rules are defined by the user, e.g., an administrator, who creates or edits the workflow. The administrator can leave some choices available to operators who run the workflow, or can lock selections down.