Automated Analytical System Manual Sample Rack Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analytical systems lack a balanced approach for mid-throughput biological sample processing, combining high throughput with flexibility and the ability to handle mixed batches and prioritize urgent samples, which is not adequately addressed by existing high-throughput or low-throughput systems.
Innovation Solution
An automated analytical system that includes a method for manually introducing sample racks into a receiving bay with a reader for focusing and detecting features, a system for binding particle isolation using a shaker with a bayonet lock, a transparent window for manual intervention, and a thermal cycler for incubating samples, along with a flexible pipet tip rack and valve monitoring system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high-throughput automated systems are used, then processing speed and productivity are improved, but flexibility and ease of manual intervention are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic positioning elements that can be automatically positioned or manually adjusted to different locations along the sample rack lane. This allows the system to adapt between fully automated operation (positioning elements at automated locations) and manual intervention modes (positioning elements at manual access locations), resolving the contradiction between productivity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving bay is designed with multiple types of positioning elements (automatically positionable and manually adjustable) that serve dual functions: enabling high-speed automated sample rack positioning while also allowing manual intervention and adjustment. This multi-functionality allows the same system to operate in both high-throughput and flexible modes as needed.
2Ease of operation
If manual intervention options are provided, then flexibility and ease of operation are improved, but processing time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning elements act as intermediaries between the automated positioning system and manual intervention. They provide a mechanical interface that allows operators to easily insert and position sample racks manually when needed, while still being compatible with automated positioning mechanisms, thus maintaining ease of operation without significantly impacting processing time.
3Productivity
If automated positioning systems are used, then processing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving bay is segmented into multiple lanes, each with its own positioning elements. This segmentation allows the automated positioning system to operate independently on each lane, simplifying the control architecture while maintaining high processing efficiency. Each lane can be managed separately, reducing the overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for introducing a sample rack holding a plurality of sample receptacles into a receiving bay in a housing of an automated analytical system is disclosed. The method is carried out by manually moving the sample rack from a loading position towards a processing position along a lane in the receiving bay, pausing the movement when the rack reaches a focusing position, moving a reader to focuse onto the lane, resuming the movement of the sample rack and detecting features of the sample rack during the movement, positioning, detecting, and locking the sample rack in the processing position, and processing the content of the sample receptacles.