Analyzer Routing for Sample Measurement Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In sample processing systems, analyzers dedicated for review measurements often operate intermittently due to low review measurement rates, leading to underutilization of their sample measurement capabilities, as they are separate from primary measurement analyzers that handle most of the workload.
Innovation Solution
A system with a transportation apparatus and controllers that determine the destination of sample containers between primary and review measurement analyzers, allowing the same secondary analyzer to handle both types of measurements, optimizing utilization by routing samples based on measurement type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If an analyzer is dedicated for review measurement, then review measurement can be rapidly conducted, but the analyzer operates intermittently and its measurement capability is underutilized
Solution Approach 1:
The analyzer is configured to perform both primary measurement and review measurement functions. The control unit determines the measurement type and routes samples accordingly, allowing a single analyzer to serve multiple purposes and maintain continuous operation rather than operating intermittently as a dedicated review analyzer would
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate analyzers are used for primary and review measurements, then review measurement can be rapidly conducted when needed, but the primary measurement workload concentrates on one analyzer while the review analyzer remains underutilized
Solution Approach 1:
One analyzer is configured to handle both primary and review measurements, while another analyzer handles only primary measurements. This multi-functional configuration allows flexible adaptation to different measurement types while maintaining high utilization rates for both analyzers through intelligent sample routing based on measurement type
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement workload is segmented by type: one analyzer is assigned to handle both primary and review measurements, while another analyzer handles only primary measurements. This segmentation allows optimal distribution of workloads and prevents concentration of all primary measurement workload on a single analyzer
Data Source
AI summary
A sample processing system is disclosed that comprises: a transportation apparatus configured to convey a sample container; a first analyzer, arranged along the transportation apparatus, configured to measure a sample accommodated in a sample container conveyed by the transportation apparatus; a second analyzer, arranged along the transportation apparatus, configured to measure a sample accommodated in a sample container conveyed by the transportation apparatus; and a transportation controller configured to determine an analyzer to which a sample container is conveyed, and to control the transportation apparatus to convey the sample container to the determined analyzer, wherein: the first analyzer is configured to conduct primary measurement; and the second analyzer is configured to conduct both primary measurement and review measurement.