Automated Assay Compatibility Index for Concurrent Molecular Diagnostics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automated diagnostic instruments face challenges in performing multiple assays concurrently due to physical and regulatory incompatibilities, requiring manual comparison of assay protocols which is error-prone and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that assigns first- and second-level compatibility index values to assay protocols, allowing compatible protocols to be run concurrently while preventing incompatible ones, using Assay Definition Files (ADFs) and User Defined Protocols (UDPs) to manage compatibility and automate the assay process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual comparison of assay protocols is performed to determine compatibility, then compatibility assessment can be done, but it is error-prone and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic compatibility assessment by comparing assay protocol parameters against predefined compatibility criteria, eliminating the need for manual comparison. The instrument autonomously determines whether multiple assays can be performed concurrently based on parameters such as reagent compatibility, temperature requirements, and workflow conflicts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of comparing assay protocols with an automated computational system. The instrument's software automatically retrieves assay parameters, compares them against compatibility rules, and determines compatibility status, substituting human operators with an automated information processing system.
2Productivity
If multiple assays are performed concurrently to increase throughput, then productivity improves, but physical and regulatory incompatibilities may arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs compatibility assessment before scheduling concurrent assays. By evaluating assay parameters and checking for conflicts in advance, the instrument determines which assays can be safely performed together, preventing incompatibility issues before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback on assay compatibility to guide run scheduling. When compatibility issues are detected, the system notifies users and adjusts the scheduling of concurrent assays to avoid conflicts, ensuring that only compatible assays are performed together.
3Ease of operation
If automated assay processing is implemented to reduce manual labor, then ease of operation improves, but the complexity of managing multiple assay protocols increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is designed with multi-functional capability to handle diverse assay protocols through a unified automated interface. The system can retrieve parameters from different assay types, apply universal compatibility criteria, and manage multiple protocols through a single automated workflow, reducing the complexity burden on users.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and systems for performing an automated assay, and particularly to performing an assay on a plurality of samples on an automated instrument.