Automated Assay System Consumable Loading and Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated assay systems face challenges in achieving reproducible results due to human or machine errors during assay preparation, consumable loading, and during the assay run, as well as variations in sample concentration and evaporation issues.
Innovation Solution
The automated assay system includes a processor for accessing information about required assay components, a loading cart with a mobile computing device for guiding the placement of components, and a waste storage unit with sensors for managing waste. Additionally, the system features a robotic subsystem for transporting consumables and a plate washer training method using shims and training plates to ensure precise alignment of aspiration tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated assay systems are used to improve productivity, then assay throughput increases, but human or machine errors during consumable loading and preparation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-aligning features on consumables (such as magnetic alignment features or mechanical guides) that automatically position consumables in the correct locations during loading, eliminating the need for manual alignment and reducing loading errors without requiring complex automated positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and detection mechanisms that verify consumable placement and provide real-time feedback on alignment status, allowing the system to detect and correct positioning errors automatically, thereby maintaining high reliability during automated high-throughput operation
2Device complexity
If manual consumable loading is used to maintain simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but reproducibility and precision of assay preparation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Consumables are designed with built-in alignment features such as magnetic elements, mechanical guides, or geometric fitments that automatically align and position the consumable in the correct location during loading, achieving precise placement without complex automated mechanisms or manual skill
Solution Approach 2:
The loading system is divided into modular components with dedicated alignment and positioning elements for each consumable type, allowing simple individual components to work together to achieve precise overall placement without requiring a complex integrated system
3Ease of manufacture
If consumables are loaded without standardized alignment features, then consumable design simplicity is maintained, but alignment precision and assay reproducibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The consumables incorporate self-aligning features such as magnetic alignment marks, mechanical guides, or geometric interlocking elements that automatically ensure precise alignment during loading, achieving high alignment precision without complicating consumable manufacturing or design
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment features utilize physical parameters such as magnetic field strength, geometric tolerances, or mechanical clearance dimensions that are optimized to provide automatic alignment within simple consumable designs, achieving precise alignment through carefully controlled physical parameters rather than complex mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an automated assay system adapted to receive consumables in the conduct of an assay. The assay system includes at least one of a loading cart, a door support system, a waste storage unit, and a robotic subsystem. The loading cart is configured to organize and transport consumables necessary for the performance of the assay system. The door support system is configured to maintain stability of doors of the automated assay system. The waste storage unit is configured to provide convenient disposal of consumables associated with the automated assay system. The robotic subsystem is configured to transport consumables within the automated assay system.