Automated Biological Assay Orchestration for Batch Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pre-analytical and analyzer instruments require significant technician involvement, are prone to operator error, and lack integration, leading to inefficiencies in sample processing and analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system architecture that coordinates automated sample processing among multiple analysis devices using an orchestration computing device, minimizing operator intervention by optimizing sample batching, resource allocation, and instrument integration based on real-time data from laboratory information systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated analyzer instruments are used to perform multistep processes, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: pre-analytical instruments for sample preparation, analyzer instruments for testing, and an orchestration core for coordination. Each module operates independently but is integrated through standardized communication protocols, allowing high throughput while managing complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
An orchestration core computing device acts as an intermediary between pre-analytical and analyzer instruments. This mediator receives sample information, determines optimal processing sequences, coordinates resource allocation, and manages data flow between instruments, thereby enabling automated high-throughput processing without overwhelming system complexity
2Ease of operation
If pre-analytical instruments automatically transfer samples, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of time increases due to manual pairing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Sample containers are pre-associated with identification codes and metadata before being loaded into the system. The orchestration core pre-retrieves assay instructions and prepares processing sequences in advance, so when samples are automatically transferred, all necessary information is already matched and ready, eliminating manual pairing time
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of sample identification information and assay instructions that are stored and referenced by the orchestration core. These digital copies enable automatic matching and retrieval of processing parameters without requiring physical manual pairing or human intervention to match samples with their test protocols
3Reliability
If technicians manually transfer samples between instruments, then reliability is improved through direct control, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated sample transfer where the pre-analytical instrument automatically moves prepared samples to the analyzer instrument without technician intervention. The orchestration core coordinates this transfer by determining optimal sequences and allocating resources, achieving both high reliability through controlled automation and high productivity by eliminating manual handling time
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the orchestration core continuously monitors instrument status, sample processing progress, and resource availability. This real-time feedback enables dynamic adjustment of processing sequences and resource allocation, ensuring reliable sample transfer coordination while maximizing throughput by optimizing the flow between instruments
4Productivity
If continuous stream processing is used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to batch coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts processing sequences based on real-time instrument availability, sample priorities, and resource constraints. The orchestration core continuously optimizes the processing order to maintain continuous throughput while adapting to changing conditions, managing batch coordination complexity through flexible dynamic scheduling rather than rigid fixed sequences
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes processing parameters such as batch size, processing speed, and instrument allocation based on current system state and sample characteristics. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system maintains continuous productive processing while managing complexity through parameter optimization rather than complex fixed batch management protocols
Data Source
AI summary
An automated laboratory system for processing biological samples in a batch type manner is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system may receive assay instructions for biological samples processing among a plurality of devices. The devices may include a pre-analytical instrument and one or more analysis systems. The system may include an orchestration core application for determining an order of performance for the assays ordered for the samples.