Automated Colony Sampling for Shared MALDI Identification and AST
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preparing samples for MALDI-TOF MS analysis of microorganisms are inefficient and prone to discrepancies due to manual handling, leading to increased processing time and potential for inconsistent results, as multiple colony picks are required for different tests.
Innovation Solution
An automated method and system for locating and selecting a colony of microorganisms, preparing a suspension, and performing both MALDI identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) by using a fully integrated apparatus with automated pick tools, turbidity measurement, and controlled dispensing of samples onto target plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual colony picking and sample preparation is performed, then flexibility in handling samples is maintained, but processing time increases and result consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service through automated colony detection, selection, and sample preparation. The imaging system automatically identifies colonies, the robotic arm automatically picks colonies and transfers them to suspension tubes, and the system automatically manages the entire workflow without manual intervention, thereby eliminating variability in manual handling and reducing processing time
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with an automated robotic system. The robotic arm with precision positioning replaces manual colony picking, and automated dispensing systems replace manual sample transfer. This substitution eliminates human error and variability, ensuring consistent sample preparation while reducing processing time
2Quantity of substance
If multiple colony picks are required for different tests, then sufficient sample material is obtained for each test, but processing time increases and sample consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by preparing a standardized suspension with known concentration before testing. The automated system creates a master suspension that can be aliquoted for multiple tests, ensuring that sufficient and consistent sample material is available for both MALDI identification and AST without requiring multiple separate colony picks
Solution Approach 2:
The automated suspension preparation system serves multiple functions: it prepares samples for MALDI identification, prepares samples for AST, and maintains consistent sample material across both tests. The single automated pickup and suspension creation process replaces multiple separate manual picks, providing universal sample preparation for different test types
3Manufacturing precision
If manual sample preparation is used, then adaptability to different sample types is maintained, but manufacturing precision and reproducibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls and standardizes critical parameters including colony selection criteria, pickup depth, suspension volume, and concentration. By automatically adjusting these parameters based on programmed settings rather than manual judgment, the system achieves high precision and reproducibility in sample preparation while managing complexity through digital control
4Productivity
If automated colony selection and sample preparation is implemented, then processing time is reduced and consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a single integrated platform: colony imaging and detection, robotic positioning and pickup, suspension preparation, and sample dispensing are combined in one automated workflow. This consolidation achieves high productivity while managing complexity by integrating rather than multiplying separate devices
Data Source
AI summary
A method and automated apparatus for locating and selecting a colony of microorganisms on a culture dish and subjecting the obtained sample to a plurality of downstream tests including a test to identify the microorganism and a test to identify the susceptibility of the microorganism to antibiotics. The method includes the automated steps of locating and selecting a colony of microorganisms on a culture dish; obtaining a sample of the selected colony of microorganisms; preparing a suspension of a sample of microorganisms automatically by submerging the pick tool with the sample in a suspension, after which the pick tool is vibrated in at least the vertical direction to release the sample from the pick tool in the suspension. The turbidity of the suspension is monitored to ensure that the concentration of microorganism in suspension is sufficient so that the suspension is used a source for sample for both identification and antibiotic susceptibility of the microorganisms in the sample. The apparatus and system optionally provide for downstream processing of samples prepared for antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST). Such apparatus includes further processing after inoculation of an AST panel for the AST test. Such further processing includes capping and transferring inoculated panels to AST instrument.