Automated Sequencer Cartridge Loading via Robotic Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nucleic acid sequencing systems are cost-inefficient and require substantial human intervention for sample and library preparation, particularly in loading sequencing cartridges into sequencers, limiting automation and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising robotic arms, liquid handlers, and cloud-based or local software that automates nucleic acid sequencing workflows from sample preparation to sequencing, using a network of software applications via APIs to actuate robotic movements and liquid handling systems, enabling fully automated loading of sequencing cartridges into sequencers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual loading of sequencing cartridges is used, then human intervention is required for sample preparation and cartridge loading, but this increases operational complexity and reduces automation extent
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the robotic arm independently performs cartridge loading operations without human intervention. The robotic system serves itself by autonomously navigating, grasping, and inserting cartridges into the sequencer, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining system simplicity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of loading cartridges are replaced by an automated robotic mechanical system. The robotic arm with gripper effectors substitutes human hands, performing repetitive loading tasks through programmed mechanical movements, thereby increasing automation while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
2Productivity
If manual sample preparation and cartridge loading is performed, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but productivity and throughput are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning cartridges in accessible locations and pre-programming the robotic arm with loading sequences. This allows the system to execute high-throughput operations automatically without requiring complex real-time decision-making, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining operational simplicity through advance preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system enables continuous useful action by performing cartridge loading operations without interruption or manual intervention. The automated arm continuously grasps, moves, and inserts cartridges in sequence, eliminating idle time between operations and maximizing sequencing throughput while the automated nature simplifies the operational process.
3Extent of automation
If automated robotic arm is used for cartridge loading, then human intervention is eliminated, but the system requires precise control and coordination of multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the robotic arm for positioning, the gripper effectors for grasping, the rotary axis for orientation, and the control system for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and controlled through standardized interfaces, achieving full automation while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm system is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple operations: navigating to different cartridge locations, grasping various cartridge types, rotating to proper orientations, and inserting into different sequencer positions. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into one integrated robotic platform, achieving comprehensive automation without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for processes and systems that rely on software, bioinformatics, and robotics principles for actuating the automation of a workflow from nucleic acid extraction from a sample to sequencing without human intervention in between the aforementioned steps.