Automated Storage Modules for Diagnostic Analyzer Liquid Replenishment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic analyzers require significant operator time for loading and unloading reagents, calibrators, and controls, as they have limited onboard storage and require manual replenishment, leading to inefficiencies and delays in laboratory workflows.
Innovation Solution
Automated storage modules that provide seamless storage, transportation, and replenishment of carriers containing reagents, calibrators, and controls, using a common form factor for carriers and a carousel robot to manage multiple types of carriers, reducing the need for manual intervention and enabling continuous supply to analyzers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual loading and unloading of reagents and calibrators is used, then operator control and flexibility are maintained, but operator time and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated storage modules that automatically replenish reagents and calibrators to the analyzer without operator intervention. The robotic arm transfers carriers between storage modules and the analyzer, and the system monitors and manages replenishment autonomously based on carrier status detection.
Solution Approach 2:
A robotic arm acts as an intermediary between storage modules and the analyzer, performing the physical transfer of carriers. This intermediary mechanism automates the replenishment process while allowing the system to maintain flexibility in managing different types of carriers and reagents.
2Productivity
If limited onboard storage is used in the analyzer, then the analyzer structure remains compact, but frequent manual replenishment is required causing workflow delays
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into multiple automated storage modules, each capable of holding multiple carriers. This segmentation allows the system to maintain a larger total storage capacity while keeping individual module access times short, enabling continuous workflow without replenishment delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-storing multiple carriers of reagents and calibrators in the automated storage modules before they are needed. The robotic system is ready to immediately transfer carriers when the analyzer requires replenishment, eliminating workflow interruptions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of carriers are stored manually, then different reagent types can be accommodated, but the complexity of tracking and managing carriers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm and storage module design incorporate universal features that can handle multiple types of carriers through a common interface. The system uses standardized carrier formats with consistent mechanical features, allowing one robotic mechanism to serve multiple functions for different reagent and calibrator carriers without increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through sensors that automatically detect and track carrier status, types, and locations within the storage modules. This feedback mechanism provides the control system with real-time information about carrier inventory and conditions, automating the tracking and management tasks that would otherwise be complex manual processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Example automated storage modules for analyzer liquids are described herein. An example apparatus includes a refrigerated storage module having a plurality of shelves (to store a plurality of carriers) and a loading bay having an array of slots to receive one or more of the carriers. The loading bay is accessible by a user for manual loading or unloading of the carriers. The example apparatus includes a first carrier transporter coupled to the storage module to transfer the carriers between the shelves and a first transfer location and a second carrier transporter movable along a track connecting the storage module to an automated diagnostic analyzer. The second carrier transporter is to transfer a first carrier between the first transfer location and a slot in the loading bay and a second carrier between the first transfer location and a second transfer location accessible by the automated diagnostic analyzer.