Clot Carryout Detection via Dual Liquid Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated clinical analyzers face contamination and inaccurate test results due to clots being carried out of the sample container on the sample probe during aspiration and dispensing, which can contaminate the analyzer and affect other samples.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that detect clots by measuring both descending and ascending liquid levels or capacitance readings to determine if a clot is carried out on the probe, using a difference above a predetermined threshold to signal a clot carryout condition, allowing for corrective measures to prevent contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the sample probe is retracted from the sample container during aspiration, then the sample can be transferred to the reaction container, but clots may be carried out on the probe and contaminate the analyzer
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of clot carryout conditions by measuring capacitance or liquid level during probe descent and ascent before the probe fully retracts. This early detection allows the system to identify when clots are being carried out on the probe surface, enabling preventive actions to be taken before contamination occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors liquid level or capacitance readings during probe movement and uses this feedback to determine clot carryout conditions. The real-time feedback mechanism allows the system to detect changes in the sample environment that indicate clot formation or carryout, enabling dynamic adjustment of probe operations to prevent contamination.
2Reliability
If clot carryout is detected and prevented, then contamination is reduced, but the testing process may be interrupted requiring corrective measures
Solution Approach 1:
By detecting clot carryout conditions during the aspiration and dispensing process itself, the system can take corrective measures such as aborting the current test, dispensing into a waste container, or initiating a probe wash cycle before the clot causes contamination. This preliminary intervention prevents the need for more extensive corrective actions later that would cause greater time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potentially harmful clot carryout event into a beneficial early warning signal. By detecting the clot condition during normal operation, the system can use this information to trigger appropriate corrective actions that actually improve overall process reliability by preventing contaminated results, rather than simply stopping the process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively prevents clot carryout, reducing contamination risks and ensuring accurate test results by safely managing the probe retraction and sample handling to prevent clots from leaving the sample container.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a first level reading during the descending, ascending the sample probe, measuring a second level reading during the ascending
Implementation Method 2
measuring a first capacitance reading during the descending, ascending the sample probe, measuring a second capacitance reading during the ascending
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining a condition of clot carryout from a sample container containing a sample fluid is disclosed. During aspiration of a fluid sample (e.g., blood), a level sensor, such as a capacitance sensor, is used to measure ascending and descending liquid level readings. A difference between the ascending and descending liquid level readings may be compared to a predetermined threshold. Non-ideal conditions, such as a clot carryout condition wherein a clot is carried out of the sample container on the exterior surface of the probe may be detected thereby. Systems and apparatus for carrying out the method are provided, as are other aspects.