Automated Preprocessing Apparatus for Dried Blood Spot Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Batch mode analysis of dried blood spots, such as in newborn mass screening, is inefficient, leading to high running costs and potential errors due to manual specimen management and preprocessing, which can result in inaccuracies and specimen mix-ups.
Innovation Solution
A preprocessing apparatus with a carrying mechanism that randomly accesses extraction ports for efficient processing of solid samples, including dried blood spots, using a solid medium, and integrates with a liquid chromatographic system for automated analysis, eliminating manual intervention and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If batch mode analysis is used for dried blood spots, then specimen management is simplified, but operation efficiency decreases and running costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated system that uses a carrying mechanism to transport preprocessing containers between setting ports and processing ports. The system automatically performs extraction processing without manual intervention, thereby improving operation efficiency while maintaining ease of specimen management through systematic automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The preprocessing apparatus is designed to autonomously perform extraction processing once the preprocessing container is set in the setting port. The system self-manages the extraction process, including automatic reagent addition, mixing, and separation, eliminating the need for continuous manual operation while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Quantity of substance
If batch mode analysis is used for dried blood spots, then processing capacity is maintained, but time lag between first and last specimen preprocessing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous processing by allowing multiple preprocessing containers to be set in different setting ports simultaneously. While one container is being processed, another can be prepared or results can be analyzed, eliminating idle time and reducing the time lag between the first and last specimen processing through overlapping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows preliminary setting of multiple preprocessing containers in the setting port before processing begins. This preparation phase enables the system to have multiple specimens ready for extraction, reducing waiting time and ensuring continuous workflow without time lags between specimens.
3Device complexity
If manual preprocessing is performed, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability decreases due to potential errors and specimen mix-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual preprocessing operations with an automated extraction system that precisely controls reagent addition, mixing, and separation processes. This automation eliminates human errors such as specimen mix-ups and inconsistent reagent dispensing, significantly improving reliability and analysis accuracy despite the increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates identification mechanisms that track and manage preprocessing containers throughout the extraction process. This feedback system ensures that each specimen is processed correctly and prevents mix-ups by maintaining accurate records of specimen locations and processing status, thereby enhancing reliability.
4Productivity
If automated carrying mechanism is introduced, then preprocessing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying mechanism is designed as a multi-functional component that not only transports preprocessing containers between ports but also positions them accurately for extraction processing. By combining multiple functions into a single mechanism, the system achieves high preprocessing efficiency without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the preprocessing apparatus into distinct functional modules: setting ports for container placement, processing ports for extraction, and a carrying mechanism for transport. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, improving overall efficiency while managing complexity through modular design.
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
This solution enables high-efficiency analysis of solid media samples like dried blood spots by automating preprocessing and analysis, reducing errors, and improving the accuracy and speed of specimen processing, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of newborn mass screening.
Implementation Method 1
a separation device having a filter for filtering a sample
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a preprocessing apparatus that makes it possible to highly efficiently analyze specimens held by solid media, such as dried blood spots to be used for newborn mass screening or the like. The preprocessing apparatus includes: a preprocessing container setting part in which a preprocessing container containing a solid sample including a specimen to be analyzed and a solid medium holding the specimen is to be set; a carrying mechanism that carries the preprocessing container set in the preprocessing container setting part; and a preprocessing part that has a port for setting the preprocessing container carried by the carrying mechanism and that is configured to perform preprocessing including extraction processing for extracting the specimen from the solid sample contained in the preprocessing container set in the port.