Random Access Diagnostic Sleeve with Gap Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated analyzers are limited by physical space, allowing only one type of immunological test element per sleeve, necessitating manual operator intervention and interrupting the blood testing process to swap out test elements, which delays results and requires high operator interaction.
Innovation Solution
A method and container system that enables multiple types of test elements to be loaded into a single sleeve, using detectable gaps between elements for proximity sensing to determine inventory and type, allowing for random access and efficient inventory management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If only one type of test element is loaded per sleeve, then inventory determination is simple, but operator intervention is required frequently and testing efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is segmented into multiple compartments, each capable of holding a different type of test element. The detection mechanism is segmented to independently identify each compartment's contents through gap sensing, allowing simultaneous access to multiple test element types without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service through automated detection of test element inventory and types using gap sensing technology. The analyzer automatically identifies which compartments contain test elements and retrieves them as needed, eliminating the need for operator intervention to check or swap test elements.
2Ease of operation
If multiple types of test elements are loaded in a single sleeve, then operator intervention is reduced, but detecting and managing inventory becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical approach of manual inventory checking is replaced with an optical/electronic detection system. The sensor detects the presence or absence of test elements by sensing gaps in the sleeve compartments, automatically identifying inventory status and test element types without complex manual procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical space is maximized to hold multiple test element types, then random access capability is improved, but the detection mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gap between test elements serves as an intermediary signal for the detection mechanism. Instead of directly complexly identifying each test element type, the system uses the presence or absence of gaps as a simple binary signal to determine inventory status, which then triggers appropriate retrieval actions.
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 significantly reduces operator intervention and time, enabling faster and more efficient inventory determination and access to multiple test element types within a single sleeve, thereby improving throughput and reducing delays in blood testing processes.
Implementation Method 1
Through sensing of a test element position in its slot, the detection mechanism of the invention provides for random access to multiple types of test elements in any sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
An immunodiagnostic test method includes holding a selection of immunological test elements or consumables in one or more containers attached to or positioned in the analyzer and providing random access to any test element therein. The container can hold multiple types of test elements in compartments or slots. Through sensing of a test element position in its slot, the detection mechanism of the invention provides for random access to multiple types of test elements in any sleeve and within a single sleeve, and provides efficient inventory control. The method increases the number of test element types that may be loaded onto an analyzer and maintains fast determination of inventory.