Histological Sample Tracking via Private Network Controllers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing histological sample tracking systems in laboratories are cumbersome, vulnerable to misuse, require extensive maintenance, and are inefficient due to the need for multiple devices and cables, which compromises data security and network integrity.
Innovation Solution
A histological sample tracking system comprising a network of tracking stations with integrated scanners and controllers that establish a secure, private network for data communication, using an interface controller to manage access and data storage, and allowing for both wired and wireless connectivity, thereby reducing the need for computers and enhancing data security and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If computers are used at each tracking station to enable barcode scanning and data management, then tracking functionality is provided, but valuable space is consumed and vulnerability to misuse and virus attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the computing functionality from traditional personal computers and consolidates it into a centralized server. Each tracking station becomes a simple terminal device that communicates with the server, eliminating the need for standalone computers at each location while maintaining full tracking capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized server provides universal computing services to all tracking stations, enabling multiple locations to share a single computing resource. This multi-functional approach allows the server to handle data storage, processing, and security for the entire laboratory network.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices and cables are connected to provide tracking functions, then comprehensive tracking capability is achieved, but maintenance requirements increase and system vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate tracking functions into an integrated system where the centralized server coordinates all tracking stations. This consolidation reduces the number of independent devices and connections required, simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing maintenance needs.
3Loss of information
If a network infrastructure is established to connect tracking stations, then data communication is enabled, but risk of data breaches and hacking increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized server acts as an intermediary between all tracking stations and external networks. It controls and monitors all data communications, filtering and managing access requests to prevent unauthorized access while enabling necessary data exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the centralized server continuously monitors network traffic and access patterns, adjusting security measures in response to detected anomalies or potential threats, thereby dynamically responding to security risks.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided a histological sample tracking system, comprising a plurality of tracking stations(TS1, TS2) and controllers(CNT_I, CNT_R1, CNT_R2), each tracking station incorporating a scanner (SCN1, SCN2) and one of the controllers(CNT_R1, CNT_R2). The scanner (SCN_1, SCN_2) is configured to scan identifiers of carriers of histological samples, and the controller (CNT_R1, CNT_R2) is configured to receive the identifiers and send messages based on the identifiers to other ones of the controllers(CNT_I, CNT_R1, CNT_R2). The controllers together form a private network, wherein one of the controllers is assigned as an interface controller (CNT_I) and the remaining controllers are assigned as remote controllers(CNT_R1, CNT_R2). The controller assigned as the interface controller (CNT_I) allows access to an external network(EXNT), and the controllers assigned as remote controllers (CNT_R1, CNT_R2) refuse all access requests from any external networks.