Integrated Sample Processing System for Compact Laboratory Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological sample testing systems require multiple machines and significant time and labor for analysis, making them inefficient for smaller laboratories that need high-throughput testing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact, integrated system for processing test samples that includes a vacuum station for loading samples into test sample devices, and a processing subsystem for sealing, incubation, and reading, allowing for semi-automated filling and sealing of test sample devices within a single instrument.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate machines are used for sample processing, sealing, incubation, and reading, then each function can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the overall system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functions (vacuum loading, sealing, incubation, and optical reading) into a single integrated instrument. The housing contains all these subsystems working in sequence, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining dedicated functionality for each process step.
Solution Approach 2:
The single instrument is designed to perform multiple functions: it can vacuum load samples, seal test cards, incubate them at controlled temperatures, and optically read the results. This multi-functional design allows one device to replace several specialized machines, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable performance of each individual function.
2Reliability
If multiple separate machines are used for sample processing, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the time and labor required for operation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated instrument enables continuous processing where the output of one subsystem immediately becomes the input for the next. Test cards are vacuum loaded, then automatically sealed, then immediately placed in the incubation chamber, and finally read optically without manual intervention or transfer time between separate machines. This continuous workflow eliminates idle time and reduces overall processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument performs preliminary actions automatically within the same device: samples are pre-loaded into test cards via vacuum, then pre-sealed before incubation begins. This preliminary preparation all happens in sequence within one instrument, eliminating the need for manual transfer and setup time between separate machines, thereby reducing operational labor and time.
3Productivity
If a fully automated system is implemented, then throughput and efficiency increase, but the initial cost and complexity of the instrument increase
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is divided into distinct functional modules or subsystems within a single housing: a vacuum loading subsystem, a sealing subsystem, an incubation subsystem, and an optical reading subsystem. Each module can be independently designed, maintained, and optimized. This segmentation allows the system to achieve automated high-throughput processing while keeping the complexity manageable through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument uses an automated transport mechanism as an intermediary to move test cards between the vacuum loading station, sealing station, incubation chamber, and reading station. This automated intermediary handles the transfer and positioning of samples, enabling high-throughput automated processing without requiring complex coordination between separate machines, thus improving productivity while controlling overall system complexity.
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
The system reduces the complexity and cost of sample testing by integrating multiple functions into a single instrument, enabling efficient processing and analysis of biological samples with reduced labor and equipment needs, suitable for smaller laboratories.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source controlled to load the test samples from the individual fluid receptacles into the respective test sample devices
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated instrument processes fluid test samples using disposable test devices. The test devices are carried in a carrier. The instrument includes a vacuum station receiving the carrier for batch loading of the test devices with fluid samples to be tested. The user removes the carrier from the vacuum station and inserts it into a loading station of a separate carrier and test device processing subsystem. This subsystem includes a transport system moving the carrier through the instrument where various modules perform operations on the test devices, including sealing the test devices, loading the test devices into an incubation station, incubation of the test devices, test device reading, and test device disposal.