Automated Sample Processing System With Isolated Network Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated sample processing systems for immunohistochemistry and other chemical and biological analyses lack sufficient computer control, information sharing, practical input capabilities, diagnostic functions, and real-time adaptability, leading to inefficiencies and manual labor-intensive protocols.
Innovation Solution
An automated sample processing system with adaptive control and communication capabilities, featuring movable and removable sample carriers, robotic processing, and real-time data transfer, allowing for concurrent or sequential processing of samples according to predefined protocols, with integrated sensors for information acquisition and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated sample processing systems are implemented, then productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity and lack of computer control capabilities worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions including robotic sample handling, automated protocol execution, real-time data acquisition through sensors, communication interfaces for information sharing, and diagnostic capabilities within a single automated processing platform. This multi-functional integration resolves the contradiction by providing comprehensive automation capabilities without requiring separate complex systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time monitoring through integrated sensors that provide feedback on processing status, sample conditions, and system operational parameters. This feedback mechanism enables adaptive control and maintains processing integrity while automating complex protocols, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing control capability.
2Ease of operation
If manual sample processing protocols are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of time and manual labor intensity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows pre-programming of processing protocols with predefined parameters and sequences before sample processing begins. This preliminary configuration enables automated execution of complex multi-step protocols without requiring manual intervention during processing, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized protocol templates.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system performs sample processing operations autonomously including reagent dispensing, incubation timing, and protocol sequence execution without continuous manual oversight. The system self-manages the processing workflow according to programmed parameters, eliminating manual labor intensity and reducing processing time while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Productivity
If automated processing systems are implemented, then productivity is improved, but adaptability and real-time monitoring capabilities worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic adaptability that allows real-time modification of processing parameters and protocol sequences during batch processing operations. The automated system can respond to real-time sensor data and adjust processing conditions dynamically, enabling both high-throughput batch processing and adaptive response to changing sample conditions or protocol requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Integrated sensors provide real-time feedback on processing status and sample conditions during automated batch processing. This feedback enables the system to adapt processing parameters dynamically while maintaining automated operation, thereby resolving the contradiction between batch processing productivity and real-time adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If information sharing capabilities are added to automated systems, then adaptability and diagnostic capability are improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates communication and information sharing capabilities as part of its multi-functional architecture, incorporating standardized interfaces for data exchange, protocol configuration, and diagnostic information retrieval. This integration resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability and information sharing without requiring separate complex communication systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample processing system 101 that may be automated and methods are disclosed where a number of sample processing systems 101, such as stainer, may be connected to a number of separate full function computers 181 through a stainer network 183 that may be isolated from other communication traffic. A network configuration may permit scalability and addressability so that additional sample processing systems 101, additional separate full function computers 181, and additional other devices such as label printers 200 may be easily added to the system. One or more remote information links 171 may be provided so that information transfer on a continuous or perhaps constant basis can be accommodated.