Linear Bridge Wash System for Immunoassay Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing immunoassay analyzer systems face challenges in efficiently managing large numbers of samples with varied incubation times, due to complex scheduling requirements and high manufacturing and certification costs associated with curved magnets and multiple rings.
Innovation Solution
A linear bridge wash system is introduced, which transports cuvettes along a linear track between portions of an incubation ring, allowing for flexible scheduling and use with different ring sizes without the need for redesign and recertification of wash components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If curved magnets and multiple rings are used in traditional wash systems, then washing functionality is achieved, but manufacturing and certification costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The wash system is segmented into multiple independent wash stations positioned along a linear bridge track. Each wash station operates independently with its own magnet assembly, allowing modular manufacturing and certification. This segmentation replaces the traditional single complex ring structure with multiple simpler, interchangeable stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a curved/ring-based wash system to a linear bridge configuration. By changing the geometric dimension from circular to linear, the system eliminates the need for curved magnets and complex circular track mechanics, thereby reducing manufacturing and certification costs while maintaining washing functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple incubation rings with varied incubation times are used, then scheduling flexibility is improved, but system complexity and certification requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The linear bridge wash system is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple incubation rings with different configurations and incubation times. The wash stations on the linear bridge can serve multiple rings without requiring redesign or recertification, providing scheduling flexibility while maintaining a single, certified wash system design.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional ring-based wash systems are used, then cuvette washing is achieved, but manufacturing costs and certification requirements increase for different ring sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The linear bridge wash system creates a standardized, replicable washing platform that can be copied and applied to different incubation ring configurations. Once certified, the same linear bridge design can serve multiple ring sizes without requiring new certification, as it provides a universal washing interface that adapts to different ring configurations.
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 linear bridge wash system simplifies scheduling, reduces manufacturing and certification costs, and allows for increased throughput without changing the wash bridge design, making it suitable for both single and double incubation ring configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a motion system that provides linear motive force on each cuvette across linear bridge
Implementation Method 2
one antibody (capture antibody) is bound to a solid phase, a fine suspension of magnetic particles for the IA module, to allow separation using a magnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A wash system for use in an in vitro diagnostic immunoanalyzer utilizes a bridge having a linear track to move cuvettes from one incubation ring portion to another incubation ring portion. Washing stations along the linear track provide a magnetic field and fluid washing of cuvette contents independent of the size and motion of one or more incubation rings.