Automated Mass Spectrometer Installation Testing Software

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of analytical or scientific instruments, such as mass spectrometers, often requires manual mechanical operations and testing, which is time-consuming, error-prone, and inconsistent, necessitating a skilled technician and resulting in variable performance outcomes.

Innovation Solution

A method and software system for automating the installation process of mass spectrometers, including a user interface for controlling the installation, automated execution of test sequences for instrument and system level testing, and option level testing, with remedial actions and resumption of testing based on critical threshold failures, enabling remote monitoring and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual installation testing is performed by skilled technicians, then installation testing can be completed with human judgment and adaptability, but the process is time-consuming, error-prone, and inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation testing consistencyVSAvoidinstallation testing duration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical testing operations with an automated software system that executes test sequences, collects instrument responses, and generates reports. The automated installation testing system substitutes human technicians' manual operations with computer-controlled automation, eliminating variability and time consumption associated with manual testing while maintaining comprehensive test coverage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation testing system performs self-testing by automatically executing test sequences, evaluating results against predefined criteria, and generating test reports without requiring continuous human intervention. The system autonomously manages the entire testing process from initiation to completion, including automatic error detection and remedial action execution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If manual installation testing is performed, then flexible judgment and adaptability can be applied during testing, but the process becomes cumbersome and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation testing operationVSAvoidinstallation testing accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual testing operations with automated software execution of test sequences. The automated system eliminates human errors in data collection, analysis, and reporting while maintaining ease of operation through a user-friendly interface that guides technicians through the installation process with minimal intervention required

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If automated test sequences are executed, then installation testing speed and consistency are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation testing efficiencyVSAvoidtesting system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated installation testing system is designed to be universal and multi-functional, capable of testing various analytical instruments (mass spectrometers, liquid chromatographs, gas chromatographs) with a single platform. The system incorporates multiple test sequences, automatic error handling, remedial actions, and reporting capabilities within one integrated software package, reducing the need for separate testing tools for different instrument types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary software layer that manages the complexity between the user and the automated testing system. This intermediary interface simplifies user interaction while handling complex test sequence execution, data analysis, and system coordination in the background, effectively masking the underlying complexity from the end user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9396915B2Techniques for automated installation testing and reporting for analytical instruments

Publication Date: 2016.07.19 WATERS TECHNOLOGY CORP

AI summary

Automated installation processing of a mass spectrometer is described. Software is executed providing a user interface for controlling the installation process. Manual setup operations in connection with physical installation of the mass spectrometer are performed. Instrument level testing of the mass spectrometer is performed. The instrument level testing includes automating execution of a first test sequence in response to a first user interface selection. The first test sequence includes one or more performance tests whereby mass spectral data characterizing observed performance of the mass spectrometer is compared to predetermined performance criteria. System level testing of functionality of the mass spectrometer in combination with one or more other components is performed upon successful completion of said instrument level testing. The system level testing includes automating execution of a second test sequence in response to a second user interface selection. System level testing is performed after successful completion of instrument level testing.