Modular Biological Sample Processing Apparatus for Assay Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample processing systems are not versatile and are dedicated to specific types of assays, making them inflexible and unable to adapt to different protocols, thus failing to meet the needs for present and future user requirements.
Innovation Solution
A biological sample processing apparatus with a modular design that includes a plurality of sample processing modules, each capable of performing different testing processes, such as nucleic acid amplification, detection, sample preparation, and immunoassays, within removable sample cartridges, allowing for flexibility and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems are dedicated to one type of assay, then the system can be optimized for that specific assay, but the system lacks versatility and cannot adapt to different protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules, each dedicated to a specific processing step (sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, amplification, detection). Each module can be independently configured and replaced based on assay requirements, enabling versatility without overwhelming system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs universal interfaces and standardized protocols that allow different module types to work together in a common platform. The same physical system can be reconfigured for different assay types by swapping modules, achieving multi-functionality while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system is designed to perform multiple different assays, then versatility is improved, but the complexity of configuring and operating the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system configuration is dynamically adjustable through software control, allowing users to select and activate only the modules needed for the current assay type. The system can be reprogrammed for different protocols without physical reconfiguration, making it adaptable while remaining easy to operate through software-based control.
Solution Approach 2:
A central control system acts as an intermediary between the user and the multiple processing modules. This mediator coordinates module operations, manages reagent distribution, and handles data integration, thereby simplifying user interaction with the complex multi-module system through a unified interface.
3Reliability
If separate systems are used for each assay type, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system size and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple assay-specific functions are merged into a single integrated system that shares common infrastructure (power supply, control electronics, fluid handling). Each assay type uses dedicated processing modules that connect to this shared platform, achieving functional optimization while reducing overall system size through resource sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a hierarchical structure where specialized processing modules are nested within the broader integrated platform. Each module can be independently optimized for its specific function while being housed within and coordinated by the larger system architecture, allowing compact integration of multiple specialized functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A biological sample processing apparatus having an enclosure. A plurality of sample processing modules are held by the enclosure. Each sample processing module is configured to hold a removable sample cartridge and to only perform sample processing on a sample within the corresponding removable sample cartridge. Each sample processing module is configured to perform at least one of a plurality of testing processes on the sample within the removable sample cartridge. At least one module in the apparatus is configured to perform nucleic acid amplification and detection.