Modular Laboratory Instruments for Automated Sample Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory systems are inefficient in handling complex problems involving multiple partial problems in treatment processes, leading to delays and reduced workflow efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory instrument and system that generate and provide second treatment data for subsequent laboratory instruments, enabling more efficient handling of partial problems within a treatment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a fully automated laboratory system with central control is used, then automation extent is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the laboratory workflow into independent modular devices, each capable of autonomous operation. Each device manages its own tasks and can independently handle samples through complete workflows, eliminating the need for a complex centralized control system while maintaining high automation levels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual determination of boundary conditions is performed, then adaptability is improved, but productivity decreases due to delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where devices continuously exchange information about sample status, resource availability, and task completion. This enables real-time adaptive decision-making without manual intervention, allowing the system to respond flexibly to changing conditions while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular device autonomously determines boundary conditions and makes decisions about its own operation. The devices self-manage task allocation, resource requirements, and workflow coordination without requiring manual determination, thereby maintaining adaptability while eliminating delays associated with human decision-making.
3Productivity
If laboratory resources are kept available to prevent delays, then productivity is improved, but loss of substance increases due to sample degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning samples and reagents in optimal locations before they are needed. Devices automatically prepare and stage materials in advance of actual use, eliminating the need to keep resources continuously available while preventing sample degradation through controlled storage conditions until the moment of use.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a laboratory instrument for the instrument-controlled handling of a partial problem in a treatment process which contains treatments of at least one laboratory sample. The invention moreover relates to a system containing a plurality of such laboratory instruments, wherein the system serves for the instrument-controlled handling of a problem containing a plurality of these partial problems in the treatment process of at least one laboratory sample. And the invention relates to a method for the instrument-controlled handling of a partial problem in a treatment process which contains treatments of at least one laboratory sample.