Multi-Assay Processing Lockstep Protocol for Resource Contention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clinical laboratories face challenges in efficiently processing and analyzing multiple nucleic acid amplification assays due to unique protocols for each assay type, leading to increased scheduler complexity and resource contention in instruments that process multiple assays simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for multi-assay processing and analysis that employs a common lockstep protocol with equal time periods for each step across different assays, incorporating delay steps to prevent resource contention, and uses a coordinated system with modules like SPU cartridge preparation, sample loading, processing, and nucleic acid amplification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If unique assay protocols are developed for each assay type to optimize performance, then assay performance is improved, but scheduler complexity and resource contention increase when processing multiple assays simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal lockstep protocol that can process multiple different assay types simultaneously using the same timing and processing parameters. The system uses a single protocol structure that accommodates various assays (e.g., HIV, HCV, HBV, CT/NG) by processing them in synchronized batches, eliminating the need for separate scheduling mechanisms for each assay type while maintaining optimized performance for each
2Productivity
If multiple assays are processed simultaneously per run, then system throughput is improved, but resource contention and scheduling complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing of multiple assays into synchronized batches or groups that follow the same lockstep protocol. Instead of scheduling each assay individually, the system divides assays into cohorts that are processed together through identical timing sequences, reducing scheduling complexity while maintaining high throughput by keeping all resources continuously utilized across multiple assay types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple different assay processing streams into a unified lockstep protocol execution. Assays that would traditionally require separate scheduling are combined into single protocol runs where multiple assay types are processed in parallel using the same timing parameters, resource allocation, and processing steps, thereby increasing throughput without proportionally increasing scheduling complexity
3Reliability
If each assay uses different processing times and steps, then assay optimization is improved, but system efficiency decreases when processing multiple assays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the timing parameters from assay-specific variable values to unified fixed values that work across multiple assay types. The lockstep protocol uses standardized processing times, temperatures, and step sequences that are optimized to work for all assay types in the batch, maintaining assay performance while improving system efficiency through consistent parameter usage across all processed assays
Data Source
AI summary
The instant disclosure provides methods of multi-assay processing and multi-assay analysis. Such multi-assay processing and analysis pertain to automated detection of target nucleic acids, e.g., as performed in the clinical setting for diagnostic purposes. Also provided are common assay timing protocols derived from a variety of individual nucleic acid amplification and analysis protocols and modified to prevent resource contention. The instant disclosure also provides systems and devices for practicing the methods as described herein.