Robotic Particle Sampling for Sterile Barrier Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In sterile and aseptic environments, human interaction increases the risk of particulate and biological contamination, necessitating advanced sampling technologies to reduce false positives and contamination from human interactions.
Innovation Solution
Automated robotic systems for sampling and analyzing particles and organisms in controlled environments, utilizing robotic manipulators and particle detection devices like optical particle counters, impingers, and impactors, with integrated sterilization systems to minimize human contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If human operators perform particle sampling and analysis in controlled environments, then operational flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but contamination risk from human interactions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses robotic arms to manipulate sampling devices, transport them to sterilization chambers, and perform analysis. This substitution eliminates human contact with the controlled environment while maintaining full operational capability through automated control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robotic system as an intermediary between the operator and the controlled environment. The robot acts as a mediator that performs all necessary sampling and analysis tasks without requiring human entry into the sterile space, thereby preventing contamination while preserving operational flexibility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If automated robotic systems are used for particle sampling, then contamination risk is reduced, but device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is designed to perform multiple functions: sampling particles, transporting devices to and from sterilization chambers, conducting analysis, and coordinating with sterilization systems. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated platform, managing complexity while delivering comprehensive automated capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sampling device, analysis instrument, and robotic manipulation system into an integrated unit. The robotic arm, sampling probe, and analytical components are combined into a cohesive system that operates as a unified whole, reducing the number of separate components and interfaces that would otherwise increase system complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If frequent sterilization of sampling devices is performed, then contamination risk is minimized, but loss of time and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary sterilization of sampling devices before they are introduced into the controlled environment. The robotic system automatically transports devices to sterilization chambers prior to sampling operations, ensuring they are pre-sterilized and ready for use. This eliminates the need for frequent interruptive sterilization cycles during operational sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous operation by implementing parallel processing: while one sampling device is being used, another device is being sterilized in preparation for the next sampling sequence. The robotic system coordinates multiple devices to maintain continuous operational flow, ensuring that sterilization activities do not interrupt the useful sampling and analysis actions.
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
Reduces contamination risk by enabling automated sampling and analysis with reduced human interaction, ensuring stringent particulate and biological load compliance in cleanroom environments.
Implementation Method 1
optical particle counters
Implementation Method 2
optical particle counters
Implementation Method 3
impingers
Implementation Method 4
impactors
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are systems and methods allowing for automated sampling and/or analysis of controlled environments, for example, to determine the presence, quantity, size, concentration, viability, species or characteristics of particles within the environment. The described systems and methods may utilize robotics or automation or remove some or all of the collection or analysis steps that are traditionally performed by human operators. The methods and systems described herein are versatile and may be used with known particle sampling and analysis techniques and particle detection devices including, for example, optical particle counters, impingers and impactors.