Integrated Sample Analysis with Optical and MS Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass Spectrometry (MS) techniques have limited clinical application due to challenges in sample preparation, online extraction, throughput, automation, laboratory information system interfacing, and inter-instruments standardization.
Innovation Solution
An integrated sample processing system that includes a chemical analyzer or immunoanalyzer integrated with a mass spectrometer, featuring a common sample preparation station and multiple detection systems, such as optical detection systems, which simplifies the workflow by eliminating the need for centrifugation and Liquid Chromatography (LC) systems, improving turnaround time and analysis accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MS techniques are used for clinical diagnostics, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to sample preparation, online extraction, and automation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate systems (centrifugation system, liquid chromatography system, and mass spectrometry system) into a single integrated sample processing system. The mass spectrometer is coupled to the analyzer with a common sample preparation station, allowing sample processing and analysis to occur in a unified platform rather than through multiple disconnected instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system provides multi-functional capabilities by incorporating both optical detection (chemiluminescence or fluorescence immunoassay) and mass spectrometric detection in a single platform. The system can perform different types of analyses using the same sample preparation station, making it versatile for various clinical diagnostic applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detection systems are integrated, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates both optical detection (chemiluminescence or fluorescence immunoassay) and mass spectrometric detection capabilities within a single integrated platform. The common sample preparation station serves both detection systems, allowing the same hardware infrastructure to support multiple analytical methodologies and expand clinical diagnostic capabilities.
3Device complexity
If centrifugation and LC systems are eliminated, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the centrifugation system and liquid chromatography system from the traditional analytical workflow, extracting only the essential sample processing functions needed for direct mass spectrometric analysis. This simplification eliminates unnecessary intermediate steps while maintaining analytical performance through direct injection capabilities.
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
The integrated system enhances the robustness and efficiency of sample analysis by streamlining the process from sample preparation to detection, reducing complexity and improving the accuracy and speed of sample processing while maintaining high analytical precision.
Implementation Method 1
Mass Spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique used for determining the elemental composition of samples, quantifying the mass of particles and molecules, and elucidating the chemical structure of molecules
Implementation Method 2
The optical detection system may operate using immunoassay detection processes such as chemiluminescence or fluorescence
Implementation Method 3
The optical detection system may operate using immunoassay detection processes such as chemiluminescence or fluorescence
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated sample processing system including an analyzer and a mass spectrometer is disclosed. The integrated sample processing system can perform multiple different types of detection, thereby providing improved flexibility and better accuracy in processing samples. The detection systems in the sample processing system may include an optical detection system and a mass spectrometer.