Semi-Automated Sample Analysis System for Pathogen Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation and testing methods are prone to human error, leading to inaccurate results and increased costs due to time-consuming and expensive delays in milk testing for pathogens, which can take 24 hours or longer.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automated system with a computer-guided process using a heating element, centrifuge, thermocycler, and imager, along with interactive instructions and reagents, to streamline sample preparation and analysis, minimizing errors and speeding up the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manual sample preparation and testing methods are used, then the process can be completed, but human error increases and the process takes 24 hours or longer
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the entire testing workflow including sample preparation, reagent addition, thermal cycling parameters, and result analysis before the actual sample is introduced. The interactive instructions prepare the user and system in advance, ensuring all steps are ready to execute immediately when the sample is added, thereby reducing total testing time while maintaining accuracy through pre-validated protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automating the testing process where the machine performs sample preparation, reagent dispensing, thermal cycling, and result analysis with minimal human intervention. The interactive instructions guide the system through self-configuration and self-execution, reducing human error while accelerating the process from traditional 24+ hours to significantly faster turnaround
2Productivity
If automated components are added to speed up the process, then the analysis time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating sample preparation, centrifugation, reagent dispensing, thermal cycling, fluorescence detection, and data analysis into a single unified platform. Each component serves multiple purposes: the heating element assists in both sample preparation and PCR cycling, the imager detects fluorescence across multiple wavelengths, and the processor coordinates all operations. This universal approach increases productivity while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate standalone devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges previously separate functions into combined operations: the heating element and thermocycler are integrated, the centrifuge and sample transfer are coordinated, and the imager and fluorescence detection are unified. The interactive instructions merge the user interface with automated control, combining manual guidance with autonomous execution. This merging reduces the number of discrete components needed while maintaining high productivity
3Reliability
If interactive instructions and guidance systems are implemented, then human error is reduced, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional interface requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The interactive instructions implement feedback by continuously monitoring system state and user actions, providing real-time guidance, confirmation, and correction. The system tracks each step of the protocol, verifies proper execution, and guides the user through the workflow with dynamic prompts. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent sample preparation by preventing errors before they occur while keeping the interface intuitive through context-aware guidance rather than static complex menus
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 system significantly reduces the likelihood of human error, accelerates the sample preparation and analysis process, and provides accurate results quickly, thereby reducing costs and time associated with milk testing.
Implementation Method 1
heating the sample preparation receptacle, with the added sample, in the heating element of the sample analysis system at a first temperature for a first heating period of time
Implementation Method 2
centrifuging the sample preparation receptacle, after heating, for a first period of time using the centrifuge of the sample analysis system
Implementation Method 3
obtaining, via the thermocycler and imager of the sample analysis system, a fluorescence curve during a quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Implementation Method 4
obtaining, via the thermocycler and imager of the sample analysis system, a fluorescence curve during a quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for analyzing a sample potentially comprising a target, comprising: (i) activating one or more components of the sample analysis system in preparation for a sample, wherein the sample analysis system comprises a heating element, a centrifuge, a thermocycler, an imager, a user interface, and a processor; (ii) obtaining a sample potentially comprising a target; (iii) adding the obtained sample to a sample preparation receptacle, the sample preparation receptacle comprising one or more reagents configured to maximize success of the sample analysis; (iv) heating the sample preparation receptacle, with the added sample, in the heating element of the sample analysis system at a first temperature for a first heating period of time; (v) centrifuging the sample preparation receptacle, after heating, for a first period of time using the centrifuge of the sample analysis system; (vi) transferring at least a portion of the sample, after centrifugation, from the sample preparation receptacle to a sample analysis receptacle, the sample analysis receptacle comprising one or more reagents configured for a qPCR reaction specific to a selected target; (vii) obtaining, via the thermocycler and imager of the sample analysis system, a fluorescence curve during a qPCR reaction; (viii) analyzing, by the process of the sample analysis system, the obtained fluorescence curve to determine a presence or absence of the selected target in the sample; and (ix) reporting, to a user by the user interface of the sample analysis system, the presence or absence of the selected target in the sample; wherein one or more steps of the method are guided by interactive instructions provided by the sample analysis system.