Sample Analyzer Time Management via Control Device Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample analyzers lack the capability to accurately manage time for all samples scheduled for analysis, making it difficult to determine when all samples will be completed, which hampers efficient time management in laboratories.
Innovation Solution
The sample analyzer calculates and displays both the remaining time for individual samples and the total analysis time for all samples by tracking the progress of each sample through its analysis sequence, allowing for comprehensive time management across multiple samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sample analyzers process multiple samples using multiple reagents, then the analysis capability is improved, but the time management capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control device calculates and displays the total analysis time by continuously monitoring the progress of each sample through the analysis sequence. This feedback mechanism provides real-time information about remaining time for individual samples and cumulative time for all samples, enabling effective time management while maintaining multi-sample analysis capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the automated sample processing system and the user. It receives progress information from the measurement unit, calculates time estimates, and presents this information in a comprehensible format, bridging the gap between complex automated processing and user needs for time management
2Measurement precision
If the analyzer tracks individual sample progress, then the information accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device performs multiple functions: it controls the automated sample processing, tracks progress of multiple samples simultaneously, calculates individual and total analysis times, and displays information. This multi-functionality achieves accurate time tracking without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function
3Productivity
If the analyzer provides comprehensive time information for all samples, then the productivity is improved, but the information processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The time information is segmented into two distinct components: remaining time for each individual sample and cumulative total time for all samples. This segmentation allows the system to provide comprehensive time management information while organizing data in a manageable and interpretable format that reduces information processing burden
Data Source
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AI summary
An sample analyzer, which enables to confirm an analysis remaining time for each sample and a total analysis remaining time for all samples set in the analyzer, so that time management for both each sample and all samples can be easily performed, is disclosed. Specifically, an analyzing unit analyzes a sample by executing an analysis sequence including a predetermined number of analyzing steps, and an control device calculates an analysis remaining time for each sample based on the number of analyzing steps. Control device acquires a total analysis remaining time by calculating the analysis remaining time for the sample in which sample information is lastly inputted. The display member displays the analysis remaining time and the total analysis remaining time.