Sample Analyzer Transport Control for Measurement Item Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers are inefficient in handling a large number of measurement items, as they require both analyzers to measure all necessary items, leading to increased costs and reduced processing speed.
Innovation Solution
A sample analyzer with two measurement units, where the first unit measures specific items and the second unit measures a subset of those items, with a controller optimizing the transport of samples based on the operational states of both units and measurement item information to prioritize and route samples efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both analyzers are configured to measure all necessary measurement items, then measurement capability is improved, but product cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement capabilities are segmented between two analyzers: the first analyzer handles a first set of measurement items while the second analyzer handles a second set of measurement items. This segmentation allows each analyzer to be configured for specific measurement types rather than requiring both to handle all measurement items, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability.
2Productivity
If samples are transported to analyzers efficiently, then processing speed is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample transport system dynamically routes samples to either the first or second analyzer based on real-time operational states and measurement item requirements. The controller adjusts transport destinations adaptively, directing samples to the first analyzer when it is available and capable of handling the required measurement items, otherwise routing to the second analyzer. This dynamic routing optimizes processing speed while managing system complexity through intelligent control.
3Reliability
If redundant measurements are performed, then measurement reliability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and eliminates redundant measurement operations by assigning specific measurement items to specific analyzers. Each analyzer is configured to handle its designated measurement items, so samples are routed to the appropriate analyzer based on which measurement items are required. This prevents unnecessary measurements at both analyzers, reducing processing time while maintaining measurement reliability through proper task allocation.
Data Source
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Figure 1B
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AI summary
The present invention is to present a sample analyzer comprising: a first measurement unit; a second measurement unit; a transport unit for transporting a sample container to the first measurement unit and the second measurement unit; and a controller configured to perform operations comprising: obtaining measurement item information indicating a measurement item of the sample contained in the sample container; and controlling the transport unit so as to transport the sample container to the second measurement unit when a first measurement item and a second measurement item different from the first measurement item are indicated in the measurement item information, and controlling the transport unit so as to transport the sample container to the first measurement unit or the second measurement unit when the first measurement item is indicated and the second measurement item is not indicated in the measurement item information.