Automated Biological Sample Prep with 360° Barcode Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional biological sample preparation systems suffer from manual errors, random droplet carryover, unreliable barcode scanning, and high maintenance costs, leading to reduced efficiency and increased errors in sample handling.
Innovation Solution
An automated system with direct tube loading, 360° barcode scanning, dual-arm de-capping and pipetting, and a drop tray design to prevent carryover, equipped with an intuitive user interface for protocol creation, ensuring sample integrity and reduced maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual pre-removal and marking of caps is performed, then sample tubes can be handled, but it is time-consuming and prone to operator errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs cap removal and marking automatically as part of the standardized sampling protocol, eliminating the need for manual pre-preparation. The automated gripper removes caps and the barcode scanner marks/reads barcodes in sequence without human intervention, thus resolving the time loss and error issues associated with manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated sampler performs all sample tube preparation tasks independently. The integrated gripper, barcode scanner, and control system work together to automatically handle sample tubes without requiring operator intervention for cap removal or marking, thereby eliminating human error and time consumption.
2Reliability
If traditional fixed-angle barcode scanners are used, then barcode reading is possible, but coverage is limited and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a rotating sample tube holder that dynamically positions the tube at multiple angles during the scanning process. This dynamic rotation allows the fixed barcode scanner to effectively read barcodes from various orientations, expanding the functional coverage area and improving reliability without requiring a complex multi-angle scanning system.
3Productivity
If random droplet carryover occurs during sampling, then sampling can be performed, but sample integrity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and removes the cap from the sample tube using an automated gripper before pipetting. This cap removal step, performed in a controlled manner by the automated system, prevents cap leakage and subsequent droplet carryover that would compromise sample integrity, while maintaining efficient sampling throughput.
4Extent of automation
If traditional machines are used, then sample preparation can be automated, but frequent and expensive maintenance is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs disposable consumables such as single-use pipette tips and discardable cap removal tools. This approach eliminates the need for frequent maintenance of critical components, as the consumable parts are replaced rather than repaired. The automated gripper and barcode scanner are designed with simplified maintenance requirements, reducing both maintenance frequency and cost while maintaining full automation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a novel system and improved method for liquid sample preparation and handling. More particularly, the invention relates to a fully automated system and method for sample preparation and handling of biological samples for analysis (e.g., LC/MS/MS analysis).