Sample Processing System Preventing Mix-ups
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample processing systems face challenges in preventing sample mix-ups, especially when processing multiple samples in a single rack, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing system is designed with a conveyance line and control unit that uses identifier-reading devices and a dispenser to manage and aliquot samples, ensuring that only one sample container is held per holder, and includes a collator to verify matching identifiers before processing, preventing mix-ups by controlling the dispenser and displaying mismatch information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple sample containers are rested in one rack for processing, then processing capacity is improved, but sample mix-up risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sample processing into separate holders, each dedicated to a single sample container. This segmentation isolates each sample's processing path, preventing mix-ups while maintaining processing capacity through parallel processing of multiple samples in different holders.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary between the sample container and the processing units. Each holder is uniquely identified and tracked through the conveyance line, serving as a mediator that ensures correct sample routing and prevents mix-ups while enabling efficient processing.
2Reliability
If one sample container is rested in one holder, then sample mix-up is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed as a universal component that can accommodate any sample container and serves multiple functions: physical support, unique identification, tracking through conveyance, and isolation during processing. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the one-to-one mapping.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses identifier reading devices to create digital copies of sample identities and tracks them through the processing system. This copying approach replaces complex physical tracking mechanisms with information-based identification, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Measurement precision
If identifier verification is performed before aliquoting, then sample accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Identifier verification is performed as a preliminary action at multiple stages (when holder is loaded, during conveyance, before aliquoting). This ensures accuracy is built into the process flow rather than added as a separate step, minimizing time loss through integrated verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The identifier reading devices are positioned to continuously read and verify identifiers as holders move through the conveyance line. This continuous verification action eliminates idle verification time and ensures sample accuracy is maintained throughout the entire processing sequence without significant time penalty.
Data Source
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AI summary
This invention provides a sample processing system in which only one sample container is rested in one holder, the system being contemplated to prevent a mix-up of samples from occurring. A barcode labeler module 13 includes an identifier-reading device R1 that reads an identifier of a holder holding a primary-sample container, a printer 13B that prints a label based on information from a control PC unit 21 as well as on the identifier of the primary-sample container holder that has been read by the identifier-reading device R1, and affixes the label to a secondary-sample container, and a second identifier-reading device R2 that reads an identifier of the holder having the secondary-sample container mounted therein. A aliquoter module 14 includes an identifier-reading device R3 that reads the identifier of the holder conveyed from the barcode labeler module 13 and having the primary-sample container mounted therein, an identifier-reading device R4 that reads the identifier of the holder having the secondary-sample container mounted therein, and a aliquoter unit 14A that dispenses a sample from the primary-sample container into the secondary-sample container.