Automated Sample State Detection via Multi-Wavelength Transmissivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying the state of blood samples in sample tubes, such as mixed or unmixed, are manual and time-consuming, leading to potential human errors and risks of undetected samples in mixed states, which can result in distorted analysis results and instrument damage.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for automated identification of the state of blood samples by determining transmissivity at different wavelengths to distinguish between phase types, allowing for the determination of the sample state as either mixed or unmixed, utilizing a device with light sources and detectors to measure transmissivity across the sample tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual checking of sample states is performed, then human judgment can identify mixed or unmixed states, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method with an automated optical measurement system. Light sources emit light through the sample tube at multiple wavelengths, and detectors measure the transmitted light intensity. This optical measurement system automatically determines sample state (mixed or unmixed) based on transmissivity characteristics, eliminating manual checking while improving both speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the sample tube to self-identify its state through optical properties. The measurement system queries the sample's transmissivity characteristics, and the sample's physical properties (light absorption and transmission differences between mixed and unmixed states) automatically provide the identification information without requiring external manual intervention.
2Productivity
If samples in mixed state are analyzed, then analysis can proceed without additional processing, but distorted analysis results and instrument damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of sample state before analysis. The optical measurement system checks whether the sample is in mixed or unmixed state prior to analysis. Based on the detection result, the system either proceeds with analysis (if unmixed) or triggers centrifugation (If mixed), ensuring that analysis only occurs when appropriate and preventing both distorted results and unnecessary processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the optical measurement system continuously monitors sample state and provides information to the control system. The control system adjusts the analysis process based on this feedback, deciding whether to perform analysis immediately or to initiate centrifugation first, thereby optimizing both productivity and result accuracy.
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 method enables reliable automated identification of sample states, reducing human intervention and saving time, while preventing errors by accurately distinguishing between phase types and ensuring samples are analyzed in the correct state, thus avoiding distorted results and instrument damage.
Implementation Method 1
determining a first transmissivity of the sample across the longitudinal direction at a first wavelength as a first property and determining a second transmissivity of the sample across the longitudinal direction at a second wavelength as a second property
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automated identification of a state of a sample such as, for example, for identifying whether or not the sample was centrifuged is presented. A device for analyzing samples and a laboratory automation system are also presented in which the method is applied.