Separation Instrument Remote Operation With Local Halt Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote control of laboratory instruments poses safety concerns due to lack of situational awareness by the remote user, leading to potential accidents or damage from emergencies or malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that allows remote control of instruments while maintaining local control through a halt function, with optional resume and stop functions, and includes user authentication and real-time status display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If remote control of the instrument is enabled, then operational flexibility and efficiency are improved, but safety is worsened due to lack of situational awareness by the remote user
Solution Approach 1:
The local user interface acts as an intermediary between the remote user and the instrument. It receives commands from the remote user, translates them into appropriate instrument commands, and maintains safety by requiring physical presence for certain operations. This intermediary layer enables remote operation while preserving safety through local oversight.
2Reliability
If the local interface is locked in view-only mode when remote user is connected, then conflicting instructions are prevented, but local personnel are unable to intervene in case of emergency
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface dynamically changes its functionality based on the operational context. During normal remote operation, it maintains view-only mode to prevent conflicting commands. However, it provides emergency override capabilities that allow local personnel to intervene when needed, creating a dynamic balance between control consistency and emergency responsiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple users can control the instrument simultaneously, then collaboration is improved, but conflicting instructions may be sent to the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that inform all users about the current control state and operational parameters. When a remote user connects, the local interface provides feedback about the connection status and allows the remote user to take control. This feedback loop ensures all users are aware of who is controlling the instrument, preventing conflicting instructions while enabling collaboration.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for operating an instrument being a separation instrument or a synthesis instrument, which includes a sample operation device and a computing device for controlling the sample operation device, is disclosed. The method involves displaying a first graphical user interface for controlling the instrument on a display device of the computing device, transmitting information corresponding to a second graphical user interface for controlling the instrument to a remote computing device connected to the computing device via a network interface, and setting the first graphical user interface to an observer mode in which controlling the instrument is limited to a halt function for halting a process of the sample operation device.