Smart Microscope Slide With Embedded Memory For Sample Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for pre-treatment and staining of biological samples lack efficient data management and tracking of processing steps, leading to potential errors and inconsistencies in analysis results.
Innovation Solution
A device with embedded or attached memory, capable of reading and writing data, is used to store and manage information related to the sample, including processing protocols, reagent usage, and environmental conditions, ensuring accurate tracking and authorization of sample handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual tracking and data management methods are used for biological sample processing, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and measurement precision of analysis results deteriorate due to potential errors and inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The microscope slide device performs self-identification and self-tracking through its embedded identification means and memory means. The device automatically records processing step information without requiring external manual intervention, enabling the system to serve itself in data management tasks while improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The microscope slide device serves multiple functions: it supports the biological sample, provides identification information, stores processing data, and tracks analysis steps. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated device, improving reliability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive data tracking of processing steps is implemented, then measurement precision of analysis results is improved, but loss of time in data management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-stores identification information and processing protocol data in its memory means before the actual analysis begins. Processing step information is automatically recorded as events occur, rather than requiring post-processing data entry. This preliminary preparation and automatic recording during processing eliminates time-consuming manual data management while maintaining precise tracking
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical data recording and management processes are replaced with electronic identification means and memory means that automatically capture and store processing information. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming manual data entry while maintaining comprehensive and precise tracking of all analysis steps
3Reliability
If manual handling and processing of biological samples is performed, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability of sample handling deteriorates due to potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The device's identification means and memory means create a feedback system that automatically tracks and records each processing step. This feedback mechanism ensures that the correct processing protocols are followed and provides verification of proper handling, improving reliability while requiring minimal additional operator intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The microscope slide device automatically manages its own identification and processing information through its embedded means. This self-service capability reduces reliance on manual tracking by operators, improving the reliability of sample handling without significantly complicating the ease of operation, as the automation occurs in the background
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method of pre-treatment and staining, according to a protocol, of a biological sample disposed upon the surface of a carrier, the method comprising the step of recording at least one parameter relating to at least one protocol step in a non-volatile memory located either upon or within the carrier or a device incorporating the carrier. Also disclosed is a device comprising: a non-volatile memory; a surface of the device adapted to carry a biological sample; and communications means electrically coupled to the memory for enabling data transmission to or from an external apparatus. Also disclosed is a method of controlling processing of a biological sample disposed upon a carrier, comprising: providing, upon or within the carrier or an apparatus holding the carrier, a non-volatile memory having information relating to sample processing priority or protocol; reading the information; and scheduling the processing based upon the information.