Specimen Measurement Software Modularity Without Recertification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen measurement systems face challenges in easily expanding functions due to the need for software modifications and recertification when adding new features, which complicates the addition of new functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A specimen measurement apparatus with a modular design that includes a measurement unit, control software, data management software, and an interface, allowing application software to be added without modifying the control or data management software, and without requiring additional certification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new functions are added to the specimen measurement system by modifying the control software, then the system functionality is improved, but the software complexity and recertification requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent software components: control software that manages the measurement unit, and application software that provides additional functions. This segmentation allows new functions to be added via application software without modifying or complicating the control software, resolving the contradiction between functionality and software complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control software is designed with universal interfaces that can work with multiple different application software modules. This allows the same control software to support various measurement functions through different applications, enabling functionality expansion without increasing control software complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If new functions are added by modifying the control software, then the system functionality is improved, but the recertification process is required
Solution Approach 1:
By separating control software from application software, the patent enables independent development and deployment of new functions. Since the control software remains unchanged and already certified, adding new application software does not trigger recertification requirements, thus eliminating time loss while improving functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The control software is pre-designed with standardized interfaces and data management structures that anticipate future application requirements. This preliminary preparation allows new applications to be integrated without modifying the certified control software, avoiding recertification delays
3Stability of the object's composition
If the control software manages all functions including reagent information, then the system is unified, but the ease of adding new functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software architecture into control software for stable core functions and application software for flexible additions. This maintains system unity through standardized interfaces while making it easy to add new functions through independent application modules without affecting the unified control layer
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a specimen measurement apparatus including a measurement unit configured to measure a specimen, the specimen measurement apparatus including: control software configured to control the measurement unit; data management software configured to manage data regarding the measurement unit that operates under control by the control software; and an interface configured to allow application software capable of being added to a system including the specimen measurement apparatus, to utilize the data, wherein a function of the system is expanded by the application software added to the system.