Specimen Processing System Parallel Lanes Dynamic Cartridge Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current specimen treatment and measurement systems face challenges in efficiently handling multiple samples with different treatment requirements, as multi-sample batch systems struggle with varied pretreatment steps and one-sample random access systems become overly complex and time-consuming due to the need for frequent sample transfers.
Innovation Solution
A specimen treatment and measurement system that includes a cartridge storing unit, multiple treatment lanes, a cartridge transferring unit, and a specimen transferring unit, allowing for parallel treatment of nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and measurement, with a controller managing the transfer of cartridges and specimens to optimize treatment workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a multi-sample batch system is used to perform batch treatment on multiple samples in parallel, then device downsizing and simplification is achieved, but the system cannot efficiently handle samples with different treatment requirements and cannot continuously process different samples
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically assigns samples to treatment lanes based on their specific treatment requirements. Each lane can be independently configured and controlled to perform different treatment protocols, allowing the system to adapt to varying sample needs while maintaining parallel processing capability. The controller dynamically manages the treatment workflow for each lane based on real-time sample information.
Solution Approach 2:
The treatment lanes are designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing various treatment steps (extraction, amplification, measurement) within a single lane. This universal design allows any treatment lane to handle different sample types and protocols, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware for each treatment type while maintaining versatility.
2Productivity
If a one-sample random access system is used to perform treatment on samples with different steps sequentially, then consistent and continuous treatment is achieved, but hardware and software complexity increases significantly and system size becomes extremely large
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the treatment process into multiple independent treatment lanes, where each lane can simultaneously process different samples with different protocols. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples without requiring a single complex sequential system, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining continuous treatment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that manages and coordinates the treatment workflows across multiple lanes. It receives sample information, determines appropriate treatment protocols, and dynamically assigns and monitors each sample's progression through the treatment lanes, simplifying the control architecture compared to a fully sequential system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent sample transfers are performed in a one-sample random access system, then different treatment steps can be executed for each sample, but treatment time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assignment of samples to treatment lanes based on their treatment requirements before treatment begins. Sample information is read and analyzed in advance, and the controller pre-determines the treatment protocol and lane assignment, eliminating delays during the treatment process and reducing total treatment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The treatment lanes operate continuously without interruption, processing multiple samples in parallel. Once a sample is assigned to a lane, the treatment proceeds continuously through all necessary steps (extraction, amplification, measurement) without requiring physical transfer of the sample between different hardware modules, thereby maintaining continuous useful action and reducing treatment time.
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
Enables efficient and continuous treatment of multiple specimens with varying requirements by simplifying the workflow, reducing complexity, and improving throughput while maintaining cost-effectiveness and operational ease.
Implementation Method 1
The present inventor has proposed magtration technology in U.S. Pat. No. 3,682,302, FIG. 3 using magnetic particles
Data Source
AI summary
A specimen treating and measuring system according to the present invention comprises: a treatment part having a plurality of lanes for carrying out parallel processing of a plurality of specimens, and mounting cartridges in each of the plurality of lanes; a cartridge storing unit storing a plurality of types of cartridge to be used for different processes corresponding to the plurality of specimens; a sample storing unit storing and conveying sample tubes containing the plurality of specimens; a pickup unit transferring each of the plurality of types of cartridge to each lane, and transferring each of the plurality of specimens from the sample tubes to each of the plurality of lanes; and a control unit controlling the transfer of the plurality of types of cartridge and the transfer of the plurality of specimens, performed by the pickup unit.