Automated Staining System Adaptive Temperature Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated sample processing systems for biological samples are inadequate due to lack of sufficient computer control, information sharing, diagnostic capabilities, and real-time adaptability, leading to inefficient antigen retrieval and staining processes, particularly in immunohistochemistry applications, where antigen denaturation and poor staining results are common due to inadequate temperature control and lengthy processing times.
Innovation Solution
An automated sample processing system with adaptive control, integrated mixing device, and advanced temperature regulation, including a robotic probe with pneumatic pressure control and optical sensors for precise reagent handling and temperature management, enabling efficient antigen retrieval and staining protocols with reduced processing time and improved antigen preservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated sample processing systems are used, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inadequate temperature control and antigen denaturation
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates temperature sensors that continuously monitor the temperature of processing solutions and provide feedback to the controller, which adjusts heating elements to maintain precise temperature control during automated processing, preventing antigen denaturation while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical temperature control with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors and actuators to precisely regulate temperature, eliminating the imprecision of manual methods while maintaining automation benefits
2Manufacturing precision
If processing time is extended to improve staining quality, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes staining quality by precisely controlling multiple parameters including temperature, reagent concentration, and exposure time through automated regulation, achieving high-quality results in reduced time compared to manual methods that rely on extended processing
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts processing parameters based on real-time conditions and protocol requirements, optimizing the balance between processing time and staining quality for each specific sample type and staining protocol
3Manufacturing precision
If manual intervention is used for sample processing, then manufacturing precision is improved through careful handling, but ease of operation deteriorates due to labor-intensive procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs sample handling, reagent application, and processing steps autonomously without requiring manual intervention, maintaining precise handling through programmed sequences while dramatically improving ease of operation by eliminating labor-intensive procedures
4Manufacturing precision
If pressurized systems are used for antigen retrieval, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the essential function of antigen retrieval from complex pressurized equipment by using a simplified heated processing chamber that achieves effective antigen retrieval through controlled heating and chemical treatment alone, eliminating the need for pressurized systems
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 system facilitates effective antigen retrieval in shorter durations without pressurized systems, ensures precise reagent mixing and application, and maintains optimal temperature conditions, resulting in enhanced staining quality and efficiency, reducing manual intervention and processing time.
Implementation Method 1
said processing tank is provided with a heating member for heating the processing liquid contained in the tank
Implementation Method 2
said processing tank is further provided with a cooling member for cooling the processing liquid contained in the tank
Implementation Method 3
a robotic probe with pneumatic pressure control and optical sensors for precise reagent handling
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a method and apparatus for automatic staining or other processing of a biological sample on a slide, perhaps robotically, by applying predetermined amounts of reagents in a predetermined sequence according to a processing protocol, the processing including pre-treatment steps, under the control of an adaptive processing control system. Further provided is a method of antigen retrieval, the method comprising contacting, within a heated processing tank of an automated staining apparatus, at least one biological sample with at least one composition for antigen retrieval comprising at least one chelating agent, at least one detergent and at least 50% by volume of at least one liquid that facilitates antigen retrieval.