Task-Based Liquid Handler Interface for Nucleic Acid Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated preparing devices require clear parameter values and instructions for performing tasks in nucleic acid amplification processes, which are not adequately addressed by existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A user interface method for a liquid handler that displays task types and parameters, receives input values, and transfers them to the device for preparing nucleic acid amplification compositions, enabling precise operation and testing of candidate compositions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated preparing device is used for nucleic acid amplification composition preparation, then preparation efficiency and consistency are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex parameter input requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating parameter values based on selected task types and test items. The preparing device queries a database using the selected task and test item as keys, automatically retrieves the corresponding parameter values, and inputs them without requiring manual entry by the user. This eliminates manual parameter input while maintaining automation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
A database acts as an intermediary between the user interface and the preparing device. The database stores pre-defined parameter values associated with specific task types and test items. When the user selects a task and test item, the system queries the database to retrieve the appropriate parameters, serving as a mediator that translates user selections into actionable parameters without direct manual input.
2Device complexity
If manual parameter input is required for automated preparing device, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to manual parameter determination
Solution Approach 1:
Parameter values are prepared in advance and stored in a database before actual preparation tasks are executed. The system pre-defines parameter values associated with specific task types and test items, so when a task is initiated, the parameters are already available for immediate retrieval and use, eliminating the need for real-time manual determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying by retrieving pre-stored parameter values from a database rather than creating or determining them manually during operation. The parameter values are copied from the database based on the selected task type and test item, significantly reducing the time required for parameter determination while maintaining accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive test items are included for candidate composition testing, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple parameters to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The testing process is segmented into distinct task types (e.g., sensitivity test, specificity test, cross-reactivity test), with each task type associated with specific test items and parameter sets. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing parameters into modular, task-specific groups rather than requiring management of all parameters simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The database structure provides a universal framework that handles multiple test items and parameter types through a common retrieval mechanism. The same database query process works for different task types and test items, providing a multi-functional solution that manages diverse parameters uniformly, reducing the perceived complexity for the user.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method method for providing a user interface on a user interface-providing device for operating a liquid handler to prepare a candidate composition to be tested to provide a nucleic acid amplification composition for detecting a target nucleic acid molecule, the method comprising: displaying an input screen for selecting types of tasks and a plurality of test items for preparing the candidate composition: displaying (i) a parameter defined by the selected task and the test item and (ii) an input screen for receiving the parameter value for the displayed parameter; receiving the parameter value; and transferring the received parameter value to the liquid handler, wherein the user interface-providing device communicates with the liquid handler such that the liquid handler is operated at least partially based on an instruction and a parameter value to be referenced upon execution of the instruction, wherein the test of the candidate composition is performed for at least one test item among the plurality of test items, wherein each of the plurality of test items is to test a detection performance of the candidate composition, and wherein the detection performance comprises a sensitivity and/or specificity for the target nucleic acid molecule.