Universal Barcode System for Biological Sample Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
In laboratory settings, biological samples often experience errors due to misidentification and incorrect processing, leading to potential mix-ups and incorrect analysis results, which current systems attempt to mitigate through elaborate paperwork and barcode systems but face challenges with barcode confusion and incorrect placement.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with unique universal identifiers (UUIDs) that can be read by both humans and computers, associated with samples throughout their processing, and stored in a central database, allowing for real-time tracking and minimizing human error by automating the recording of sample information and processing steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple barcodes are used to identify different sample information and instructions, then sample identification capability is improved, but the likelihood of barcode confusion and incorrect placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal barcode system where a single barcode encodes multiple types of information including sample identification, test instructions, and routing information. This multi-functional barcode replaces the previous approach of using multiple separate barcodes, thereby maintaining comprehensive sample identification capability while eliminating barcode confusion and placement errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate barcode functions into a single integrated barcode label. By combining sample ID, test protocol information, and routing instructions into one unified barcode, the system maintains all necessary identification capabilities while eliminating the confusion that arose from having multiple separate barcodes that could be misplaced or confused.
2Loss of information
If barcodes are placed over existing barcodes to add information, then sample information completeness is improved, but the risk of removing the wrong barcode increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all sample information (original sample ID, test instructions, routing information) into a single unified barcode label, eliminating the need to place additional barcodes over existing ones. This approach maintains complete sample information while eliminating the risk of accidentally removing the wrong barcode during the layering process.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal barcode label serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides sample identification, test instructions, and routing information in a single label, eliminating the need to layer multiple single-function barcodes and the associated risk of removing the wrong one.
3Ease of operation
If manual transcription of sample information is used, then flexibility in handling samples is maintained, but human error in identification and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual transcription of sample information with automated barcode scanning and data capture systems. Barcode readers automatically capture sample identification and test information, eliminating manual writing and transcription processes. This maintains operational flexibility while dramatically reducing human error in sample identification and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The barcode system enables self-service data capture where the barcode label itself provides all necessary information about the sample and required tests. Scanning the barcode automatically populates the laboratory information system with correct sample identification and processing instructions, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing errors.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus are described for the handling of biological specimens for analysis. The systems, methods and apparatus are designed to reduce errors in misidentification, incorrect processing, and recordkeeping and reporting. The systems, methods, and apparatus can also provide real time tracking of samples at any stage, from collection to processing to analyzing to storage.