Universal Docking Bay for Fluidic Analysis Cartridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluidic analysis systems are limited in their ability to perform versatile analytic processes on different types of fluid samples, requiring multiple protocols and manual intervention, with a need for enhanced automation in sample identification, process sequence identification, and real-time communication of process states.
Innovation Solution
An automated analytic system with a universal docking bay for multi-chamber cartridges, featuring a system controller, imaging device, and electronic display for cartridge authentication and process management, which includes mechanisms for fluid manipulation and software for operating these mechanisms based on barcodes or QR codes for selecting and executing appropriate analytic sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluidic analysis systems use multiple specific fluid chambers for different protocols, then each protocol can be performed with dedicated configuration, but the system complexity increases and manual intervention is required for switching between protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal fluid chamber that can perform multiple analytic processes through software control rather than requiring separate physical chambers for each protocol. The system uses a single chamber configured via control software to execute different fluid processing sequences, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility across multiple analytic protocols
2Productivity
If manual processing is used for sample identification and protocol selection, then system operation is flexible, but processing time increases and manual effort is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic sample identification through barcode scanning and automated protocol selection based on sample metadata. The control software automatically retrieves appropriate fluid processing sequences from a database and configures the chamber without operator intervention, enabling the system to serve itself in identification and configuration tasks while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
Sample information including identification codes and protocol requirements are pre-encoded on samples or in associated databases. The system reads this preliminary information and automatically configures the appropriate analysis protocol before processing begins, eliminating manual setup time and accelerating throughput
3Device complexity
If a single fluid chamber is used for all protocols, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to perform specialized processes may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The universal fluid chamber employs dynamic reconfiguration through software-controlled parameters such as flow rates, pressure settings, temperature control, and valve sequences. The chamber adapts its operational characteristics in real-time based on the specific protocol requirements, maintaining process accuracy while using a single physical structure
Data Source
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AI summary
An analytic system for carrying out a chemical assay, the system having a bay with an opening on one side, the bay of a size and shape to enclose a cartridge carrying sample material to be analyzed, one or more mechanisms within the bay through which the cartridge and or material within the cartridge is influenced, a door of a size to cover the opening, a securing mechanism associated with the bay and the door, by which the door is secured when closed.