Measurement Value Correction Using Virtual Pooled QC References

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for correcting measurement errors in analysis devices, such as mass spectrometers, require the preparation of a pooled QC, which can be difficult for solid samples, time-consuming, and limits the number of samples that can be analyzed per unit time.

Innovation Solution

A data processing method that estimates reference values based on previous measurement data to correct measurement values without preparing a pooled QC, using In silico analysis to calculate reference values that mimic the behavior of a pooled QC, allowing for inter-batch corrections and reducing preparation time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a pooled QC is prepared by mixing all samples in equal amounts, then measurement values can be corrected accurately, but preparation time increases and the number of samples analyzed per unit time decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement value correction accuracyVSAvoidnumber of samples analyzed per unit time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual pooled QC through computational methods instead of physically mixing samples. The system calculates expected pooled QC values by computationally combining measurement data from individual samples, then uses these calculated values for correction. This copying approach eliminates the time-consuming physical preparation while maintaining the correction accuracy that would result from actual pooled QC measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary computational preparation of reference values and correction factors using measurement data before the actual correction process. By pre-calculating the pooled QC characteristics and correction parameters from available sample data, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming post-measurement pooled QC preparation and measurement, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining correction accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If a pooled QC is prepared by mixing all samples, then correction can be performed for unknown components, but preparation becomes difficult for solid samples

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection capability for unknown componentsVSAvoidpooled QC preparation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical process of mixing solid or liquid samples to create pooled QC with a computational data processing system. Instead of physically combining samples, the system computationally aggregates measurement data from individual samples to generate virtual pooled QC values. This substitution eliminates preparation difficulties for solid samples while maintaining the ability to detect and correct unknown components through the same computational correction algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If pooled QC measurement is performed in between sample measurements, then measurement error can be corrected, but total measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement error correctionVSAvoidtotal measurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary computational calculation of pooled QC reference values and correction factors using measurement data that is already available before the correction step. By pre-computing correction parameters from initial sample measurements, the system eliminates the need for additional time-consuming pooled QC measurements in between samples, thereby reducing total measurement time while maintaining error correction capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250273449A1Data Processing Method, Information Processing Device and Computer Readable Medium
Publication Date: 2025.08.28 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US20250273449A1 patent drawing
  • US20250273449A1 patent drawing
  • US20250273449A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A data processing method is performed by a computer to correct measurement values of a prescribed component obtained by measurement with an analysis device. The data processing method includes: receiving the measurement values; and calculating a first reference value and a second reference value using the measurement values. The data processing method includes correcting the measurement values using the first reference value and the second reference value.