Visual Sample Tracking in LC-MS Auto-Sampler
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analysis systems face challenges in accurately tracking the correspondence between sample containers in the preprocessing device and the analysis device, leading to potential misidentification and incorrect disposal or selection of samples, especially when dealing with large numbers of samples.
Innovation Solution
An automatic analysis system that includes a preprocessing device, an analysis device, a sample container identifier management unit, and a display processing unit to visually display the arrangement of sample containers in both devices on the same screen, ensuring accurate identification and tracking of sample positions through unique identifiers and real-time progress updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large number of sample containers are placed in the sample placement section of the preprocessing device and the auto-sampler, then batch analysis of multiple samples can be performed efficiently, but it becomes difficult for operators to grasp the correspondence relationship between sample positions in the preprocessing device and the auto-sampler
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by creating a visual representation (display image) that replicates the physical arrangement of sample containers in the preprocessing device and auto-sampler. This display image serves as a copy or map of the actual sample positions, allowing operators to track correspondence without physically locating each sample container. The system generates and displays this visual copy on a screen, enabling operators to identify sample positions and correspondence relationships through the displayed image rather than manual tracking.
2Extent of automation
If sample containers are arranged in different positions in the preprocessing device and auto-sampler according to automated processing requirements, then efficient automated analysis can be performed, but operators cannot easily identify which sample containers correspond to each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by providing real-time visual information about sample container positions and correspondence relationships through a display device. The system continuously updates the display image to reflect the current state of sample containers in both the preprocessing device and auto-sampler, giving operators feedback about where samples are located and how they correspond between devices. This visual feedback mechanism ensures that correspondence information is not lost during automated processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The display image acts as an intermediary between the physical sample containers and the operator's knowledge of sample positions. Rather than requiring operators to directly track physical sample containers through automated processing, the system introduces this visual intermediary that represents sample positions and correspondence relationships. The intermediary translates complex spatial relationships into an easily interpretable visual format.
3Speed
If the system automatically transfers preprocessed samples from the preprocessing device to the auto-sampler without visual tracking, then processing speed is improved, but the risk of misidentification and incorrect sample handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by displaying the arrangement of sample containers and their correspondence relationships before the automated transfer process occurs. The system prepares and shows the sample position information in advance, allowing operators to verify and understand the sample correspondence before automated processing begins. This preliminary visual information helps prevent misidentification during the actual transfer operation.
Data Source
AI summary
On a device state confirmation screen (100), a first sample arrangement image (111) showing a top-view image of a sample placement section in a preprocessing device for performing preprocessing of removal of proteins or the like and a second sample arrangement image (121) showing a top-view image of a sample placement section of an auto-sampler of an LC-MS are simultaneously displayed. In the respective sample arrangement images (111, 121), a placement position of a vial is indicated by a circular region (113, 122), and the same vial number A1, A2, . . . , is assigned to a vial in which one culture medium sample is accommodated and a vial in which a preprocessed sample is accommodated. Further, circular regions 113 and 122 are displayed in different display colors depending on a state of progress of the preprocessing operation and the analysis operation. As a result, an operator can visually recognize easily and assuredly the correspondence relationship between positions of a large number of vials placed in the sample placement section and positions of a large number of vials accommodating preprocessed samples placed in the auto-sampler, which prevents erroneous selection of samples.