Workflow Timing Between Analytical Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current analytical systems for diagnostics lack an optimized workflow timing across modules, leading to inefficiencies in sample preparation, processing, and analysis, which hampers high-throughput capabilities.

Innovation Solution

An automated multi-modular system where a liquid sample containing an analyte is transferred through distinct modules for isolation, purification, and analysis, with pre-defined timing for each module to optimize workflow and enhance throughput.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If modules operate without pre-defined timing coordination, then each module can function independently with flexibility, but the overall workflow timing is not optimized and throughput is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovethroughputVSAvoidworkflow coordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-defines the timing for transfer and processing within each module type before actual operation. This preliminary timing configuration enables synchronized module operations, optimizes overall workflow timing, and achieves high throughput without requiring complex real-time coordination mechanisms during runtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If multiple modules process samples sequentially without optimized timing, then each processing step can be completed thoroughly, but the overall analysis time increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidtotal analysis time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements continuous workflow by pre-defining timing parameters that enable seamless transfer of samples between modules without idle waiting periods. Each module operates in continuous coordination with others, eliminating gaps in the processing chain and maximizing the utilization of all module capacities throughout the analysis period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically coordinates module operations through pre-defined timing that adapts to different analyte types and processing requirements. This dynamic timing configuration allows the workflow to optimize processing speeds and transfer intervals based on specific analytical needs while maintaining continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9678092B2Workflow timing between modules
Publication Date: 2017.06.13 ROCHE MOLECULAR SYSTEMS INC
  • US9678092B2 patent drawing
  • US9678092B2 patent drawing
  • US9678092B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method of isolating and analyzing an analyte using an analytical apparatus which comprises modules of different types, wherein any one module of one type has a specific, pre-defined timing for carrying out its workflow.