Professional Documents
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VITROS 5,1 FS
SPECIFICATION FOR AUTOMATION INTERFACE
25 MAY 2005
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Part # J26605
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................... 4
1.1. Purpose .........................................................................................................................................................4
1.2. Scope .............................................................................................................................................................4
1.3. References.....................................................................................................................................................4
1.4. Definitions.....................................................................................................................................................4
1.5. Audience .......................................................................................................................................................5
1.6. General Description.....................................................................................................................................5
1.6.1. Document Structure ...............................................................................................................................5
1.6.2. Assumptions and Dependencies.............................................................................................................5
2. SOFTWARE INTERFACES ................................................................................... 7
2.1. Analyzer to Lab Automation System .........................................................................................................8
2.1.1. Message Format .....................................................................................................................................8
2.1.2. Cyclical Redundancy Checks.................................................................................................................8
2.1.3. Sample ID Encoding ..............................................................................................................................9
2.1.4. Sequence Numbers.................................................................................................................................9
2.1.5. Interface Initialization Sequence............................................................................................................9
2.1.6. Acknowledgments................................................................................................................................10
2.1.7. Interface Communication Failures .......................................................................................................10
2.1.8. Messages..............................................................................................................................................10
2.1.8.1. Message Acknowledged...............................................................................................................10
2.1.8.2. Message Not Acknowledged........................................................................................................11
2.1.8.3. Illegal Command Received ..........................................................................................................11
2.1.8.3.1. Error Types ...........................................................................................................................12
2.1.8.4. Query Analyzer Status .................................................................................................................12
2.1.8.5. Analyzer Status ............................................................................................................................13
2.1.8.5.1. Analyzer Status Codes .............................................................................................................13
2.1.8.6. Prepare To Run Sample ...............................................................................................................14
2.1.8.7. Sample In Position .......................................................................................................................15
2.1.8.8. Sampling Complete......................................................................................................................15
2.1.8.8.1. Metering Status Codes .............................................................................................................16
2.1.8.9. Reinitialize Communications .......................................................................................................17
2.1.8.10. Reinitialize Metering....................................................................................................................18
2.1.8.11. Sample Routed .............................................................................................................................18
2.1.8.12. Query Analyzer Inventory............................................................................................................19
2.1.8.13. Analyzer Inventory.......................................................................................................................19
2.1.8.14. Query Analyzer Resources...........................................................................................................20
2.1.8.15. Analyzer Resources......................................................................................................................20
2.1.9. Timing Requirements...........................................................................................................................21
2.2. Lab Automation Communication Scenarios............................................................................................22
3. HARDWARE INTERFACES ................................................................................ 31
3.1. Electrical Interface ....................................................................................................................................31
3.1.1. Analyzer to Lab Information System ...................................................................................................31
3.1.2. Analyzer to Lab Automation System ...................................................................................................31
3.1.3. Electrical Interface at Sample ..............................................................................................................31
3.2. Positional Requirements............................................................................................................................32
3.2.1. Assumptions.........................................................................................................................................32
3.3. Analyzer to Track positioning / Floor mounts or Anchors ....................................................................33
3.3.1. Types of floor mounts/ Anchors...........................................................................................................33
3.3.1.1. Standard Floor mounts / Anchors.................................................................................................33
3.3.1.2. Seismic Floor mounts /Anchors Catalog # 6802245 ....................................................................33
3.4. Sample Positioning and Adjustments.......................................................................................................34
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1. Introduction
1.1. Purpose
This document contains interface specifications to assist Lab Automation manufacturers in adapting Lab Automation
systems to the Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry System with AT Accessory.
1.2. Scope
This specification provides an understanding of interfaces between the Lab Automation Vendors and Ortho-
Clinical Diagnostics.
Information to be transmitted between the Lab Automation System and the VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry
System with AT Accessory
Format of information to be transmitted between the Lab Information System and the analyzer.
Physical relationships between the analyzer and the sample container
Sample container sizes and aspiration depths
Analyzer footprints and space envelopes
Operator and service access requirements to the analyzer
Analyzer environmental specifications
Analyzer sample throughput specifications
Electrical interconnects between Lab Automation System and analyzer.
Automation interface guidelines for accurate implementation of the Automation Interface Specification
Summary of considerations for Lab Automation System and Lab Information System architecture
Summary of Lab Automation Interface risk assessment
1.3. References
Site Specification for the VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry System, Publication No. J22961
1.4. Definitions
CRC: Cyclical Redundancy Checking. An error checking algorithm used to verify the integrity of an
electronic message
Asynchronous LIS Messages: A feature that enables the analyzer to send unsolicited status updates to the
LIS.
LAS: Lab Automation System. The transport system and controller that manages the movement of samples
from position to position within the lab.
LIS: Lab Information System responsible for data management, i.e., sample results, patient history.
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Sample Carrier: The device that holds the sample container and interfaces with the transport track to
facilitate movement from one location to another.
1.5. Audience
This document is intended for Lab Automation Vendors and Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics personnel who create
interfaces between an automated sample delivery system and the VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry System with AT
Accessory.
Manual (walk up) samples take priority over samples delivered by the automation system.
Calibration with fluids delivered by the automation track is not supported.
The analyzer uses a two port system to communicate and coordinate with lab automation. The LAS port
communication interface coordinates sample handling at the physical interface. Communication requiring
transfer of large amounts of data (sample programs, test results, etc.) occurs via the analyzers existing LIS
port.
The automation system handles movement of all samples not placed manually on the analyzer.
The automation system stops, captures, positions, and steadies the sample for fluid aspiration.
All required information for processing a sample will be supplied to the analyzer. The Lab Automation
System for each sample will supply items listed below before it is placed in position for metering but after the
Sampling Complete message for the previous sample.
- Sample ID
- Container type (diameter)
Sample programming for an individual sample must be downloaded prior to its presentation to the analyzer
if host query is not enabled.
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When using host query mode, the SAMPLE ROUTED message should be sent to the analyzer as soon as the
decision to route the sample to that analyzer has been made by the automation system. This will maximize
the time the analyzer has to complete the host query.
The automation system ensures the integrity of the sample identification for the sample being aspirated.
If the LAS has not just received a status message or SAMPLE COMPLETE response, the LAS queries the
analyzer for its current status before sending a PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE command.
The automation system must complete the following steps within the required time period after the
SAMPLING COMPLETE message is sent by the analyzer to guarantee maximum system throughput:
- Send the Sample ID information within a PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE message for the next
sample within 100 milliseconds of SAMPLE COMPLETE.
- Place the next sample into the aspiration position
- Send the SAMPLE IN POSITION message to the analyzer (no more than 6.4 seconds after the PREPARE
TO RUN SAMPLE command). The sample must be in position when this message is sent. Failure to meet
this 6.3-second time window will result in the sample not being processed by the analyzer.
The automation system must supply a setup mode used with the analyzers setup and adjustment mode. In
this mode, empty tubes are used to adjust the analyzers metering system to the location where aspiration will
be performed.
The AT Analyzer does not control devices mounted on the automation track.
The automation system must comply with the site specifications in order for analyzer doors and lids to open
and for waste containers to be easily emptied.
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2. Software Interfaces
This section describes how to process a sample on an analyzer in conjunction with a Lab Automation
System (LAS).
Sample programs describing the tests to be performed on specific samples must be downloaded to the
analyzer through its Lab Information Port or manually programmed using the analyzer GUI. The analyzer
stores these sample programs internally while waiting for a sample with a Sample ID matching one of the
sample programs to be placed on the analyzer.
Standard VITROS analyzers scan the tubes in the tray (once the Start Sampling target is touched)
attempting to match the bar coded sample ID to one of the sample programs already downloaded. The
sample program that is found for that ID is then performed on the sample.
Placing the sample, reading the sample ID, and making the Start Sampling switch must be performed by
the Lab Automation System. To accomplish this, the Lab Automation System moves a sample to the
analyzer on which it is to be run. The LAS must then coordinate with the analyzer to determine when the
sample can be placed into the correct position for aspiration. While the sample is being placed into position,
the LAS sends the analyzer a PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE message. The sample ID (read by the automation
system from the sample bar code) and the container type must be included in these messages to permit the
analyzer to begin processing the sample.
The analyzer uses the supplied sample ID to find the program to be run on the sample; then, starts aspirating
fluid from the sample container in order to run the requested tests. Once the analyzer has aspirated all the
fluid required to run the tests, the analyzer sends a SAMPLING COMPLETE message to the LAS. This
message tells the LAS that the sample may be removed from the sampling position and that it can replace
that sample with another. At this point, the LAS can move the samples and start a new sample. To
guarantee maximum system throughput, sample movement and transmission of commands must be
completed within the minimum times defined. Otherwise, delays can occur because the analyzer will need to
wait for its next cycle to process the request.
Analyzer
Lab
Automation
System Lab Automation Coordination Messages
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Communications between the analyzer and the Lab Automation system (LAS) will be performed using a
three wire RS-232 interface. This interface communicates time critical information between the LAS and
the analyzer, which is needed to maintain coordination of the automation system.
Message lengths shall be the total number of bytes in the message excluding the STX and ETX.
Reserved bytes of messages should be set to 0x00 but will be ignored by the analyzer.
Where message_length is the message length in bytes and message_bytes is the buffer containing the message
(excluding the STX, ETX and CRC bytes).
The CRC calculation excludes the STX, ETX, and the CRC sum byte.
Example in hex: 02 04 01 00 11 03. Where 02 is the STX and 03 is the ETX. The length is 04 and the
calculated CRC is 11.
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To enable the use of sequence numbers, the LAS shall use valid increasing sequence numbers in the ACK
messages it sends during the initialization sequence.
Messages originating from the LAS shall use one set of sequence numbers while messages originating from the
analyzer shall use another set of sequence numbers.
The analyzer will start the initialization sequence after a power up or automation task reset.
The LAS may initiate the initialization sequence by issuing a REINITIALIZE COMMUNICATIONS message with
the appropriate parameters to the analyzer.
The initialization sequence shall begin when the analyzer sends a READY message to the LAS consisting of an
STX followed by an ETX. After issuing the READY message the analyzer waits up to 1 second for the LAS to
respond. If the LAS does not respond within 1 second, the analyzer issues a second READY message and waits
one more second. If the LAS has still not responded after the second timeout period, the initialization
sequence is aborted.
When the LAS receives a READY message from the analyzer, the LAS begins sending ACK messages (with
sequence numbers, if desired). When the analyzer has received a maximum of three ACK messages (to
determine if it must use sequence numbers), it responds by issuing its own ACK message with appropriate
sequence number immediately followed by an analyzer status message.
ACK messages sent by the LAS during the initialization sequence should be separated by no more than 500ms.
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2.1.6. Acknowledgments
After a message is sent, the sender stops transmitting until an acknowledgment is received.
The receiver shall send an ACK message to the sender for every message with a valid CRC and no
communications error.
The receiver shall send a NAK message to the sender for every message received with an invalid CRC or a
communications error occurring during transmission (ex. parity error).
If sequence numbers are enabled, the receiver shall set the sequence number of the ACK or NAK message to the
sequence number of the message being acknowledged.
Any of the follow conditions shall cause an interface communication error on the analyzer.
The last byte of a message, based on the message length, was not received within 250ms from the STX.
The last byte of a message, based on the message length, was not an ETX.
See REINITIALIZE COMMUNICATIONS message for recovering from interface communication failures.
2.1.8. Messages
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Format:
byte 1: STX
byte 2: Message Length:
byte 3: Message Type = 0x01
byte 4: Sequence number
byte 5: CRC
byte 6: ETX
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2.1.8.3.1.Error Types
Format:
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byte 1: STX
byte 2: Message Length
byte 3: Message Type = 0x00
byte 4: Sequence number
byte 5, 6: Message ID = 0xC006
byte 7: CRC
byte 8: ETX
NOTE: This command should be performed before starting a new sample unless a
Sampling Complete response has just been received.
2.1.8.5.Analyzer Status
Description: This message will be sent by the analyzer in response to the QUERY ANALYZER
STATUS command or as an asynchronous message when the analyzer has completed
initialization. A status code of 0x00 indicates that the analyzer is ready to sample.
All other status codes indicate that the analyzer is not available.
Direction: Analyzer to LAS
Format:
byte 1: STX
byte 2: Message Length
byte 3: Message Type = 0x00
byte 4: Sequence number
byte 5, 6: Message ID = 0xC007
byte 7: Status Code
byte 8: CRC
byte 9: ETX
Status Codes:
0x00: Analyzer is ready to sample
0x01: Analyzer is busy performing an external sample
0x02: Analyzer is busy performing an internal sample
0x03: Analyzer is equilibrating
0x04: Analyzer has a fatal error, check LIS error messages (Inoperable)
0x05: Analyzer is not available (cartridge loading, diagnostics, etc.)
0x06: Analyzer has failed in the sample.
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Format:
byte 1: STX
byte 2: Message length
byte 3: Message Type = 0x00
byte 4: Sequence number
byte 5, 6: Message ID = 0xC005
byte 7: Metering Status
byte 8: Sample ID length in bytes
byte 9 thru n: Sample ID (15 characters maximum)
byte n + 2: CRC
byte n + 3: ETX
Metering Status:
0x00: As expected
0x01: No sample program for ID
0x02: Sample In Position not received in time
0x03: Completed with error, check error conditions and analyzer status
0x04: Manual (internal) sample has priority
0x05: Analyzer inoperable, query analyzer status
0x06: Duplicate sample id
0x07: Analyzer not available
0x08: Metering failed in the sample (dont move the sample)
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the analyzer does not ACK the message and issue the READY sequence, the error
cannot be recovered without operator intervention. This recovery type does not reset
the expected response at the analyzer.
2.1.8.10.Reinitialize Metering
Description: This message will be sent by the LAS to request the analyzer reinitialize the Sample
Metering subsystem. All subsystems that are INOP will be reinitialized.
This command will also reset the expected sample command on the analyzer back to
PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE. The REINITIALIZE METERING message may be used to
recover from logical order errors or if an error has caused the operator to remove a
sample which was in progress.
Direction: LAS to Analyzer
Format:
byte 1: STX
byte 2: Message Length
byte 3: Message Type = 0x00
byte 4: Sequence number
byte 5, 6: Message ID = 0xC008
byte 7: CRC
byte 8: ETX
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The automation system must complete the following steps within the required time period after the
SAMPLING COMPLETE message is sent by the analyzer to guarantee system throughput. Failure to
meet this timing will result in decreased analyzer throughput.
Time from SAMPLING COMPLETE to PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE - 100 milliseconds.
Time from SAMPLING COMPLETE to SAMPLE IN POSITION 6.4 seconds (6.5 seconds
after PREPARE TO RUN SAMPLE).
All ACK and NAK messages must be sent within 250ms of the received command/response.
ACK messages sent by the LAS during the initialization sequence should be separated by no more
than 500ms.
LAS commands sent to the analyzer must be spaced at least 100ms apart to allow the illegal
command response. This is to allow the analyzer time to respond with an ILLEGAL COMMAND
RECEIVED message if required.
The last byte of a message, based on the message length, must be received within 250ms from receipt
of the STX.
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READY
(if no response in 1 sec.)
Sequence Number = A
ACK
Sequence Number = A+1
ACK
ACK Sequence Number = A+2
(if no response in 0.5 sec.)
Sequence Number = A+2
ACK
Sequence Number = 0
Analyzer Status Message
Sequence Number = 0
ACK
Sequence Number = 1
Analyzer Status Message
Sequence Number = 1
ACK
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Sampling Complete
ACK
Sampling Complete
ACK
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Sampling Complete
ACK Did not sample
Manual sample had priority
Query Analyzer Status
ACK
Analyzer Status Message
ACK Manual operation
Sampling Complete
ACK
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Sampling Complete
ACK (Completed with error)
Sampling Complete
ACK
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Sample In Position
ACK
Sampling Complete
(Unknown Sample ID)
ACK
Sample In Position
ACK
Sampling Complete
ACK
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Sampling Complete
(Sample In Position Not Received In Time)
ACK
Sampling Complete
ACK
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Sample In Position
ACK
Sampling Complete
(Failed in Sample or
ACK Analyzer Inop)
Initialize Analyzer
ACK
NOTE: If the analyzer still reports a fatal condition after reinit an operator
must be called to check the analyzer. The module and error number reported
to the LIS will contain more information about the error.
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Sample Routed
(SID1)
ACK
Sample In Position
ACK
Sample Routed
(SID2) ACK
Sampling Complete
ACK
Sample In Position
ACK
Sampling Complete
ACK
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ACK
Analyzer Inventory
ACK (last message = 0x00)
Analyzer Inventory
ACK (last message = 0x00)
Analyzer Inventory
ACK (last message = 0x01)
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3. Hardware Interfaces
Full RS232 LAS communication interface. The following pins are used (analyzer side):
3 - transmitted data (TxD)
2 - receive data (RxD)
5 - circuit common
Communication parameters:
1 start bit
8 data bits
1 or 2 stop bits
EVEN, ODD or no parity
9600, 19200 or 38400 baud rate.
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This section describes the relative position between analyzer and the sample container. It is assumed that
the Lab Automation System will be able to capture and hold the sample container to allow direct aspiration
by the analyzer. The following assumptions apply relative to the interface between the two systems.
3.2.1. Assumptions
The analyzer will be located relative to the automation track through a supplied clamping mechanism
mounted to the floor.
The automation track can be configured to meet the analyzer requirements for sample tube height.
Reference section 3.4.4.
The analyzer will provide a limited amount of adjustment of the sample metering proboscis in the
direction (X direction) perpendicular sample travel path. The analyzer will also provide a limited
amount of adjustment of the sample metering proboscis in the vertical Z direction. Refer to Figure
3.1
The automation system must provide adjustability of the sample position along the track (Y
direction) in order to align the sample with the analyzer proboscis travel. Refer to Figure 3.1
Metering
Probe vertical
Z line of travel
Metering
Probe line of
travel
X
Direction of
Y
Sample travel
Figure 3.1
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It is highly recommended to check alignments of analyzer to track position, if it has been moved
(disengaged from anchors) for some reason. Reference section 3.4.2
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Maximum fluid aspiration depth is 3.86 inches (98mm) from top of the sample tube. Reference
section 4.1 for fill requirements.
For Aspiration, all sample tubes regardless of size are to be centered about the same vertical axis.
OCD provides a software adjustment for set-up at the customer site to align proboscis with the track.
The range of adjustment will be 50mm (2.0 inch) in X direction of metering probe travel. Refer to
Figure 3.6 section 3.4.3. Once this value is set, repeatability of positioning in X direction should
be +/- .028 inch (0.7 mm).
The following table indicates the alignment adjustment responsibilities for the sample position to the
aspiration probe for each degree of freedom in a three-dimensional space.
Adjustment Responsibility
Figure 3.2
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When the analyzer and the sample tube grasping/centering device Maximum Top of Tube Position
on the track are properly aligned, the proboscis with disposable
tip should travel to a depth of 98 mm in a 13mm diameter sample
tube, without touching the inside wall. This alignment is primarily
supported by the analyzer proboscis adjustment (horizontal and
perpendicular to sample travel) and sample position adjustment
along the track length.
Figure 3.4
(Dimensions shown are in mm)
Bottom of
Sample Tube
NCCLS
POR
Standard
850 +/- 10mm
Floor
Reference
100mm Distance
from Analyzer 260mm
Side panel to POR Distance from
back surface
of Analyzer to
Figure 3.5 POR
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100mm 4.0in
50mm 2.0in
Range of Analyzer adjustment in X direction
Back
Cabinetry
Panel of Figure 3.7
Analyzer
260 mm
10.25 in
POR in Y direction
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100mm
Tube
100mm
Tube
880mm
Maximum
830mm Distance to
Minimum Bottom of
Distance to 100mm Tube
Bottom of
100mm Tube
Floor Reference
Figure 3.8
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This section describes the overall size of the VITROS 5,1 FS with AT (Automation) Accessory. Refer to
Figure 3.9-3.11.
2647mm 104.2in
300mm
11.8 in
1084mm
42.68in
Floor
850mm
33.5 inch
8 inch
200mm
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The figure shown below displays the optional heat rejection plenum that diverts heat from the analyzer
directly into the customer ventilation system
Figure 3.12
383mm
15 inch
Figure 3.13
If a customer requires the heat rejection plenum, OCD and the automation vendor should review any possible
spatial conflicts. For additional information, refer to Site Specification for the VIRTROS 5,1 FS Chemistry
System Publication No. J22961.
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3.6.1. Analyzer
VITROS 5,1 FS site specifications are outlined in Publication No. J22961. Specification covers:
Deviations from site specifications should be reviewed with a Ortho Clinical Diagnostics Field Service
Representative.
It is recommended that the floor be level within one inch over 10 feet.
The analyzer requires service access from all four sides of the machine. Site Specification Publication No.
J22961 indicates the appropriate clearances. Access to the machine will depend on the track configuration
and is to be worked out between OCD and the automation vendor. Some general guidelines are:
Figure 3.14
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The analyzer contains air intake ports and exhaust ports. The location of these ports are shown in the figure
below. These ports must not be blocked.
Analyzer thermal characteristics are found in Site Specification Publication No. J22961
Figure 3.15
The VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry Systems is designed to meet Regulatory and Safety requirements for a
worldwide market.
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4. Sample Handling
Cups will NOT be accommodated by remote sampling but can be used for local (on-
analyzer) sampling.
Pediatric capillary draw tubes will NOT be accommodated by remote sampling but
can be used for local (on-analyzer) sampling.
The sample automation system should allow for primary tube sampling.
If secondary aliquot tubes are used, they should minimize:
- Sample contamination with microorganisms
- Out-gassing of volatile sample constituents
- Long term sample degradation
Sample caps should be replaced on the sample container shortly after testing has been completed. This
will help to ensure sample quality for any follow-up testing that may be required.
For installations in brightly lighted areas, opaque or amber shielding of the tubes or opaque or amber
tubes will help maintain sample quality.
Installations with high particulate counts should have dust baffles positioned to protect open sample
containers.
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5.1. Introduction
5.2. Audience
These guidelines are primarily designed as a communications tool for both the Lab Automation
Supplier and Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. personnel to ensure that the appropriate interfaces
have been addressed.
5.3. Approach
These guidelines address the actual Analyzer to Lab Automation interface by reviewing both the
software and physical interfaces. The software interfaces include the Analyzer to LAS connection
as well as the Analyzer to LIS connection. The physical interface includes topics such as track
height and analyzer aspirate depth, as well as maintenance and serviceability issues.
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This section tests for compliance with the analyzer/LAS communications protocol
described in the following section of the automation interface specification:
Section 2.1.8.5, Analyzer Status
Item Action Expected Result Actual Result
1 From the LAS, send a QUERY The analyzer acknowledges
ANALYZER STATUS the QUERY ANALYZER
command. Then, from the STATUS command. The LAS
analyzer, send an ANALYZER acknowledges the ANALYZER
STATUS response. STATUS response.
2 Repeat step 1, sending back all The LAS accurately interprets
possible Analyzer Status and takes appropriate action
codes. for each ANALYZER STATUS
(may need a simulator) response.
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This section tests functionality and commands described in the following sections of the
automation interface specification:
Section 2.1.8.8, Sampling Complete
This section tests for compliance with the analyzer/LAS communications protocol
described in the following sections of the Automation Interface Specification:
Section 2.1.8.1, Message Acknowledged
Section 2.1.8.2, Message Not Acknowledged
Section 2.1.8.3, Illegal Command Received
Section 2.1.8.9, Reinitialize Communications
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This section tests for compliance with the analyzer/LAS communications protocol
described in the following sections of the Automation Interface Specification:
Section 2.1.8.11, Sample Routed
This section tests for compliance with the analyzer/LAS communications protocol
described in the following sections of the Automation Interface Specification:
Section 2.1.8.12, Query Analyzer Inventory
Section 2.1.8.13, Analyzer Inventory
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This section tests for compliance with the analyzer/LAS communications protocol
described in the following sections of the Automation Interface Specification:
Section 2.1.8.14, Query Analyzer Resources
Section 2.1.8.15, Analyzer Resources
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7. Instrument-Based Testing
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8. Physical Interfaces
This section reviews the physical interfaces between the Lab Automation System and
the VITROS 5,1 FS Chemistry System with AT Accessory. Prior to the start of this
evaluation, set up and adjust the analyzer to track interface following the installation
procedure found in the Installation Instructions, J26396. Temporary placement of floor
mounts can be accomplished using double-sided tape.
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9. LAS/LIS Architecture
LIS LAS
AT 1
5,1
FS
AT 2
9.2.1. Case 1
The LAS does not intercept LIS to instrument communication. Automation samples can be run on any instrument. All
instruments do not need to be on the Automation system. Caution: The LAS must notify the LIS of any samples it creates.
The LIS will then broadcast download that sample ID to all instruments capable of running that sample. The LIS will need
to create an entry in its database to receive the results of this newly created sample. If the LIS downloads both the primary
sample ID and the aliquoted sample ID, the LIS must make sure to auto-delete both periodically.
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9.2.2. Case 2
The LAS intercepts LIS to instrument communication. Automation Samples can only run on track. Caution: The LAS
should coordinate forwarding of LIS information, including deletions, sent to it, to insure that sample programming is
present at the instrument prior to a sample being presented. This can be done if the LAS implements a broadcast download
methodology and automatically deletes any residual information. The LAS is solely responsible for the management of
samples it creates. Additionally, the LAS must provide a recovery/backup mode in case the LAS intercepted LIS
communication link goes down.
9.2.3. Case 3
The LAS intercepts LIS to instrument communications. Automation sample required to run on any instruments in the lab.
Approach 1: Similar in concept to case 2, with the addition of the LAS being required to transmit a sample created
message to the LIS. The LIS is then responsible for broadcasting this information to instruments that are not on the LAS.
In this case the LIS sends broadcasts and deletions to the LAS and other instrumentation. The LAS decides to forward the
information as it chooses. Additionally, the LAS must provide a recovery/backup mode in case the LAS intercepted LIS
communication link goes down.
Approach 2: This is similar to case 1, with the only change being that the LAS is responsible for all instrument LIS
communication, even if the instrument is not attached to the track. Therefore the LAS may also broadcast and delete
sample IDs it created. Additionally, the LAS must provide a recovery/backup mode in case the LAS intercepted LIS
communication link goes down.
LIS LIS
5,1 5,1
FS FS
LAS LAS
LAS LAS
LAS LAS
LIS LIS
LIS LIS
AT 2 AT 2
AT 1 AT 1
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These considerations are listed so that automation vendors will understand the need for strict compliance with
analyzer protocols. Lab automation system designers are strongly encouraged to consider these possible risks when
designing interfaces between these products. If the analyzer is used in a manner not specified by Ortho-Clinical
Diagnostics, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Risks that are strictly controlled within the
AT analyzer and that were considered during the analyzers design are not shown below.
Particulate contamination of sample Contamination or Remove stopper from sample tubes as close to
on automation track. degradation of sample the analyzer as possible to maintain sample
quality.
Evaporation or out-gassing while Degradation of sample Remove stopper from sample tubes as close to
sample tube is on automation track. analyzer as possible to maintain sample quality.
Cross contamination from adjacent Contamination or Set up automation systems to handle samples in
sample on automation track. degradation of sample a manner that prevents cross-contamination.
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Misalignment of automation track Sample aspirate volume Follow specifications for sample tube location
with AT analyzer. error specified in Section 4.
EMI from automation track to AT Sample aspirate volume Ensure that automation track meets agency
analyzer via coupling. error specifications.
Isolate the mechanical coupling between the
sample automation track and the analyzer to
address potential EMI concerns.
Over-wet sample tip or aspiration of Sample aspirate volume Utilize error checking communication protocol
air because tube diameter error (CRC).
information from automation system Follow communications specifications in
is incorrect. Section 2.
Sample tube breaks at automation System synchronization Refer to acceptable sample tube sizes for the
track and AT analyzer interface. or timing error specified in Section 4.
Design sample tube height detection as a feature
of the sample track.
Detect time-out of sample metering subsystem
and communicate error to LAS/LIS.
Communication error between the System synchronization/ Follow communications specifications in
AT analyzer and the LAS. timing error Section 2.
Incorrect sample presented to AT Aspirate from incorrect Ensure integrity of the sample ID communicated
analyzer. sample to the analyzer and positioning of that sample.
Sample ID mis-communicated from Aspirate from incorrect Verify sample ID in the sample complete
LAS. sample message sent to LAS.
Automation track system misreads Aspirate from incorrect Use barcode verification for labels (i.e. check
sample tube/carrier barcode. sample digit) and limit scanner view to one sample.
Inadequate consumables (reagents, Test not completed Send analyzer resource inventory to LIS upon
tips, etc.) on analyzer to complete request
the test. Verify adequate supplies by LAS via LIS.
If supplies are inadequate, we recommend that the
LAS reroute the sample to another analyzer in
this event.
STAT sample on the track is A STAT sample on the
unknown to the analyzer. (All track may not be Place STAT samples on the analyzer manually
samples on the analyzer have processed in a timely and process as local locate-loaded samples.
priority over samples on the track.) fashion
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