The aim of this study is to optimize the storage and shipping processes of Plasma Separation Cards (PSC) by developing a novel prototype designed to reduce manual labore and ensure sample integrity. An experimental design was employed to address current limitations in PSC handling. These limitations include labor-intensive processes and potential sample degradation. In this approach rigorous testing was done to evaluate the prototype's performance in various environments and different materials. The research in this study include lab testing of samples stored in the prototype, assessment of different storage conditions and analysis of shipping processes. The main research question was: “How can a prototype for PSC storage be optimized to reduce manual labor in PSC handling while ensuring sample integrity during storage and shipping?”. To answer this question the prototype was tested for its effectiveness in reducing storage space and facilitating automated handling The findings of this study show that the prototype that was created can significantly reduce the required storage space while still being usable by liquid handling robots. During the study it was noted that minor misalignment issues were present due to the limitations of the type of 3D printers used. These issues could be addressed with more precise printing technologies such as Stereolithography (SLA) or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Both materials used in this study, PLA (Polylactic acid) and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) materials were found suitable for storing PSC samples under most conditions. However, the measurements for the samples with PLA indicated limitations at 65 °C under certain conditions, making PETG a safer choice under higher temperature. The study contributes to the field by providing an innovating solution for PSC sampling that is scalable. This enhances the possibility for remote monitoring end predictive diagnostics. The prototype indicates a promising direction for future research and application and medical diagnostics by improving operational efficiency while aligning with sustainability goals. This study explores the following aspects: sample handling, storage and shipping. The practical implication includes reduced manual labor, minimized human error and increased efficiency for these aspects.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:uu-532472 |
| Date | January 2024 |
| Creators | Lundgren, Philip, Ghebreyesus, Adam |
| Publisher | Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för samhällsbyggnad och industriell teknik |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
| Relation | SAMINT-MILI ; 24013 |
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