Multi-agent model of a sample transport system for modular in-vitro diagnostics laboratories

Abstract

Thousands of sample measurements for clinical analyses in large hospitals are made every day, which requires laboratories with modular analyzer systems that can operate with reliability and adaptability. In this paper we propose to transform a conventional, centrally controlled laboratory facility to a multi-agent system in order to distribute the control and make it more adaptable to priority samples and other unexpected events. The conversion requires replacing passive sample transport systems of laboratories by colonies of robots, which become the transportation agents. These multi-agent systems are completed by agents for the analyzers and the ones related to management software of laboratories. Result systems are compatible with the conventional ones so laboratories could be transformed in a straightforward way.