Data information system, automated

As failure data relating to mechanical components differ widely from source to source, TNO has set up a documentation system in which all relevant information is stored in one, uniform automated code called COMPI, which uses a component description code for the following information system of... 

FIGURE 8.1 Laboratory automation, information and data management system flowchart. 

Lloyd et al.1 described automation processes for compound optimization and simultaneous implementation of (1) a LIMS system to automate and track the flow of sample information, data analysis, and reporting (2) an automated data archiving system to handle a large number of LC/ MS/MS data files (3) custom software to track a large number of protocol flows and (4) workstation automation. 

The brand file and random smoking plans are central to the whole automation design philosophy. The brand file was the first segment of the system to undergo major revision when the data handhng moved from the bureau to the in-house computer. The information on the brand file not only enables an analyst to monitor certain administrative requirements on behalf of the customer, but also allows the file itself to accompHsh most of the control functions required by the data processing system. The software to drive this expanded brand file runs interactively from a terminal in the laboratory and gives the analyst the abihty to update and maintain the file, and exert a measure of control over the whole system. 

Computers and computer telecommunications are integral components of the entire analytical and reporting process and control the data input, operation, monitoring, and data reporting functions in automated analyzers. Also, workstations have been used to integrate the operation of one or more laboratory analyzers. Individual analyzers and/or their workstations are electronically interfaced with large central data repositories on laboratory information systems (LIS) and/or laboratory automation systems (LAS) (see Chapter 18). 

The NCCLS has an Area Committee on Automation and Informatics, which oversees the above standards and initiates new standards development projects. Current standards development projects include Data Content for Specimen Identification, Protocols to Vafidate Laboratory Information Systems, and Remote Access to Hospital Diagnostic Devices via tihe internet. In 2002, ASTM transferred to NCCLS the ownership and copyright of aU nine standards in its E31.13 group, including the two standards referenced above. These standards all relate to the clinical laboratory, with some of them simply preceding or overlapping the NCCLS automation standards. NCCLS is now in the process of evaluating which of these standards will be maintained and updated and which may be abandoned. 

The PROTECT architecture consists of sensors deployed in various subway stations, complemented by closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras that have automated and manual pan-tilt-zoom capabilities. These sensor and camera combinations provide data continuously to a centralized chemical-biological emergency management information system (CB-EMIS developed by Argonne National Laboratory) located in a centralized WMATA operations control center. In addition to the sensor and video data from the stations, train operation data and ambient meteorological data are also ported to the CB-EMIS system. Under normal operations, CB-EMIS can provide operator access to the multiple fixed and movable cameras throughout the metro system to assist law enforcement officers or firefighters. It also monitors the status of the sensor systems deployed in the metro. 

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