Sample Handling as a Performance Factor: How Preanalytics Determines the Quality of IVD and Analytical Instruments

In the development of IVD and analytical instruments, the initial focus is often on detection methods, sensor technology, or analysis software. In practice, however, it becomes clear repeatedly that actual performance of a system is often determined even earlier – in sample handling and preanalytics. Samples must be reliably collected, transported, dispensed, prepared, and transferred to the next process step in a reproducible manner. It is precisely at this stage that many of the issues arise which later appear as unstable measurement results, insufficient robustness, or avoidable user errors. Sample handling is therefore not a secondary consideration, but a key performance factor in modern instruments.

In this context, JÜKE brings extensive experience from laboratory technology, analytical instrumentation, diagnostics, and sample handling. Successfully implemented projects consistently show that success is not determined by individual components alone, but by the interaction of fluidics, mechanics, interfaces, and process expertise. Particularly relevant topics include “disposable meets instrument” – that is, the secure and tolerance-robust interface between disposable components and the instrument, as well as automated sample preparation as the basis for stable and user-independent workflows. In addition, highly relevant technical details such as bubble management, dead volume, and reproducibility play a major role in determining a system’s actual performance and the quality of its measurement results.

JÜKE has particular expertise in sophisticated solutions for autosamplers and liquid handling across a wide volume range. Depending on the application, this includes the precise handling of standard liquid volumes as well as the reliable processing of just a few microliters. Especially in the lower volume range, dead volume, wetting behavior, bubble formation, material selection, and the precise design of fluidic pathways have a direct impact on precision and repeatability. In the higher volume range, on the other hand, the focus is on flow stability, cycle timing, process reliability, and robust design for continuous operation. Successful solutions can only be achieved when fluidic design, assembly development, and manufacturing-ready engineering are consistently considered together.

For manufacturers of IVD, diagnostic, and analytical instruments, this means that those who systematically address sample handling at an early stage not only improve technical performance but also enhance the product’s manufacturability and scalability. This is exactly where JÜKE’s strength lies. By combining development expertise, experience with complex instruments, and a deep understanding of sample handling as an integrated system, we create robust solutions that make sample handling a key performance factor from automated sample preparation and the interface between disposables and instruments to precise liquid handling with high reproducibility. In this way, a sensitive process step becomes a resilient competitive advantage.