Modular analyte sensing system

Abstract

A removable cartridge is disclosed that is configured to receive one or more fluid samples for analysis. The cartridge includes a plurality of sample wells. Each of the sample wells includes a sensor having a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The electrode is arranged to contact a sample fluid. The base is configured to receive the cartridge. The base is configured to transmit and receive a signal to the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base. The controller is configured to exchange signals with the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode. The controller is configured to identify each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to determine a state of each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to perform an analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 380,550, filed on October 21, 2022, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to devices and methods for detecting analytes within fluid samples. Background Art

[0003] Traditional methods of bioanalysis include preparing a sample containing a target analyte and analyzing the analyte using analyte - specific chemical methods (e.g., detecting the analyte by attaching to it). Preparation of the sample can include stripping the biological matrix of the sample from the analyte to be detected to present a "clean" sample for detection. Detection can be performed by a sensor including a physical transducer that converts information about the presence of the analyte into a measurable signal (either via an intermediate binding step or directly as in mass spectrometry). The interaction of the transducer with the analyte to be detected may require an intermediate cleaning step to ensure that there is no interference from transducer signals of other biological species in the stripped and sample - prepared matrix.

[0004] Traditional methods may require the combination of target - specific chemicals, biological reagents, and cleaning steps as part of a multi - step protocol in analyte detection. The use of these target - specific chemicals, biological reagents, and cleaning steps also requires prior assumptions / knowledge of the target to be detected as part of the workflow. Additionally, the sample may need to be prepared again each time a new analyte in the sample needs to be analyzed. Thus, traditional bioanalysis methods can be cumbersome, inefficient, and expensive. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates to techniques regarding modular analyte sensing systems.

[0006] One example implementation of the subject matter described within the present disclosure is an analyte sensing system having the following features. A removable cartridge includes sample wells. Each sample well is configured to receive a sample fluid for analysis. A base is configured to receive the cartridge. The base is configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base.

[0007] Aspects of the example analyte sensing system that can be combined with the example analyte system, either individually or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Each sample well in the sample wells includes a sensor having the following features. A first electrode is arranged to contact the sample fluid. A second electrode is arranged to contact the sample fluid. A third electrode is arranged to contact the sample fluid.

[0008] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with an example analyte system, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The base includes the following features. The socket is configured to receive electrical pins coupled to a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The controller is coupled to the socket. The controller is configured to direct signal exchange with the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode through the socket and the pins.

[0009] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with an example analyte system, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The controller is configured to identify each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to determine the status of each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to direct the performance of an analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells. The controller is configured to generate a spectrum based on the performed analysis.

[0010] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with an example analyte system, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The controller is further configured to determine the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

[0011] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with an example analyte system, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The controller is further configured to upload the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

[0012] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with an example analyte system, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The cartridge includes a swing linkage mechanism configured to separate the cartridge from the base.

[0013] An example implementation of the subject matter described within this disclosure text is a method having the following features. A removable cartridge is received by a base. The cartridge includes a plurality of sample wells. Each sample well of the cartridge is identified. The status of each sample well of the cartridge is determined. An analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells is performed. A spectrum is generated based on the performed analysis.

[0014] Aspects of an example method that can be combined with an example method, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Determining the status can include the following. Determining the identification of the sample well. Looking up the usage history of the sample well. Determining the suitable-for-use status of the sample well.

[0015] Aspects of an example method that can be combined with an example method, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The suitable-for-use status is determined based at least on the following criteria: the date of the last use of the sample well and the date of the last maintenance of the sample well.

[0016] Aspects of an example method that can be combined with an example method, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Looking up the usage history includes querying a lookup table.

[0017] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. A status indicating that a sample well is not available for use. In such a case, the sample well is locked to prevent analysis operations.

[0018] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. A status indicating that a sample well is available for use. In such a case, the sample well is made available for analysis operations.

[0019] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Maintenance of the cartridge.

[0020] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. The maintenance of the cartridge includes replacing a plurality of sample wells or cleaning the sample wells.

[0021] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Determining the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

[0022] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Determining the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum includes the following. Generating a reference spectrum from a reference sample. Comparing the generated spectrum with the reference spectrum.

[0023] Aspects of the example methods that can be combined with the example methods, either alone or in combination with other aspects, include the following. Uploading the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

[0024] An example implementation of the subject matter described within this disclosure is an analyte sensing system having the following features. A removable cartridge is configured to receive one or more fluid samples for analysis. The cartridge includes a plurality of sample wells. Each of the sample wells in the cartridge includes a sensor having a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The electrodes are arranged to contact the sample fluid. A base is configured to receive the cartridge. The base is configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base. The base includes the following features. A socket is configured to receive electrical pins coupled to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode. A controller is coupled to the socket. The controller is configured to direct signals through the socket and the pins and exchange signals with the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode. The controller is configured to identify each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to determine the status of each sample well of the cartridge. The controller is configured to direct the performance of an analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells. The controller is configured to generate a spectrum based on the performed analysis. The controller is configured to determine the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

[0025] Aspects of an example analyte sensing system that can be combined with the example analyte sensing system alone or in combination with other aspects include the following. The controller is further configured to upload the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

[0026] A non - transitory computer program product (i.e., a physically embodied computer program product) storing instructions is also described, which instructions, when executed by one or more data processors of one or more computing systems, cause at least one data processor to perform the operations herein. Similarly, a computer system is also described that can include one or more data processors and a memory coupled to the one or more data processors. The memory can temporarily or permanently store instructions that cause at least one processor to perform one or more of the operations described herein. Additionally, the method can be implemented by one or more data processors within a single computing system or distributed between two or more computing systems. Such computing systems can be connected and can exchange data and / or commands or other instructions etc. via one or more connections, including connections through a network (e.g., the Internet, a wireless wide area network, a local area network, a wide area network, a wired network, etc.), via a direct connection between one or more of the multiple computing systems, etc.

[0027] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. In addition to the illustrative embodiments and features described herein, additional aspects, embodiments, objects, and features of the present disclosure will become fully apparent from the drawings and the detailed description and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] These and other aspects will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a fully assembled example modular analyte system.

[0030] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system with the cartridge removed from the base.

[0031] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the base of an example modular analyte system.

[0032] Figure 4A is a top perspective view of an example modular analyte system cartridge.

[0033] Figure 4B is a perspective view of the interior of the analyte system.

[0034] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of an example modular analyte system cartridge.

[0035] Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge.

[0036] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge.

[0037] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of an exemplary sample well.

[0038] Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary well with a single sensor.

[0039] Figure 10 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary well with multiple sensors.

[0040] Figure 11 is a diagram showing communication between a modular analyte system, a cloud service, and a local computer.

[0041] Figure 12 is a block diagram of an exemplary controller that can be used with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 13 is a flowchart of an exemplary method that can be used with aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The present disclosure generally relates to characterizing a sample (e.g., an electrochemical solution including an analyte and a redox species). Methods for characterizing a biological sample can include a general (e.g., not specific to a given analyte due to analyte - specific chemical methods) and simplified (e.g., requiring little sample preparation) workflow. In some implementations, the methods rely on a biological sample measurement method (e.g., via a sensor platform including consumables and instrumentation) and a data analysis stack implemented with machine learning (ML), where an appropriate analysis can be customized from a set of available ML models to predict sample phenotypes or the quantification of specific biological properties, including biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity.

[0044] The present disclosure describes an analyte sensing system having a removable cartridge that includes a plurality of sample wells configured to receive a sample fluid for analysis. A base is configured to receive the cartridge. The base is configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base. In some implementations, the base can additionally communicate (exchange information) with a computer, a cloud service, or both.

[0045] A determination is described as a process of assigning a phenotypic class to a sample or evaluating the expression / concentration of one or more analytes in a sample. In some implementations, a system (or sensor platform) for performing a determination can include three elements: a consumable, an instrument, and one or more computing systems and analysis software stacks for performing feature set extraction (e.g., from raw data obtained by detection through the consumable / instrument).

[0046] Each element of the system can have multiple implementations. The customer workflow and the type of sample being analyzed can inform each implementation. For example, the selection of a particular implementation may require an evaluation of the trade-off between throughput, power, coverage area, and the desired noise power spectral density (PSD) performance. In some implementations, the consumable and / or the instrument can be modified to suit a particular application.

[0047] The consumable can include a sensor having an interface geometry configured to dock with a sample containing an analyte. The interface geometry can include the nanoscale electrochemical interfaces described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 016,468, U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 317,422, and U.S. Patent No. 9,285,336, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The consumable can be integrated with a sample collection mechanism (e.g., a syringe, a pipette, a breath analyzer). Alternatively, the consumable can be integrated with a sample storage device (e.g., a storage cap, a vial / tube, a vacuum container, a beaker, a dry card, a microtiter plate, a culture / other flask, a microfluidic cartridge, etc.). In some implementations, the consumable and / or the instrument can be integrated with a sample handling robot. The instrument can be integrated with the consumable (e.g., can be configured to receive an electrical signal indicative of the detection by the consumable). The instrument can have low throughput (e.g., single consumable read), medium throughput (e.g., 6 consumable reads), or high throughput (e.g., 24 to 1536 consumable reads). Medium throughput and high throughput instruments can perform multiple readouts / scans of samples across multiple consumables.

[0048] The computation of the raw data obtained by the instrument (e.g., using a machine learning model) can be performed locally (e.g., local computation) or in the cloud (cloud computing). Determining whether to perform the computation locally, in the cloud, or a combination thereof can be based on the internet connection, the need to maintain data security, and / or the desire to obtain results quickly.

[0049] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally identify like components unless the context dictates otherwise. The illustrative alternatives described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other alternatives may be used and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects, as generally described herein and shown in the drawings, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form a part of this application.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms, symbols, and other scientific terms or expressions used herein are intended to have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. In some instances, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and / or for ease of reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein need not be construed as representing a substantial difference from what is generally understood in the art. Many of the techniques and procedures described or referenced herein are well understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and are generally employed by those of ordinary skill in the art using conventional methods.

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example modular analyte system 100 that is assembled. System 100 includes a removable cartridge 102 having one or more sample wells 104. Each sample well 104 is configured to receive a sample fluid for analysis. A base 106 is configured to receive the cartridge. The base 106 is configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge 102 when the cartridge 102 is received by the base 106.

[0052] Focusing on the cartridge 102, in some implementations, the cartridge 102 is a stand-alone plug-in into which the user can place the received individual wells 104 and attach the wells 104 to the cartridge 102 using a locking mechanism (not shown). Each well can be marked with an identifier such as a barcode, radio frequency identification (RFID), and / or another identifier. In such an implementation, the identifier is configured to transmit a unique well ID to a cloud gateway 1102 ( Figure 11 ). More details regarding such operations are explained throughout this disclosure. In some implementations, the well ID has been written to a cartridge memory 502 during the manufacture and assembly of the cartridge 102 ( Figure 5 ). In such an implementation, the user receives a cartridge 102 with the wells 104 already loaded and fastened within the cartridge 102.

[0053] In some implementations, the well 104 is shipped to the user as a separate unit. In such an implementation, the user loads the well into the cartridge 102, uses the well 104 for sample measurement, and then discards the used well 104. That is, in such an implementation, the well 104 is a disposable, single-use item. In some implementations, the cartridge 102 is shipped with the wells 104 already integrated. In such an implementation, the user can empty the wells 104 of all liquid electrolytes and samples and then ship the emptied cartridge back to the manufacturer or service provider for servicing the cartridge 102. In some implementations, the wells 104 are replaced during such servicing.

[0054] The base 106 is prepared and provided as part of the manufacturing such that the base 106 and / or the cartridge 102 are made available to a designated user via a cloud service. The provisioning and preparation also create a secure communication port between the modular analyte system 100 and the cloud service 1102( Figure 11 ).

[0055] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system 100 with the cartridge 102 removed from the base 106. As shown, the base 106 includes a receptacle 202 configured to receive the electrical pins 204 of the cartridge 102. Some of these electrical pins are coupled to electrodes (902, 802, 804). The receptacle is coupled to a controller( Figure 12 ) configured to exchange signals with the cartridge via the receptacle 202 and the pins 204.

[0056] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system base 106. The base 106 houses an electrochemical instrument device 450( Figure 4B ) configured to scan sensors 904( Figure 1 ) applied to the well 104( Figure 9) The voltage bias is applied. The applied bias is adjusted by a second electrode 802 also in the sample well 104. Details regarding such processes are described in U.S. Patent No. 11,103,581, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The instrument 450 provides feedback regulation of the bias applied between the sensor 904 and the first electrode 804 by supplying current via the second electrode 802 to maintain the bias at a desired set point. The instrument 450 also measures the supplied current and provides components for applying a desired bias to the shield electrodes surrounding the sensing interface to mitigate stray parasitic capacitance. To support simultaneous measurements of all wells 104, the base 106 can hold a separate printed circuit board for each well 104, which in one implementation performs feedback regulation and current measurement. In some implementations, the feedback regulation and current measurement circuitry can be integrated on a single board. In some implementations, the different biases applied to the sensor are sourced from a voltage reference integrated circuit.

[0057] The base can include a heat sink 468 and isolators to reduce heating of the sample wells 104 from power dissipated by the base electronics. Alternatively or additionally, a fan 452 is attached to the base 106 to provide forced convection cooling of the base 106. The housing of the base 106 chassis defines an array of holes to facilitate air circulation to cool the system to a desired specification for temperature-resistant operation of the measurements. In some implementations, the base 106 houses temperature sensors at multiple locations to record the ambient temperature during measurements. The base 106 can include an electrical shield to protect sensitive electrical measurements from being disrupted by stray electrical interference from the surrounding environment or adjacent circuitry. Alternatively or additionally, the base 106 includes an accelerometer to monitor mechanical shocks to the instrument during measurements. Such an accelerometer can be used to measure physical acceleration (rapid movement) and generate a record of mechanical shocks to the instrument chassis to evaluate measurement integrity.

[0058] In some implementations, the base 106 is powered by a standard electrical outlet (e.g., 120 volts or 240 volts outlet). In some implementations, a voltage converter (e.g., transformer, voltage divider) can be included. In any case, power is received by the power port 302. Alternatively or additionally, the base 106 can include a battery. The base 106 is configured to connect to the Internet, for example, via an Ethernet or Universal Serial Bus (USB) port 304. In some implementations, the base 106 includes a wireless antenna configured to allow the base 106 to connect to the Internet via a wireless network.

[0059] In operation, a controller 454 within the base 106 biases a voltage reference signal to a sensor interface 456 and to a shield surrounding the sensor interface 456, relative to a first electrode 804, e.g., via a board 450. Additionally, an adjustment voltage signal is applied to a second electrode 802 in the aperture, as directed by the controller 454 (e.g., by the board 450). For all apertures 104, these signals are transferred between the base 106 and the cartridge 102 via a socket 202 and pins 204. Signals from one or more temperature sensors in the cartridge 102 are also routed to the controller 454 via the socket 202 and pins 204.

[0060] Figure 4A is a top perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge 102. The sample apertures 104 are fastened to cavities in the cartridge 102 by guiding features imprinted on the outer edges of the apertures 104 to maintain alignment of the apertures 104 with spring-loaded electrical connectors 460 in the cartridge sockets 202. A mechanical or magnetic clamping mechanism 464 applies vertical pressure to maintain good electrical contact between the aperture sensors 904 and the spring-loaded connectors 460. The connectors permit application of sensor-to-first electrode bias, shield bias, and current adjustment signals at the second electrode 802. In some implementations, all sample apertures 104 are identical to one another. In some implementations, each sample aperture includes one to four integrated sensors. In some implementations, the sample apertures 104 may have different configurations, e.g., different sample apertures may include different numbers of sensors.

[0061] Figure 4B is a perspective view of the interior of the analyte system 100. In some implementations, spring connectors 460 within the cartridge 102 facilitate electrical connection between sensors 904 on each aperture 104 and a printed circuit board 462 within the cartridge 102. The circuit board 462 is configured to carry and / or direct a large number of signals from the apertures to the underlying base.

[0062] In some implementations, the cartridge 102 includes a memory that stores a unique identifier for the cartridge 102 and, in some implementations, unique identifiers for the apertures 104 associated with the cartridge 102. These details are written to the cartridge memory 502 during assembly of the cartridge 102. Once a scan has been performed on a sample in an aperture 104, the cartridge memory 502 may also record that the aperture 104 has been used for measurement. Alternatively or additionally, such records may be recorded to a database coupled to or associated with a cloud service 1102.

[0063] In some implementations, the cartridge 102 includes a heat sink and / or a thermal isolation plate to thermally isolate the apertures 104 from heat sources. In some implementations, an electrical shield is also incorporated to prevent electromagnetic interference from corrupting measurements performed in the apertures 104.

[0064] Figure 5 is a top view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge 102. Pins 204 extend vertically from the lower surface 504 of the cartridge 102 to mate with sockets 202 of the base 106, as described above. The pins are coupled to different electrodes (902, 802, 804) within different apertures 104. In some implementations, additional pins may be used for power and data transfer, e.g., to indicate data indicative of a suitable state for use of the apertures 104. In some implementations, the pins may be coupled to a cartridge memory, and the base 106 is capable of reading from and / or writing to the cartridge memory 502.

[0065] Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge 102. Figure 7 is a side perspective view of an exemplary modular analyte system cartridge 102. In some implementations, once the base is received, the cartridge 102 is locked to the base 106. Without departing from the present disclosure, the cartridge 102 may be locked to the base 106 with various interlocking devices, e.g., mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and / or magnetic interlocking devices may be used. Since the cartridge 102 may be locked to the base 106 and the cartridge 102 is placed flush with the base 106, it may be difficult to remove the cartridge 102 from the base 106 without assistance. Thus, in some implementations, the cartridge includes a swing linkage mechanism 602 configured to disengage the cartridge 102 from the base 106. The swing linkage mechanism is arranged to apply pressure at an interface 604 when a user alternately presses a first button 702 and a second button 704 coupled to different ends of the swing linkage mechanism 602.

[0066] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of an exemplary sample aperture 104, and Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary aperture 104 having a single sensor 904. In some implementations, the second electrode 802 and the third electrode 804 are gold-coated metal pins conductively coupled to a spring connector 460 ( Figure 4B ) within the cartridge 102. In some implementations, such electrodes (802, 804) are inserted into the plastic aperture 104 during or after molding of the sample aperture 104.

[0067] Figure 10is a bottom perspective view of an example well 104 having multiple sensors 904. In some implementations, multiple (e.g., 2 to 4) first electrodes 902 may be coupled to the sample well 104. Each first electrode 902 includes a metal nanoelectrode patterned on a silicon chip and an accompanying shield electrode, where the silicon chip is attached to a flexible substrate via a conductive adhesive layer. Each first electrode constitutes a different sensor, where the metal nanoelectrode is functionalized by different surface chemistries at the nanoelectrode - electrolyte interface and / or different charges induced by a bias applied to the shield electrode.

[0068] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the communication between the modular analyte system 100, the cloud service 1102, and the local computer 1104. The modular analyte system is capable of communicating with both the local computer 1104 and the cloud service 1102, for example, via an Ethernet port, a USB port, or a wireless connection (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth). For example, in some implementations, the modular analyte system 100 is coupled to the local computer during initial setup and communicates directly with the cloud service 1102 for subsequent operations. In such an implementation, the local computer 1104 can be used to access data stored on the cloud service 1102, such as test results or details on the cartridge 102. Alternatively or additionally, the analyte sensing system 100 may be preconfigured such that the analyte sensing system 100 does not dock directly with the local computer 1104 but only communicates with the cloud service 1102. Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, the analyte sensing system 100 may only communicate with the local computer 1104. Such an arrangement can be used, for example, in locations with an unreliable internet connection or in cases where the local computer must have an air gap.

[0069] Figure 12 shows an example controller 110 that can be used with aspects of the present disclosure. Among other things, the controller 454 can monitor parameters of signals sent by the system 100 to actuate such systems and / or adjust various operating parameters of such systems. As Figure 12As shown, the controller 454 may include one or more processors 1250 and a non-transitory computer-readable memory storage device (e.g., memory 1252) containing instructions that cause the processors 1250 to perform the operations described herein. The processor 1250 is coupled to an input / output (I / O) interface 1254 that is used to send and receive communications with components in the system, including, for example, one or more boards 450. In some implementations, the controller 454 conveys instructions to one or more boards 450, and the boards execute the instructions. In certain cases, the controller 454 may additionally communicate status to and send actuation and / or control signals to one or more of the various system components of the system 100, including, for example, the computer 1104 or the cloud service 1102, as well as other sensors that provide signals to the system 100 (e.g., temperature sensors, vibration sensors, and other types of sensors).

[0070] The controller may be located at various positions within the system 100. For example, the controller 454 may be located within the base 106, within the cartridge 102, or may be distributed such that portions of the controller 454 are in different locations. Alternatively or additionally, multiple networked controllers 454 may be used. For example, the cartridge may include a cartridge controller and the base may include a base controller. In such implementations, the separate controllers may be networked together to act as a single controller. Alternatively or additionally, multiple controllers may be included within the base 106, the cartridge 102, or both. In implementations having multiple controllers, the controllers may be used for specialized tasks and may communicate with each other to perform the actions described throughout this disclosure.

[0071] In operation, the controller 454 identifies each sample well 104 of the cartridge 102 and determines the status of each sample well 104. Once a sample has been added to a selected sample well, the controller directs the performance of an analysis of the material within the selected sample well. A spectrum is generated based on the performed analysis, and the spectrum is uploaded to, for example, the cloud service 1102. In some implementations, the controller then determines the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

[0072] In some implementations, the controller 454 within the base 106 includes a buffer memory and is configured to control individual feedback regulation in response to specific commands transmitted to the base via a secure connection to the cloud service 1102 provided by a user via a programmable user interface. Additionally, the controller 454 performs basic calibration tasks to correct for drift and other errors in the measured current and voltage at the sensor interface.

[0073] Figure 13is a flowchart of an example method 1300 that can be used with aspects of the present disclosure. At 1302, a removable cartridge 102 is received by a base 106, the cartridge including a plurality of sample wells. At 1304, each sample well 104 of the cartridge 102 is identified, for example, by a controller 454 within the base 106, a local computer 1104, or a cloud service 1102.

[0074] At 1306, the status of each sample well of the cartridge is determined. Determining the status of each cartridge involves looking up the usage history of each identified sample well 104 and determining the fit-for-use status of each sample well 104. In some implementations, the fit-for-use status of each sample well 104 is determined based on the date of the last use of the sample well 104 and the date of the last maintenance of the sample well 104. For example, in the case where the sample well 104 has been used since the last maintenance, the sample well 104 will be considered "not available", and in the case where the sample well 104 has not been used since the last maintenance, the sample well will be considered "available". For example, such information can be determined by querying such information in a lookup table. In some implementations, such as when the sample well 104 is manufactured as a consumable item, it is determined whether the sample well 104 has been used or is insufficient to make a fit-for-maintenance determination. In the case where the fit-for-use status indicates that the sample well is not available, the sample well is locked to prevent analysis operations. That is, due to an interlock (such as a software interlock), any fluid sample added to the locked sample well will not be analyzed, or visual feedback provided to the user via a programmable user interface on a local computing device will notify the user that they should not aliquot precious samples into unavailable wells. In the case where the fit-for-use status indicates that the sample well is available, the sample well is made available for analysis operations.

[0075] At 1308, an analysis of the substance within at least one of the sample wells is performed. In some implementations, at the end of the analysis in 1308, feedback is provided to the user regarding whether the scan has generated good quality data suitable for target detection. If the scan has not generated available data, the user is prompted to scan the sample in a new well via a programmable user interface on a local computing device. At 1310, a spectrum is generated based on the performed analysis. Then, the presence of a target analyte is determined based on the generated spectrum. In some implementations, a reference spectrum has been previously generated from a reference sample known to contain the target analyte. In such an implementation, the generated spectrum is compared with the reference spectrum to assist in determining the presence of the target analyte. A spectrum such as the determined spectrum or the reference spectrum can be stored locally within the base 106, stored locally on a computer, or uploaded and stored to a cloud service.

[0076] After the sample wells 104 within the cartridge 102 have been used, the cartridge 102 is then maintained. In some implementations, maintaining the cartridge 102 involves replacing the sample wells 104 within the cartridge 102, cleaning the sample wells 104 within the cartridge 102, or a combination of these options. Definition

[0077] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms, symbols, and other scientific terms or expressions used herein are intended to have the meanings commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In some instances, terms having meanings commonly understood are defined herein for clarity and / or for ease of reference, and such definitions included herein need not be construed as representing a substantial difference from what is commonly understood in the art. Many of the techniques and procedures described or mentioned herein are well understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and are generally employed by those of ordinary skill in the art using conventional methods.

[0078] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. For example, the term "a cell" includes one or more cells, including mixtures thereof. As used herein, "A and / or B" is used to include all of the following alternative forms: "A", "B", "A or B", and "A and B".

[0079] It should be understood that the aspects and implementations of the disclosure described herein include "comprising", "consisting of", and "consisting essentially of" aspects and implementations.

[0080] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous with "including", "containing", or "characterized by", and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. Any recitation of the term "comprising" in the description herein, particularly in the description of the components of a composition or the steps of a method, is understood to encompass compositions and methods consisting essentially of and consisting of the recited components or steps. As used herein, "consisting of" excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claimed composition or method. As used herein, "consisting essentially of" does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition or method.

[0081] Where a range of values is provided, it is to be understood that all ranges disclosed herein cover any and all possible sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges thereof. Any listed range can be readily identified as fully describing the same range and enabling the same range to be broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. By way of non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, a middle third, and an upper third, etc. As will also be understood by those skilled in the art, all language such as "at most", "at least", "greater than", "less than", etc., including the recited numbers, refer to ranges that can then be broken down into the sub-ranges as discussed above. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1 to 3 items refers to a group having 1, 2, or 3 items. Similarly, a group having 1 to 5 items refers to a group having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 items, and so on.

[0082] Certain ranges are presented herein by values preceded by the term "about". The term "about" is used herein to provide literal support for the exact number that follows and for numbers that are close to or approximate the number that follows. When determining whether a number is close to or approximates a specifically recited number, an unrecited number that is close to or approximates the specifically recited number can be a number that provides a substantially equivalent form of the specifically recited number in the context in which it is presented. If the degree of approximation is not otherwise clear from the context, "about" means within ±10% of the value provided, or rounded to the nearest significant digit, including the value provided in all cases.

[0083] The use of headings (e.g., (a), (b), (i), etc.) is for ease of reading the specification and claims only. The use of headings in the specification or claims does not require steps or elements to be in alphabetical or numerical order or the order in which they are presented.

[0084] It should be understood that certain features of the present disclosure that are described in the context of separate implementations may also be provided in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure that are described in the context of a single implementation for brevity may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. All combinations that are part of the implementations of the present disclosure are exactly covered by the present disclosure and are disclosed herein as if each such combination were individually and explicitly disclosed. In addition, all sub-combinations of the various implementations and their elements are exactly covered by the present disclosure and are disclosed herein as if each and every such sub-combination were individually and explicitly disclosed herein.

[0085] Also described is a non-transitory computer program product (i.e., a physically embodied computer program product) storing instructions that, when executed by one or more data processors of one or more computing systems, cause at least one data processor to perform the operations herein. Similarly, a computer system is also described that may include one or more data processors and a memory coupled to the one or more data processors. The memory may temporarily or permanently store instructions that cause at least one processor to perform one or more of the operations described herein. Additionally, the method may be implemented by one or more data processors within a single computing system or distributed between two or more computing systems. Such computing systems may be connected and may exchange data and / or commands or other instructions, etc., via one or more connections, including connections via a network (e.g., the Internet, wireless wide area network, local area network, wide area network, wired network, etc.), via a direct connection between one or more of the multiple computing systems, etc.

Claims

1. An analyte sensing system, comprising: A removable cartridge, the removable cartridge including a plurality of sample wells, each sample well configured to receive a sample fluid for analysis; And A base configured to receive the cartridge, the base configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base.

2. The analyte sensing system according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of sample wells includes a sensor, the sensor including: A first electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid; A second electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid; and A third electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid.

3. The analyte sensing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The base includes: A socket configured to receive a plurality of electrical pins coupled to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode; and A controller coupled to the socket, the controller configured to direct signal exchange with the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode through the socket and the pins.

4. The analyte sensing system according to claim 3, wherein, The controller is configured to: Identify each of the plurality of sample wells of the cartridge; Determine the status of each sample well of the cartridge; Direct the performance of an analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells; And Generate a spectrum based on the performed analysis.

5. The analyte sensing system according to claim 4, wherein, The controller is further configured to determine the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

6. The analyte sensing system according to claim 4, wherein, The controller is further configured to upload the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

7. The analyte sensing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cartridge includes: A swing linkage mechanism configured to separate the cartridge from the base.

8. A method, comprising: Receiving a removable cartridge through a base, the cartridge including a plurality of sample wells; Identifying each of the plurality of sample wells of the cartridge; Determining the status of each sample well of the cartridge; Performing an analysis of a substance within at least one of the sample wells; And Generating a spectrum based on the performed analysis.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Determining the status includes: Determining the identification of the sample well; Looking up the usage history of the sample well; and Determining the serviceable state of the sample well.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The serviceable state is determined based on criteria including: The date of the last use of the sample well; and The date of the last maintenance of the sample well.

11. The method according to any one of claims 9-10, wherein, Looking up the usage history includes querying a lookup table.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 - 11, wherein, If the serviceable state indicates that the sample well is unavailable, the method further includes: Locking the sample well against analysis operations.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9-11, wherein If the serviceable state indicates that the sample well is available, the method further includes: Enabling the sample well for analysis operations.

14. The method according to any one of claims 8-13, further comprising maintaining the cartridge.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, Maintaining the cartridge includes: Replacing the plurality of sample wells; or Cleaning the sample wells.

16. The method according to any one of claims 8-15, further comprising determining the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, Determining the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum includes: Generating a reference spectrum from a reference sample; and Comparing the generated spectrum with the reference spectrum.

18. The method according to any one of claims 8 - 15, further comprising uploading the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

19. An analyte sensing system, comprising: A removable cartridge configured to receive one or more fluid samples for analysis, wherein the cartridge includes a plurality of sample wells, and each of the plurality of sample wells includes a sensor, and the sensor includes: A first electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid; A second electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid; and A third electrode arranged to contact the sample fluid; and a base configured to receive the cartridge, the base being configured to send and receive signals to and from the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the base, wherein the base includes: A socket configured to receive a plurality of electrical pins coupled to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode; and A controller coupled to the socket, the controller being configured to direct signal exchange with the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode through the socket and the pins, and the controller is configured to: Identify each of the plurality of sample wells of the cartridge; Determine the status of each sample well of the cartridge; Direct the performance of an analysis of the substance in at least one of the sample wells; Generate a spectrum based on the performed analysis; and Determine the presence of a target analyte based on the generated spectrum.

20. The analyte sensing system according to claim 19, wherein, The controller is further configured to upload the generated spectrum to a cloud service.

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