Degassing equipment control circuit and gene sequencing system

Abstract

The utility model provides a control circuit of degassing equipment and a sequencing system. The control circuit of the degassing equipment comprises a first communication module, a main processor and a power switch, wherein the first communication module is used for receiving a control instruction sent by an upper computer and sending the control instruction to the main processor, and the control instruction is used for indicating the working state of the degassing equipment; the main processor is used for sending a control signal to the power switch according to the control instruction; and the power switch is opened or closed according to the control signal so as to control whether to supply power to the degassing equipment or not through opening or closing. According to the technical scheme, the first communication module is adopted to receive the control signal of the upper computer, the main processor generates the control signal sent to the power switch after receiving the control signal of the upper computer, and the working state of the degassing equipment is controlled through the power switch, so that the degassing equipment is restarted when the liquid path system works, and the degassing efficiency is improved. The total energy consumption of the gene sequencing system is saved, and meanwhile, the noise generated by using degassing equipment is reduced as much as possible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical technology, and in particular to a degassing device control circuit and a gene sequencing system. Background Technology

[0002] Degassing devices in liquid chromatography systems are typically used to remove dissolved gases from the mobile phase. These devices efficiently remove dissolved gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of analytical results. In gene sequencing systems, the degassing devices in the liquid chromatography system are controlled by the system's master switch; they start synchronously when the system is powered on, regardless of whether degassing is required in the liquid chromatography system. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a degassing equipment control circuit and a gene sequencing system to achieve individual and precise control of the degassing equipment.

[0004] This application provides a control circuit for a degassing device, which includes: a first communication module, a main processor, and a power switch; wherein, the first communication module is used to receive control instructions sent by a host computer and send them to the main processor, the control instructions being used to indicate the working status of the degassing device; the main processor is used to send control signals to the power switch according to the control instructions; the power switch is used to open or close according to the control signals, so as to control whether to supply power to the degassing device by opening or closing.

[0005] In the above technical solution, the main processor receives control instructions from the host computer through the first communication module, and generates control signals to be sent to the power switch after receiving the control instructions from the host computer. The main processor controls whether to supply power to the degassing device by opening and closing the power switch, thereby controlling the working state of the degassing device. This allows the degassing device to start when the liquid circuit system is working, which saves the overall energy consumption of the gene sequencing system and minimizes the noise generated by using the degassing device.

[0006] In one specific implementation, the power switch is communicatively connected to the main processor via a feedback line, and sends a signal indicating the operating status of the power switch back to the main processor via the feedback line.

[0007] In one specific implementation, the signal indicating the operating state of the power switch includes a signal indicating that the power switch is on or closed and a signal indicating that the power switch is in normal or faulty condition.

[0008] In one specific implementation, the first communication module communicates with the host computer using RS232 or RS485 communication protocols.

[0009] In one specific implementation, the main processor is a microcontroller.

[0010] In one specific implementation, the circuit further includes a second communication module;

[0011] The second communication module is used to receive pressure value information sent by the degassing device and send the pressure value information to the main processor.

[0012] In one specific implementation, the second communication module uses the RS232 or RS485 communication protocol.

[0013] Secondly, a gene sequencing system is provided, the gene sequencing system comprising:

[0014] Sequencing chips, chip platforms, reagent storage containers, liquid path systems, optical detection systems, electronic control systems, computer systems, and waste liquid storage containers. Among them:

[0015] The sequencing chip is configured to provide reaction regions for amplification and sequencing reactions.

[0016] The chip platform is configured to fix and support the sequencing chip;

[0017] The reagent storage container is configured to store one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents;

[0018] The liquid circuit system is configured to controllably deliver one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents from a reagent storage container and after degassing by a degassing device to a sequencing chip, so as to carry out amplification and sequencing reactions in the sequencing chip, and controllably deliver the waste liquid after the reaction from the sequencing chip to a waste liquid storage container.

[0019] The optical detection system is configured to controllably excite and acquire fluorescence signals during the sequencing reaction, and generate a fluorescence image based on the fluorescence signals.

[0020] The computer system is configured to acquire fluorescence images from an optical detection system and identify the base sequences of a sample library based on the fluorescence images;

[0021] The waste liquid storage container is configured to store the waste liquid generated after the reaction.

[0022] The electronic control system includes the degassing equipment control circuit described in any of the above-mentioned embodiments, and is configured to control the operation and function of the liquid circuit system and the optical detection system according to the instructions of the computer system.

[0023] In one specific implementation, the degassing device includes a vacuum pump and a degassing chamber; wherein the degassing chamber is connected to the reagent storage container and configured to contain the liquid in the fluid path that delivers the liquid from the reagent storage container to the sequencing chip, and to remove the gas in the liquid from the liquid;

[0024] The vacuum pump is configured to extract gas from the liquid located in the degassing chamber.

[0025] In one specific implementation, the degassing device further includes a pressure sensor disposed within the degassing chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of the gene sequencing system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a structural block diagram of an electrical control system in a gene sequencing system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a structural block diagram of the fluid circuit system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a structural block diagram of the control circuit of the degassing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 A structural block diagram of another electronic control system in the gene sequencing system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 6 The circuit diagram of the power switch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 7 The circuit schematic diagram is provided for the communication module in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] It should be noted that, unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in one or more embodiments of this specification should have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in one or more embodiments of this specification do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0035] To facilitate understanding of the control circuit of the degassing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application, its application scenario will be described first.

[0036] Library Construction

[0037] The genomic DNA or RNA molecules to be sequenced are broken down using physical or chemical methods, such as by ultrasound. After breaking, DNA or RNA fragments are formed. First, enzymes are used to fill in the ends of the DNA or RNA fragments. Then, specific enzymes are used to ligate specific DNA or RNA sequences (usually, this specific DNA or RNA sequence is also called a linker) to the ends of the fragments, forming a mixture of DNA or RNA. This mixture of DNA or RNA is also known in the industry as a library.

[0038] To save sequencing costs, multiple samples are typically sequenced simultaneously in a sequencer. To differentiate the sequencing results of different samples, when preparing libraries for different samples, a DNA or RNA sequence (usually containing 6-8 bases) is included in the adapters to identify the source of that sample. This DNA or RNA sequence can also be called a sample tag (or index, barcode). Understandably, each sample's library adapter contains its own unique sample tag.

[0039] Typically, library construction is performed outside of the sequencer, for example, by obtaining the library through experimental procedures in the laboratory.

[0040] Amplification reaction

[0041] Taking the amplification of a DNA library via bridge PCR (polymerase chain reaction) as an example, after constructing the library, it can be seeded onto a sequencing chip for amplification. The adapters at both ends of the library are complementary to the first type of amplification primer on the sequencing chip; therefore, complementary hybridization allows the library to be seeded onto the sequencing chip.

[0042] After the library is seeded onto the sequencing chip, it can be used as a template for amplification. For example, the amplification process can begin by adding dNTPs and polymerase to the sequencing chip. The polymerase will synthesize a new DNA strand along the template strand, starting with the first amplification primer. This new DNA strand is completely complementary to the template strand and is therefore called the complementary strand of the template strand. This complementary strand is covalently linked to the sequencing chip. Next, NaOH solution is added to the sequencing chip for rinsing. In the presence of NaOH solution, the template strand and the complementary strand unwind, and the template strand is washed away with the alkali solution, while the complementary strand covalently linked to the sequencing chip is retained. Next, a neutral liquid is added to the sequencing chip to neutralize the NaOH solution. The entire environment within the sequencing chip becomes neutral, allowing the other end of the complementary strand to continue complementary hybridization with the second amplification primer on the sequencing chip. Then, dNTPs and polymerase are added. The polymerase synthesizes a completely new DNA strand, starting from the second amplification primer and continuing along the complementary strand. At this point, the new DNA strand is completely complementary to the complementary strand and identical to the template strand. NaOH solution is then added again to untie the two strands. This yields two covalently linked and complementary strands for the sequencing chip. Repeating this process will result in an exponential increase in the number of DNA strands.

[0043] After amplification, the sequencing chip retains two identical DNA double strands, one matching the template strand and the other the complementary strand. Specific reaction reagents are then added to the chip to cleave the DNA strand synthesized from one of the amplification primers. For example, the DNA strand matching the complementary strand is cleaved, leaving the strand matching the template strand. NaOH solution is then added to the chip for rinsing. The alkali solution unwinds the DNA double strands, and the cleaved strands are washed away, leaving only single-stranded DNA on the chip. The number of single-stranded DNA strands on the chip at this point is exponentially higher than at the start of amplification, forming DNA clusters. All single-stranded DNA strands within a cluster are identical. Adding a neutral solution allows for sequencing of all single-stranded DNA within the cluster under neutral conditions.

[0044] It should be noted that the amplification reaction described above can be performed outside the sequencer, such as amplifying the library in the laboratory through experimental procedures, or it can be performed inside the sequencer. When the amplification reaction is performed inside the sequencer, the library involved in the amplification reaction and various reaction reagents (e.g., dNTPs, polymerase, NaOH alkaline solution, neutral solution, etc.) can be added to the sequencing chip through the sequencer's liquid circuit system. Furthermore, the amplification reaction described above is merely exemplary, and this application is not limited to the bridge PCR amplification method; other amplification methods can also be used, such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), nucleic acid-dependent amplification (NASBA), rolling circle amplification (RCA), and multiplex probe amplification (MPA).

[0045] sequencing reaction

[0046] Taking the sequencing-by-synthesis principle as an example, during sequencing, four dNTPs with fluorescent groups are added to the sequencing chip through a liquid circuit system. Each dNTP can only be synthesized with one of the four bases ATCG, and the 3' end of each dNTP is blocked by a blocking group (including but not limited to azide). Then, polymerase is added to the sequencing chip through the liquid circuit system. Through the action of polymerase, one of the four dNTPs will be synthesized with a complementary base on the single strand being sequenced. Since the 3' end of the dNTP is blocked by a blocking group, only one dNTP can be extended on the single strand being sequenced at a time. After synthesis, specific chemical reagents are added to the sequencing chip through the liquid circuit system to flush away excess dNTPs and polymerase. Next, the fluorescent groups of the dNTPs synthesized on the single strands can be excited by the optical detection system, causing the fluorescent groups to emit fluorescent signals. Since the fluorescent groups of the dNTPs on each single strand in a cluster will emit the same fluorescent signal, the fluorescent signal is amplified. Therefore, the optical detection system can collect the fluorescent signal and generate a fluorescent image.

[0047] By processing and analyzing fluorescence images using a computer system, it can be determined which type of dNTP was synthesized onto the sequenced single strand. Then, based on the complementarity principle, it can be deduced which base on the sequenced single strand was synthesized with the dNTP. This completes one sequencing cycle.

[0048] Next, specific chemical reagents are added to the sequencing chip via a liquid circuit system to remove the blocking and fluorescent groups, thereby exposing the 3'-terminal hydroxyl groups of the dNTPs.

[0049] Next, proceed to the next sequencing cycle and repeat the above process.

[0050] As we can understand, one sequencing cycle can detect one base, and through multiple sequencing cycles, multiple bases in the sequenced single strand can be detected. Specifically, the number of sequencing cycles can be determined based on the set sequencing read length, for example, 150 or 300 sequencing cycles.

[0051] Of course, it should also be noted that the above sequencing reactions are merely illustrative, and this application is not limited to using the principle of sequencing by synthesis; other sequencing principles may also be used.

[0052] sequencing system

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 A block diagram of the sequencing system is shown.

[0054] See Figure 1 As shown, the sequencing system includes: a sequencing chip 10, a chip platform 20, a reagent storage container 30, a liquid path system 40, an optical detection system 50, a computer system 60, a waste liquid storage container 70, and an electronic control system 80. Among them:

[0055] Sequencing chip 10 is configured to provide reaction regions for amplification and sequencing reactions;

[0056] Chip platform 20, configured to fix and support sequencing chip 10;

[0057] The reagent storage container 30 is configured to store one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents;

[0058] The liquid circuit system 40 is configured to controllably deliver one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents from the reagent storage container 30 to the sequencing chip 10 for amplification and sequencing reactions in the sequencing chip 10, and to controllably deliver the waste liquid after the reaction from the sequencing chip 10 to the waste liquid storage container 70.

[0059] The optical detection system 50 is configured to controllably excite and acquire fluorescence signals during the sequencing reaction, and generate a fluorescence image based on the fluorescence signals;

[0060] Computer system 60 is configured to acquire fluorescence images from optical detection system 50 and identify the base sequences of sample libraries based on the fluorescence images;

[0061] Waste liquid storage container 70 is configured to store waste liquid generated after the reaction;

[0062] The electronic control system 80 is configured to control the operation and function of the liquid circuit system 40 and the optical detection system 50 according to the instructions of the computer system.

[0063] Electrical control system

[0064] According to function, the electronic control system mainly includes a central control module (or central control board), a control module that realizes multiple control functions, and a variety of sensors that can collect information reflecting various operating states of the instrument.

[0065] The central control module serves as the hub connecting its host computer (computer system 60) and each control module. It receives control commands sent by the host computer through a communication interface (e.g., RS232 interface), and after parsing, verifying, and re-encoding the commands, it sends them to the corresponding control modules to achieve unified and orderly control of each control module. Under this control, each control module cooperates smoothly to achieve the purpose of gene sequencing.

[0066] The structure of the electronic control system is as follows Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the central control module of the electronic control system communicates with the host computer to control the execution modules (such as the chip platform 20, the liquid circuit system 40, the optical detection system 50, etc.) in the sequencing system according to the control instructions of the host computer, or to feed back the status of each execution module to the host computer so that the host computer can know the status of each execution module. The host computer can be the host computer in the computer system 80.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, the electronic control system may include, but is not limited to: a temperature control module, a chip platform motion control module, an optical detection system motion control module, a storage container motion control module, a liquid circuit system control module, a light source control module, and a consumable information reading control module.

[0068] The temperature control module can control the heating and cooling devices to provide suitable reaction temperatures and conditions for the amplification and sequencing reactions occurring within the sequencing chip 10. For example, the heating device can be a TEC (thermal energy storage) module, and the cooling device can be a fan. Furthermore, to achieve better temperature control, the temperature control module can also implement closed-loop control based on the temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0069] The chip platform motion control module and the optical detection system motion control module work together to achieve relative motion between the chip and the optical detection system, enabling the acquisition of fluorescence images of various reaction regions within the chip. Taking the chip platform's movement in a two-dimensional plane as an example, the chip platform motion control module can control the drivers to move the X-axis motor and the Y-axis motor respectively, thereby moving the chip platform in the X and Y directions (the X and Y directions are perpendicular to each other on the horizontal plane). Furthermore, during image acquisition, to obtain the best quality fluorescence image, the imaging component in the optical detection system needs to be focused. The optical detection system motion control module can control the drivers to drive the motors to move the objective lens in the imaging component in the Z direction (the Z direction is perpendicular to the horizontal plane formed by the X and Y directions), allowing the objective lens to reach the optimal focal plane and ultimately obtain the best fluorescence image.

[0070] Typically, reagent storage containers are sealed with a membrane to facilitate the preservation and transportation of the reagents inside. After the reagent storage container is loaded into the gene sequencer, the membrane needs to be pierced using a sharp pipette needle to draw the reagents from the container. The storage container motion control module, through a driver, drives a motor to move the reagent storage container in the Z-axis, bringing it closer to the pipette needle so that the needle can pierce the membrane and draw the reagents.

[0071] The fluid system control module includes an injection pump control submodule and a distribution valve control submodule. The injection pump control submodule and the distribution valve control submodule can control the operation of the injection pump and the distribution valve in the fluid system respectively, and cooperate with other components or parts in the fluid system to realize the automated control of the fluid system.

[0072] The light source control module includes an LED control submodule and an LD control submodule. The LED control submodule controls the LED light source to operate at a stable optical power level so that the LED emits excitation light to excite phosphors and generate fluorescence signals. The LD control submodule controls the LD to operate at a stable optical power level so that the LD emits laser light to assist the imaging component in focusing.

[0073] The consumables information reading and control module can read consumables information (e.g., reagent storage containers, chips) within the gene sequencer according to instructions and report the read consumables information to the host computer. For example, consumables information reading can be achieved through RFID technology. An RFID tag is attached to the consumables, and the consumables information is carried in the RFID tag. The RFID reader is controlled to read the consumables information in the RFID tag.

[0074] In addition to the various control modules mentioned above, the electronic control system 80 also needs to collect information reflecting the instrument's operating status in real time through various sensors, and report it to its host computer through the central control module. This allows the host computer to detect the instrument's operating status and ensure stable operation of the instrument.

[0075] Various sensors may include, but are not limited to: temperature sensors for collecting the temperature of key components within the sequencer; sensors for detecting the chip loading status; sensors for detecting the chip fixture status; sensors for detecting the loading and positioning status of reagent storage containers; sensors for detecting the loading and positioning status of waste liquid storage containers; sensors for detecting the positioning status of door panels on the sequencer (e.g., reagent storage container door, waste liquid storage container door); sensors for detecting the waste liquid level in waste liquid storage containers; and sensors for detecting the volume and number of air bubbles, fluid flow rate, and pipeline pressure status in the liquid path system.

[0076] Temperature sensors can collect data such as the temperature of the imaging components, the temperature of the host computer, the temperature of the air inlet / outlet, and the temperature of the sequencer's internal and external environments. The central control module can further control the fans located at the air inlet / outlet based on the air inlet / outlet temperature, forming a closed-loop control.

[0077] After the central control module reports the information collected by the sensor to the host computer, the host computer detects the working status of the instrument and issues instructions to indicate the working status based on the detection results. The central control module controls the indicator lights to indicate the working status of the instrument according to the instructions. For example, RGB three-color indicator lights are used to indicate the working status of the instrument.

[0078] In the liquid path system that supplies liquid (one or more mixed sample libraries, one or more reagents) to the sequencing chip, degassing is necessary to prevent gases in the liquid from forming bubbles and affecting the sequencing results. Therefore, the liquid path system provided in this application includes a degassing device. Existing degassing devices lack independent control; they start automatically when the gene sequencing system is powered on, regardless of whether degassing is required in the liquid path system. This results in significant noise after the gene sequencer is turned on and affects the lifespan of the degassing device. Therefore, this application provides a control circuit for the degassing device to independently control it, thereby improving the performance of the gene sequencing system. To facilitate understanding of the control circuit for the degassing device provided in this application, a detailed description is provided below with reference to specific drawings and embodiments. Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the liquid circuit system in the sequencing reaction is shown.

[0079] refer to Figure 3 As shown, the liquid path system provided in this embodiment includes a liquid path connected to a reagent storage container 30, a sequencing chip 10, and a degassing device 500. The degassing device 500 is disposed on the liquid path and degasses the liquid in the liquid path. Specifically, the degassing device 500 may include a degassing chamber and a vacuum pump. The degassing chamber is connected to the liquid path, and the vacuum pump is connected to the degassing chamber. The vacuum pump and the degassing chamber are isolated by a breathable and waterproof membrane, allowing only gas to permeate while the liquid remains in the degassing chamber during degassing. The vacuum pump can be controlled via a degassing device control circuit when controlling the degassing device 500.

[0080] It should be understood that, Figure 3 The example only illustrates the liquid circuit system used in sequencing reactions. When degassing in liquid circuit systems applied to other reactions, the connection method is different. Figure 3 The connection methods shown are similar, so they will not be illustrated one by one.

[0081] Please refer to the above. Figure 4 , Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the structural block diagram of the control circuit for a degassing device provided in an embodiment of this application. The main structure of the control circuit for the degassing device provided in this embodiment includes a first communication module 300, a main processor 100, and a power switch 200. The first communication module 300 is used to receive signals from its host computer (e.g., a host computer). Figure 2 The central control module sends control commands to the host computer and then to the main processor 100. The main processor 100 generates a control signal for the power switch 200 based on the control commands sent by the host computer and sends it to the power switch 200. Upon receiving the control signal from the main processor 100, the power switch 200 opens or closes according to the control signal, thereby controlling whether to supply power to the degassing equipment 500, and thus switching the operating state of the degassing pump.

[0082] Continue to refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the first communication module 300 is communicatively connected to the main processor 100, and the host computer is a control chip or processor in the electronic control system, such as... Figure 2The central control module is located in the system. In this embodiment, the first communication module 300 receives control commands sent by the host computer and sends them to the main processor 100. These control commands indicate the working status of the degassing device 500. For example, in use, the host computer generates control commands for the degassing device 500 based on the user's operation. In a sequencing system, when the degassing device 500 needs to operate, the operator operates the sequencing system, and the host computer generates control commands based on the user's operation and sends them to the first communication module 300. The first communication module 300 receives the control commands from the host computer and sends them to the main processor 100. These control commands instruct the degassing device 500 to start or stop operating.

[0083] When in use, the main processor 100 sends control signals to the power switch 200 according to the received control instructions. The control signals are signals generated by the main processor 100 based on the control instructions to control the operating state of the power switch 200. In specific signal transmission, the transmission occurs through the communication connection between the main processor 100 and the power switch 200.

[0084] After receiving a control signal from the main processor 100, the power switch 200 opens or closes according to the control signal to control whether power is supplied to the degassing device 500. If a control command from the host computer instructs the degassing device 500 to start operation, the generated control signal is a control signal to close the power switch 200. The power switch 200 closes according to the control signal, allowing power to be supplied to the degassing device 500, and the degassing pump in the degassing device 500 starts working. Similarly, if a control command from the host computer instructs the degassing device 500 to stop operation, the generated control signal is a control signal to open the power switch 200. The power switch 200 opens according to the control signal, preventing power from being supplied to the degassing device 500, and the degassing device 500 stops working due to power failure.

[0085] As can be seen from the above description, the control circuit of the degassing device provided in this application embodiment receives control commands from the host computer via a first communication module. After receiving the control commands, the main processor 100 generates a control signal to open or close the power switch 200. By controlling the opening or closing of the power switch 200, it determines whether to supply power to the degassing device 500, thereby controlling the working state of the degassing device 500. This allows the degassing device 500 to operate according to the commands from the host computer, instead of starting synchronously with the gene sequencing system. This allows for flexible control of the working state of the degassing device 500 based on whether the liquid circuit system requires degassing. Compared to the prior art where the degassing device 500 starts working immediately upon sequencing system startup, this reduces the overall energy consumption of the sequencing system, minimizes noise generated by the degassing device 500, and extends its service life.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, for the electronic control system in the gene sequencing system, the liquid circuit control module further includes a degassing equipment control submodule. The specific control circuit of the degassing equipment control submodule is the degassing equipment control circuit provided in the embodiment of this application. The working state of the degassing equipment can be independently controlled through the degassing equipment control submodule.

[0087] Continue to refer to Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment of this application, when the power switch 200 is connected to the main processor 100, the power switch 200 communicates with the main processor 100 through a feedback line and feeds back its status to the main processor 100 through the feedback line. That is, the power switch 200 communicates with the main processor 100 through the feedback line to provide feedback on its status, thereby forming a closed-loop control. The main processor 100 can use the feedback line to determine whether the power switch 200 operates according to the control signal after receiving it, thereby judging whether the power switch 200 is functioning normally.

[0088] Specifically, the power switch 200 indicates whether it is in the open or closed state via a first feedback signal (e.g., a high or low level signal); the power switch 200 indicates whether it is in normal operation or fault (e.g., overcurrent fault, high temperature fault) state via a second feedback signal (e.g., a high or low level signal). When the first communication module 300 is connected to the host computer, it communicates with the main processor 100 via RS232 or RS485 communication protocols, thereby ensuring the stability of the control signals during signal transmission.

[0089] In this embodiment, the main processor 100 may employ different processors. For example, the main processor 100 may be a microprocessor, such as an STM32F030F4 microcontroller. The STM32F030F4 microcontroller can perform data acquisition, communication processing, and related algorithm processing. It should be understood that the signal processing and related algorithm processing performed by the main processor 100 in this embodiment are common control methods for components in the prior art. This embodiment only adds the main processor 100 and the power switch 200 hardware devices, and controls the degassing device 500 based on the control functions carried by the aforementioned hardware devices.

[0090] The power switch 200 provided in this application embodiment can be of different types. For example, the power switch 200 can be a SIP32419DN-T1-GE4. The SIP32419DN-T1-GE4 is a surface-mount high-side load switch suitable for power switch control scenarios in various electronic devices. Its main functions include: 1) High current handling capability: maximum output current of 3.5A, suitable for circuits requiring high current handling. 2) Low on-resistance: maximum on-resistance of 56mOhm, helping to reduce power consumption and heat generation. 3) Wide operating voltage range: operating voltage range of 6V to 28V, suitable for different power requirements. 4) High reliability: features fault protection current limiting, over-temperature protection, and undervoltage lockout (UVLO) functions to ensure safe operation of the device under abnormal conditions. 5) Small package: uses a DFN-10 package, suitable for circuit designs with limited space.

[0091] refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 The circuit diagram of the power switch 200 provided in this embodiment is shown. Figure 6 As can be seen from the disclosed circuit schematic, the power switch 200 provided in this application embodiment is a power management circuit based on the SIP32419DN-T1-GE4 chip, used to power and monitor the status of the air pump (AIR_PUMP) related functions, and realize the enable control, power conversion and status feedback of the air pump.

[0092] The functions of each pin in the SIP32419DN-T1-GE4 chip are as follows:

[0093] VIN_1 (pin 1) and VIN_2 (pin 2): Power input pins, used to connect to a +24V input power supply to provide operating power for the internal circuitry of the chip.

[0094] SS (pin 3): Soft start pin. It controls the current rise rate when the chip starts up by connecting external capacitors and other components to prevent excessive current from impacting the circuit during startup.

[0095] EN (pin 4): Enable pin. When the level is high, the chip works normally; when the level is low, the chip is closed. The level of this pin is controlled by the AIR_PUMP_EN signal through R28, R15, etc.

[0096] ILIM (pin 5): Current limiting pin, which can be set to the upper limit of the chip's output current by means of external resistors, etc., to prevent overload.

[0097] VOUT_2 (pin 10): Main output pin, outputs the converted voltage (presumably the voltage required by the air pump), and supplies power to +24V_AIR_PUMP.

[0098] VOUT_1 (pin 9, not connected in the diagram): Spare output pin (not currently used in the circuit), which can output another voltage and can be used to power other circuit modules in some applications.

[0099] FLG (pin 8): Status flag pin, outputs signals related to the chip's operating status, such as fault, normal operation, etc., and outputs the AIR_PUMP_FLAG signal via R27.

[0100] PG (pin 7): Power Good pin. When the chip's output voltage is stable within the normal range, this pin outputs a high-level signal, which is output as AIR_PUMP_PG signal via R26 to inform the external circuit that the power output is normal.

[0101] PGND (pin 6), GND (pin 11, EP on the bottom of the chip): Ground pins, providing an electrical reference point for the internal circuitry of the chip, ensuring the potential reference when the chip is working normally.

[0102] in addition, Figure 6 Resistor R28 is connected in series in the AIR_PUMP_EN signal line to limit current and control the waveform, protecting the downstream circuitry from excessive current surges and optimizing the control waveform. Resistor R15 is connected between the chip's ILIM pin and ground to set the chip's maximum output current. Resistors R26 and R27 are used for current limiting and waveform shaping of the AIR_PUMP_PG and AIR_PUMP_FLAG signals, respectively, to prevent excessive current on the signal lines, optimize the feedback waveform, and protect the chip pins and subsequent connected circuitry. Resistors R29 and R20 are pull-up resistors, pulling the AIR_PUMP_EN and AIR_PUMP_FLAG signals up to 3.3V, ensuring the signals are in a stable high-level state when there is no external drive.

[0103] Capacitor C15 is the power input filter capacitor, connected in parallel between the +24V power supply and ground, filtering out low-frequency ripple on the power line and making the power input to the chip more stable. Capacitor C16 is the soft-start setting for the chip, controlling the current rise rate during chip startup to prevent excessive current from impacting the circuit. Capacitor C21 is the output filter capacitor, connected in parallel between the VOUT_2 output terminal and ground, stabilizing the chip's output voltage and filtering out ripple in the output voltage.

[0104] It should be understood that, in addition to the SIP32419DN-T1-GE4 chip described above, the power switch 200 provided in this application embodiment can also employ, for example, a relay or a MOSFET, or similar electronic devices with relay or MOSFET functions. It only needs to control the power supply to and from the degassing device 500 according to the second control signal sent by the main processor 100. Furthermore, the power switch 200 exhibits high stability and reliability in power switching control, and can provide overcurrent, overvoltage, and other related protections, while outputting relevant feedback signals for processing system data acquisition.

[0105] In one optional configuration, the main processor 100 is communicatively connected to the degassing device 500 and is used to receive status signals sent by the degassing device 500. This allows it to obtain the specific operational status of the degassing device 500 and receive signals generated by the degassing device 500 during operation to determine whether the degassing device 500 is functioning correctly.

[0106] For example, the degassing equipment control circuit further includes a second communication module 600, which is used to receive the cylinder pressure value information sent by the degassing equipment and send the pressure value information to the main processor. When the degassing equipment 500 and the main processor 100 transmit signals, the main processor 100 communicates with the degassing equipment 500 through RS232 or RS485 communication protocols, thereby enabling stable signal transmission.

[0107] refer to Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 The communication module (e.g.) is shown. Figure 4 The circuit schematic of the first communication module 300 or the second communication module 600 shown is shown. Figure 7 The circuit shown is an RS232 level conversion circuit based on the MAX3232 chip, used to convert between TTL level and RS232 level, so that the microcontroller (or other TTL level device) can communicate serially with the host computer with RS232 interface.

[0108] The functions of each pin of the MAX3232 chip are as follows:

[0109] C1+ (pin 1), C1- (pin 3), C2+ (pin 4), C2- (pin 5): Charge pump capacitor connection pins. External capacitors (C17, C18, etc.) work in conjunction with the internal charge pump circuit of the chip to generate the voltage level required for RS232 communication.

[0110] VCC (pin 16): Power input pin, connected to a 3V3 power supply, providing operating power to the internal circuitry of the chip.

[0111] GND (pin 15): Ground pin, providing an electrical reference point for the internal circuitry of the chip, ensuring the potential reference when the chip is working normally.

[0112] VS+ (pin 2), VS- (pin 6): RS232 level output pins. They output the converted RS232 positive and negative level signals, respectively.

[0113] R1IN (pin 13) and R2IN (pin 8): RS232 level input pins. They receive input signals from RS232 interface devices and send them to the chip for level conversion.

[0114] R1OUT (pin 12), R2OUT (pin 9): TTL level output pins. These output the TTL level signal after chip conversion and connect it to the receive pin (such as UART_RX) of a microcontroller or other TTL level device.

[0115] T1IN (pin 11) and T2IN (pin 10): TTL level input pins. They receive signals from TTL level devices such as microcontrollers (e.g., UART_TX) and send them to the chip for level conversion.

[0116] T1OUT (pin 14), T2OUT (pin 7): RS232 level output pins. These output the converted RS232 level signal and connect it to the transmit pin of the RS232 interface device.

[0117] in addition, Figure 7 The resistors in the circuit have the following functions: Resistors R21-R24 and R16-R19 are current-limiting resistors. In the signal input / output circuits, they prevent excessive current from flowing into the chip pins, protecting the chip and also providing impedance matching. Resistors R11-R14 are pull-up resistors. They pull the TTL level signal lines up to 3.3V, ensuring that the signal is in a stable high-level state when there is no signal input, thus guaranteeing communication reliability.

[0118] Capacitors C17 and C18 are charge pump capacitors. They work in conjunction with the internal circuitry of the MAX3232 chip to generate the positive and negative voltages required for RS232 level output. Capacitors C19 and C20 are filter capacitors. They filter out the ripple in the voltage generated by the charge pump, making the output RS232 level more stable. Capacitor C22 is a power supply filter capacitor. Connected in parallel between the 3V3 power supply and ground, it filters out high-frequency noise on the power line, providing a stable power supply to the chip.

[0119] Diodes D3-D6 are TVS diodes. They protect the RS232 interface chip from damage caused by lightning strikes or static electricity.

[0120] It should be understood that the first communication module 300 provided in this application may also adopt a circuit structure similar to that of the second communication module 600. Of course, in addition to the communication examples in the specific examples above, other communication modules that can realize information interaction may also be applied to the embodiments of this application.

[0121] The control circuit of the degassing device provided in this embodiment also includes a power supply module 400, which supplies power to the main processor 100. In this embodiment, the power supply module 400 can supply power to the main processor 100, sensors in the degassing device 500, and other peripheral devices. In specific use, the power supply module 400 is used to convert the voltage to 3.3V to power the processor, so that the voltage meets the needs of each device.

[0122] As can be seen from the above description, the control circuit of the degassing equipment provided in this application embodiment adopts a power control method to realize the switching control of any degassing device, reducing the parsing problem of multiple degassing pump protocols, reducing development costs, and indirectly improving the service life of the equipment on the instrument through power control. It has the advantages of low cost, strong compatibility, and wide applicability.

[0123] This application embodiment also provides a liquid circuit system, which includes the control circuit of the degassing device of any of the above claims and the degassing device 500; wherein the degassing device 500 is controlled and connected to the power switch 200.

[0124] As can be seen from the above description, the control circuit of the degassing device provided in this embodiment of the application receives control signals from the host computer using a first communication module. After receiving the control signals from the host computer, the main processor 100 generates control signals and sends them to the power switch 200. The power switch 200 controls the operating state of the degassing device 500, allowing the degassing device 500 to start only when the liquid system is working. This allows for flexible control of the operating state of the degassing device 500 based on whether the liquid system requires degassing. Compared to the prior art, where the degassing device 500 starts working as soon as the sequencing system starts, regardless of whether the liquid system requires degassing, this method saves the overall energy consumption of the gene sequencing system and minimizes the noise generated by using the degassing device.

[0125] This application also provides a gene sequencing system, which includes a sequencing chip, a chip platform, a reagent storage container, a liquid path system, an optical detection system, a computer system, a waste liquid storage container, and an electronic control system. Wherein:

[0126] Sequencing chips, chip platforms, reagent storage containers, liquid path systems, optical detection systems, electronic control systems, computer systems, and waste liquid storage containers. Among them:

[0127] The sequencing chip is configured to provide reaction regions for amplification and sequencing reactions.

[0128] The chip platform is configured to fix and support the sequencing chip;

[0129] A reagent storage container configured to store one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents;

[0130] The liquid circuit system is configured to controllably deliver one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents from a reagent storage container and after degassing by a degassing device to a sequencing chip for amplification and sequencing reactions in the sequencing chip, and to controllably deliver the waste liquid after the reaction from the sequencing chip to a waste liquid storage container.

[0131] An optical detection system is configured to controllably excite and acquire fluorescence signals during the sequencing reaction, and generate a fluorescence image based on the fluorescence signals;

[0132] A computer system configured to acquire fluorescence images from an optical detection system and identify the base sequences of a sample library based on the fluorescence images;

[0133] Waste liquid storage container, configured to store waste liquid generated after the reaction;

[0134] The electrical control system, including the degassing equipment control circuit of any of the above, is configured to control the operation and function of the liquid circuit system and the optical detection system according to the instructions of the computer system.

[0135] In the above technical solution, by using a first communication module to receive control signals from the host computer, and the main processor generating control signals to be sent to the power switch after receiving the control signals from the host computer, and controlling the working state of the degassing equipment through the power switch, the overall energy consumption of the gene sequencing system is saved, while the noise generated by using the degassing equipment is reduced as much as possible.

[0136] In one specific implementation, the degassing device includes a vacuum pump and a degassing chamber; wherein the degassing chamber is connected to a reagent storage container and configured to contain the liquid in the fluid path that delivers the liquid from the reagent storage container to the sequencing chip, and to remove gas from the liquid; the vacuum pump is used to extract gas from the liquid located in the degassing chamber. See details for further information. Figure 3 The relevant description in the document.

[0137] In one specific implementation, the degassing device further includes a pressure sensor (not shown in the figure) disposed within the degassing chamber. This pressure sensor detects the pressure within the degassing chamber to obtain the operating status of the vacuum pump. During information exchange, the data detected by the pressure sensor can be transmitted to the main processor via a second communication module. The main processor can then determine whether the degassing device is operating normally based on the collected information.

[0138] One or more embodiments of this specification are intended to cover all such substitutions, modifications, and variations that fall within the broad scope of the appended claims. Therefore, any omissions, modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of one or more embodiments of this specification should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0139] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control circuit for a degassing device, characterized in that, include: The first communication module, main processor, and power switch; wherein: The first communication module is used to receive control commands sent by the host computer and send them to the main processor. The control commands are used to indicate the working status of the degassing equipment. The main processor is used to send control signals to the power switch according to the control instructions; The power switch is used to open or close according to the control signal, so as to control whether to supply power to the degassing equipment by opening or closing.

2. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power switch is communicatively connected to the main processor via a feedback line, and sends a signal indicating the working status of the power switch back to the main processor via the feedback line.

3. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The signals indicating the operating state of the power switch include signals indicating that the power switch is on or closed and signals indicating that the power switch is in normal or faulty condition.

4. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first communication module uses RS232 or RS485 communication protocols.

5. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main processor is a microcontroller.

6. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The circuit also includes a second communication module; The second communication module is used to receive pressure value information sent by the degassing device and send the pressure value information to the main processor.

7. The control circuit for the degassing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second communication module uses RS232 or RS485 communication protocols.

8. A gene sequencing system, characterized in that, This includes sequencing chips, chip platforms, reagent storage containers, liquid path systems, optical detection systems, electronic control systems, computer systems, and waste liquid storage containers; among which: The sequencing chip is configured to provide reaction regions for amplification and sequencing reactions. The chip platform is configured to fix and support the sequencing chip; The reagent storage container is configured to store one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents; The liquid circuit system is configured to controllably deliver one or more mixed sample libraries and one or more reagents from a reagent storage container and after degassing by a degassing device to a sequencing chip, so as to carry out amplification and sequencing reactions in the sequencing chip, and controllably deliver the waste liquid after the reaction from the sequencing chip to a waste liquid storage container. The optical detection system is configured to controllably excite and acquire fluorescence signals during the sequencing reaction, and generate a fluorescence image based on the fluorescence signals. The computer system is configured to acquire fluorescence images from an optical detection system and identify the base sequences of a sample library based on the fluorescence images; The waste liquid storage container is configured to store the waste liquid generated after the reaction. The electronic control system includes a degassing equipment control circuit as described in any one of claims 1-7, configured to control the operation and function of the liquid circuit system and the optical detection system according to instructions from the computer system.

9. The gene sequencing system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The degassing equipment includes a vacuum pump and a degassing chamber; wherein... The degassing chamber is connected to the reagent storage container and is configured to transport the liquid in the reagent storage container to the fluid path of the sequencing chip, contain the liquid, and remove the gas in the liquid from the liquid; The vacuum pump is configured to extract gas from the liquid located in the degassing chamber.

10. The gene sequencing system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The degassing device also includes a pressure sensor disposed within the degassing chamber.

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