An electronic device equipped with a sensor for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, and a method for replacing the sensor.

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electronic device (1) for analyzing an analyte (2) present in a fluid, the device comprising a sensor (10) including a photonic chip (12) including a light guide (13), the receptor (14) being arranged such that it interacts with the analyte present in the fluid, the interaction causing a local property change, the sensor (10) comprising a sensor support (50), a closure element (60) and a local property change converter capable of converting the local property change into an electronic signal representative of the local property change and comprising a light source (130) and a photodetector (131), the light guide comprising an interference arm (134) into which a resulting light beam is directed, the radiant power of the light beam directed into the interference arm being equal to or greater than 0.2 μW.

Description

Detailed description of the invention

[0001] (Technical field) The field of the present invention is measurement and physical analysis techniques, particularly electronic measurement and physical analysis techniques. More specifically, the present invention relates to an electronic device for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, and to an electronic analysis device that presents a sensor. The present invention also relates to a method for replacing the sensor.

[0002] (Conventional technology) Electronic analytical devices are known that enable the detection of the presence of an analyte in a fluid, such as a gas or liquid, the identification of the analyte to be identified, and, in some cases, the concentration of the analyte in the fluid to be measured. The analyte may be a combination of target compounds, for example, a mixture of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can produce odors. For this reason, these devices are sometimes classified as electronic noses or tongues, depending on whether they function for gases or liquids.

[0003] The detection principle in these devices can be based on the interaction between a receptor incorporated into the sensor and the analyte. This interaction is based on the physical-chemical affinity properties between the receptor and the analyte, particularly between the receptor and the target compound of the analyte. These interactions result in one or more localized property changes, revealing the presence of the analyte, or even the amount of analyte present.

[0004] The receptor can be selected from a variety of compounds or materials suitable for constituting a transient ligand for the target compound. These include, but are not limited to, specific molecules, peptides, polymers, biomarkers, nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes. The binding force in question is generally a weak force (Van Der Waals type force).

[0005] Converters are generally used to convert this local characteristic change into a multidimensional electronic signal that represents this local characteristic change. An electronic signal is generated for each receptor. The set of electronic signals constitutes a multidimensional electronic signal. By means of processing and analyzing this multidimensional electronic signal, it is even possible to perform qualitative or quantitative measurements of the analyte present in the analyzed fluid.

[0006] Some electronic analysis devices enable the detection of localized characteristic changes by using optical interference. Therefore, an electronic analysis device comprises a sensor with a photonic chip having an optical guide, a transducer with a coherent light source emitting a coherent light beam into the optical guide, and a photodetector at the exit of the optical guide measuring at least one optical parameter of the light beam.

[0007] The optical guide is shaped to allow for the formation of optical interference, and the receptor is incorporated into the optical guide. Local property changes generated by the interaction between the analyte and the receptor in the optical guide create optical interference. Therefore, this optical interference depends on the interaction between the analyte and the receptor and is therefore specific to the analyte being analyzed.

[0008] The generated optical interference modifies the optical parameters measured by the photodetector. Therefore, from the optical parameters measured by the photodetector, the transducer can generate an electronic signal representing local characteristic changes, and thus reveal the analyte.

[0009] For a photodetector to accurately measure the optical parameters of a light beam, the light source and the optical guide must be aligned. This alignment ensures that the amount of light entering the optical guide is sufficient for the photodetector to detect the optical parameters of the light beam at the exit of the optical guide, thus enabling the electronic signal generated by the transducer to represent local characteristic changes and allowing the transducer to detect the presence of the analyte. Therefore, the alignment between the light source and the optical guide is also crucial for the qualitative or quantitative determination of the analyte present in the fluid being analyzed.

[0010] However, the receptors used to interact with the analyte are transient receptors, meaning they have a more limited lifespan than other components of the device. In fact, the interaction between the receptor and the analyte can lead to receptor saturation. When a receptor becomes saturated, it can no longer properly interact with the analyte in the fluid. The sensor incorporating the receptor must then be replaced.

[0011] The receptor may also be specific to the type of analyte to be detected. In fact, a receptor may exhibit a particular affinity for a given type of analyte. Therefore, if you wish to change the type of analyte to be detected, it may be necessary to replace the sensor with another sensor that has a receptor suitable for detecting the new type of analyte you wish to detect.

[0012] Therefore, to limit costs, it is understood that if a transient receptor no longer functions, or if it is desired to detect a different analyte, it is preferable to replace the sensor within the device rather than having to change the entire device.

[0013] When a sensor is replaced, it is essential to ensure that the optical guide of the new sensor is aligned with the device's light source. For the user replacing the sensor, ensuring proper alignment between the light source and the optical guide input is a time-consuming and cumbersome process.

[0014] US20120214707A1 is a patent application disclosing a method and measurement system for detecting an analyte in a fluid (vapor, gas,

[0002] ) sample SAM. The system comprises an interference sensor in which a light beam generated from a laser LSO is coupled to an optical (channel) waveguide structure WGS. The waveguide structure WGS consists of three layers: a substrate SUB, a core layer COR, and a cover layer COV (Figure 1(a), (b)). The (bio)sensor device comprises a (portable) measurement system pod and a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) system. The LOC comprises an inlet INL, a fluid ((micro)fluid cuvette FCV) supply source, a detection unit SRG including a measurement (pre-coated with receptor REC) and reference area, and an exhaust port OTL for discharging the fluid or air or another gas after supplying the sample to the detection unit. The system may be replaceable. The fluid connection to the LOC system may be configured to allow for rapid replacement, for example, as a modular unit that can be rapidly positioned during insertion of the LOC system into the POD system. This system may be preferred in combination with an automated alignment method to allow for faster and better coupling of the (laser) light beam to the optical waveguide tip after insertion of the LOC system into the POD system. In addition, the receptor REC layer used to pre-coat the tip can be better preserved in such an integrated, sealed system. Such a closed system can protect receptors such as antibodies from (rapid) degradation and can also prevent contamination of the detection area / window after the pre-coating process and before application of the analyte sample. This closed system for protecting the receptor REC is formed by a pod. A detector, for example, a CCD camera contained in (but not on) the pod, allows for reading the optical measurement signal from the interference sensor.

[0015] EP2327955A1 describes an optical detection system for label-free high-sensitivity bioassays, comprising an optical measurement system (100) and an element (200) for receiving a fluid having a plurality of analytes, said element comprising a plurality of biosensitive cells (201). The optical measurement system (100) comprises at least one excitation source (101), an optical head (103, 103a, 103b) configured to analyze each of said biosensitive cells and the analyte objects they contain, and optical means (102) for detecting the signals resulting from the optical head (103, 103a, 103b). Each biosensitive cell comprises a substrate (55) and a plurality of resonance cavities (53), each cavity being defined by one of said micropillars, the base of said cavity being placed on said substrate so as to receive the fluid in which the space between said micropillars is analyzed, and at least two of a plurality of Bragg reflectors per resonance cavity (53), respectively arranged at each end of said micropillar, and a plurality of molecular receptors (54) coupled to the side of said micropillar so as to contact said fluid. This label-free bio-detection system is intended to be competitive in terms of industrial commercialization, sensitivity, measurement cadence, robustness, and cost by combining several detection methods (combining the advantages of interference and resonance of a novel photonic structure, in particular with optical interrogation techniques such as vertical optical interrogation technology, similar to the [..] interrogation process of paragraph D2, item

[0001] , with optical interrogation techniques such as spectroscopy, ellipsometry, etc.).

[0016] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a compact and integrated electronic analysis device in which the sensor is consumable and replaceable, and the alignment between the light source and the light guide inlet is not left to the user replacing the sensor.

[0017] [[ID=⑧]]Another object of the present invention is to provide a compact and integrated electronic analysis device that minimizes or even prevents incorrect qualitative or quantitative measurements of analyte objects present in the fluid to be analyzed.

[0018] It should be noted that there may be some inaccuracies in the translation of the Japanese text in the original, such as the inappropriate use of some terms. It is recommended to check and correct according to the specific context and professional knowledge.Another object of the present invention is to ensure detection by a detector of local property changes generated by the interaction between a receptor and an analyte, and that the electrical signal generated by the transducer corresponds to the actual interaction between the receptor and the analyte, and to provide a compact and integrated electronic analysis device.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to ensure that the optical parameters of the light beam measured by the photodetector can reveal local property changes.

[0020] (Summary) The present invention aims to address the above-mentioned needs.

[0021] To that end, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides an electronic device for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, the electronic device comprising: - a consumable and replaceable sensor, i) a photonic chip comprising at least one measurement chamber containing an optical waveguide in which a temporary receptor capable of interacting with an analyte present in the fluid is disposed, the possible interaction causing a local property change, the optical waveguide comprising an optical inlet and an optical outlet, the photonic chip, and ii) a cap integral with the photonic chip, the cap comprising an opening suitable for introducing the fluid into the measurement chamber and discharging the fluid from the measurement chamber, including the sensor, and - a sensor support including a housing in which the sensor is intended to be reversibly disposed, - a closure element cooperating with the sensor support to enclose the sensor, - a local property change transducer that can convert the change, which is caused by the interaction between the receptor and the analyte, into an electrical signal representing the local property change, the transducer comprising - on the one hand, a coherent light source capable of emitting a coherent light beam into the optical waveguide of the photonic chip, and on the other hand, a coherent light source positioned on the cap of the sensor or on the closure element, -Includes a photodetector positioned opposite the optical exit of the optical guide, which can measure the optical parameters of the light beam in response to local characteristic changes at the exit of the optical guide.

[0022] Sensors are consumables and are reversibly positioned. Therefore, sensors can be replaced without having to change any other components of the device.

[0023] In addition, thanks to the positioning of the light source on the sensor cap or closing element, users replacing the sensor do not need to deal with aligning the light source with the entrance of the light guide when replacing the sensor.

[0024] In fact, when the light source is placed on the sensor cap, during sensor replacement, the light source is removed along with the sensor, and when the new sensor is integrated into the housing of the sensor support, the new light source, placed on the cap of the new sensor, is introduced into the device. Therefore, the alignment between the light source and the optical inlet of the optical guide is the responsibility of the sensor manufacturer that places the light source on the cap.

[0025] Therefore, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the light source is positioned on the sensor cap, and the alignment between the light source and the light inlet of the light guide plate is performed when the device according to the present invention is manufactured.

[0026] Furthermore, according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the light source is positioned on the closure element, and the alignment between the light source and the entrance of the optical guide is achieved at the moment the sensor is sealed by positioning the sensor within the support housing and by the cooperation between the closure element and the support. Thus, when the sensor is replaced, the light source remains on the closure element, and the alignment between the light source and the entrance of the optical guide is ensured by the indexing of the closure element relative to the sensor support, as designed by the manufacturer.

[0027] In a modified version, the light guide comprises at least one branching section, which includes a reference arm intended to guide a portion of the light beam emitted by a light source by total internal reflection, and a measuring arm on which a receptor is located, intended to guide another portion of the light beam emitted by the light source by total internal reflection. The reference arm and the measuring arm are recombined into an interference arm intended to guide a light beam resulting from the recombination of the portion of the light beam guided by the reference arm and the other portion of the light beam guided by the measuring arm, and the radiated power of the resulting light beam guided into the interference arm is 0.2 μW or more.

[0028] By setting the minimum power of the resulting light beam to 0.2 μW, it is ensured that a sufficient amount of light passes through the optical guide, and as a result, the detector can measure the optical parameters of the light beam at the exit of the optical guide.

[0029] Furthermore, this minimum power of the resulting light beam ensures that when the optical parameters of the light beam are altered by local characteristic changes, these changes can be measured by the photodetector. In particular, the photodetector is therefore sensitive to fluctuations in the values ​​of optical parameters caused by the presence of the analyte due to local characteristic changes. Thus, the electronic signal generated by the transducer clearly represents the local characteristic changes. Even qualitative or quantitative measurements of the analyte present in the analyzed fluid can be performed accurately.

[0030] In a modified version, the electronic analysis device comprises multiple branches, each branch comprising a reference arm and a measuring arm that recombine with an interference arm. For example, the electronic analysis device comprises 64 branches. The detection accuracy of the analyte determination is improved because the light beam resulting from each branch is measured. Each branch provides its own detection, and the light beam measured by the photodetector at the exit of the guide is affected by each branch.

[0031] In one variant, each branch's interference arm has a first end connected to the reference arm and the measuring arm, and a second end through which the resulting light beam is intended to be emitted. Thus, the second end forms the light exit of the optical guide. If the optical guide includes several branches, the light exit of the optical guide is formed by the second end of each interference arm. Thus, the light beam at the exit of the optical guide is formed by all of the resulting light beams guided into the interference arms.

[0032] In a modified version, the interference arm of each branch is divided at its second end into three sub-arms, and the resulting light beam is separated and guided to each of these three sub-arms, which are configured to shift the phase of the resulting light beam by 120° between each of the sub-arms. In other words, the interference arm is divided into a first sub-arm configured to receive a first portion of the resulting light beam and to shift the phase of the first portion of the resulting light beam by 0° relative to the resulting light beam; a second sub-arm configured not to shift the phase of the first portion of the resulting light beam, to receive a second portion of the resulting light beam and to shift it by 120° relative to the resulting light beam; and a third sub-arm configured to receive a third portion of the resulting light beam and to shift the phase of the third portion of the resulting light beam by 240° relative to the resulting light beam.

[0033] Next, the optical exit of the optical guide is formed by all three sub-arms. Therefore, the radiated power of the resulting optical beam corresponds to the sum of the radiated power at each exit of the three sub-arms, i.e., the sum of the radiated power from the first portion of the resulting optical beam, the second portion of the resulting optical beam, and the third portion of the resulting optical beam.

[0034] If the optical guide includes several branches, the optical exit of the optical guide is formed by all three sub-arms of each interference arm. Therefore, the optical beam at the exit of the optical guide is formed by all portions of the resulting optical beam guided by the sub-arms of each interference arm.

[0035] According to the modified version, the cap has a top surface positioned to face a closing element, and the light beam emitted by the light source has a radiation axis substantially parallel to the top surface of the cap.

[0036] The perpendicular incidence of the light beam on the top surface of the cap facilitates the integration of the light source into the electronic analysis device, especially when the light source is positioned on the cap. In addition, this facilitates alignment between the light source and the entry point of the optical guide. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the electronic analysis device.

[0037] According to the modified version, the receptor in the measurement chamber is selected from molecules, peptides, polymers, biomarkers, nanoparticles, or carbon nanotubes.

[0038] In a modified version, the analyte is a combination of target compounds contained in the fluid, such as volatile organic compounds, and preferably, the analyte is a mixture of volatile organic compounds characteristic of the odor contained in the fluid.

[0039] According to the modified version, the photodetector is placed on a closed element.

[0040] Therefore, connecting the power supply to the photodetector becomes easier.

[0041] According to the first alternative configuration, the light source is placed on the sensor cap, and the electronic analysis device is - An etched electron trace on a cap on which a light source is placed, - Electronic circuits on closed elements, -Includes an electrical contactor that allows an electronic trace to be connected to an electronic circuit in order to supply power to a light source.

[0042] Therefore, the light source can be easily powered via electronic circuits and electronic traces.

[0043] For example, electrical connectors use Pogo® pins.

[0044] According to the second alternative embodiment, the light source is placed on a closed element, and the electronic analysis device preferably comprises an optical system having at least one lens intended to collimate the light beam.

[0045] Therefore, the incident angle of the light beam at the entrance of the optical guide can be controlled more effectively.

[0046] In a modified version, the sensor includes a protective member for a transient receptor configured to become active before the sensor is placed within the housing of the sensor support and to become deactivated upon placement of the sensor within the housing of the sensor support.

[0047] Therefore, the transient receptors that form the sensitive portion of the device are protected by a protective member. Thus, the transient receptors are isolated from the external atmosphere before the sensor is placed within the sensor support and are not altered before use in the device. This protective member is placed immediately after manufacturing and therefore remains in place during sensor storage and until the sensor is incorporated into the electronic analysis device, where the transient receptors are no longer at risk of exogenous contamination. Protection of the transient receptors is achieved without compromising the ease of placing the sensor into and removing it from the device, or the quality of analysis.

[0048] Furthermore, when the sensor is placed within the housing of the sensor support, the cooperation between the temporary receptor protection member and the sensor support allows for the deactivation of protection of the temporary receptor. Therefore, the fluid can circulate within the sensor's measurement chamber and reach the temporary receptor. Thus, the deactivation of the protection ensures optimal use of the sensor and the temporary receptor.

[0049] According to the modified version, the temporary receptor protective member includes a constructed protective envelope. - Before the sensor is placed inside the housing of the sensor support, close the cap opening. - The closing element cooperates with the sensor so that it is perforated facing the cap opening when the sensor is placed inside the housing of the sensor support.

[0050] In a modified version, the closing element comprises a peripheral wall that reversibly engages with the sensor support.

[0051] This arrangement between the peripheral wall and the sensor support optimizes the alignment between the closing element and the sensor support. When the light source is placed on the closing element, the fit between the peripheral wall of the closing element and the sensor support ensures the alignment between the light source and the entrance of the light guide.

[0052] According to the modified version, the closing element includes a connection that communicates with the cap opening and fluid, allowing fluid to flow into and out of the measuring chamber.

[0053] Therefore, the fluid can be received by the closing element through the connection.

[0054] In a modified version, the cap opening comprises an intake opening configured to introduce fluid into the measuring chamber and an exhaust opening configured to discharge fluid from the measuring chamber.

[0055] Therefore, the fluid being analyzed can circulate between the intake and exhaust ports during measurement.

[0056] In a modified version, the connection portion of the closing element includes a fluid intake conduit that communicates with the suction opening of the cap and a fluid discharge conduit that communicates with the discharge opening of the cap.

[0057] In a modified version, the intake conduit, i.e., the exhaust conduit, each comprises a base having a contact surface positioned to face the intake opening, i.e., the exhaust opening, in order to ensure the airtightness of the measuring chamber, and these contact surfaces extend to both sides of the exhaust opening, respectively.

[0058] The base ensures good contact between the suction conduit, discharge conduit, and measuring chamber to guarantee leak prevention between the suction conduit, discharge conduit, and sensor cap. Furthermore, it facilitates alignment between the suction conduit and the suction opening on the one hand, and between the discharge conduit and the discharge opening on the other hand.

[0059] In the modified example, the local characteristic change is the change in the optical refractive index of the sensor.

[0060] In a modified version, the optical parameter is light intensity or radiant power.

[0061] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for replacing the sensor of an electronic analysis device according to a first aspect of the present invention. - The sensor is removed from the housing of the sensor support. - The new sensor is placed inside the housing of the sensor support.

[0062] (Brief explanation of the drawing) Other features, details, and advantages will become clear by reading the detailed description below and analyzing the attached drawings.

[0063] Figure 1 [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an electronic analysis device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, comprising a sensor, a sensor support, a closure element, and a transducer.

[0064] Figure 2 [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal plane of the electronic analysis device shown in Figure 1.

[0065] Figure 3 [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a top view of the photonic chip of the sensor of the electronic analysis device shown in Figure 1, which includes a measurement chamber equipped with an optical guide.

[0066] Figure 4 [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a magnified view of the area referred to in IV of Figure 3, representing a portion of the optical guide located near the optical entrance of the optical guide.

[0067] Figure 5 [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated by V in Figure 4, which represents the branching of the optical guide having a reference arm and a measuring arm.

[0068] Figure 6 [Figure 6] Figure 6 schematically shows an optical guide branch having a reference arm and a measurement arm with an integrated receptor.

[0069] Figure 7 [Figure 7] Figure 7 schematically shows the reaction between the receptor being analyzed and the analyte.

[0070] Figure 8 [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a magnified view of the area indicated as VIII in Figure 3, which represents a part of the optical exit of the optical guide.

[0071] Figure 9 [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic analysis device of Figure 1, configured according to the first embodiment, along the longitudinal plane, with the light source of the converter positioned on the sensor cap.

[0072] Figure 10 [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated by X in Figure 9, including the light source.

[0073] Figure 11 [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a schematic cross-sectional view similar to Figure 9 of an electronic analysis device configured according to a second embodiment, in which the light source of the converter is placed on a closed element.

[0074] Figure 12 [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the image formed by the photodetector of the converter.

[0075] Figure 13 [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a graph illustrating the electrical signals formed by the converter.

[0076] Figure 14 [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the third calibration method according to the present invention on an image formed by the photodetector of the converter.

[0077] Figure 15 [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a modified example of the third calibration method according to the present invention with respect to the image formed by the photodetector of the converter.

[0078] Figure 16 [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an image formed by the photodetector of the transducer that has not been calibrated according to the first, second, and third calibration methods of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 17 [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows images formed by the photodetector of the converter, which has been calibrated according to the first, second, and third calibration methods of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 18 [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows a schematic cross-sectional view similar to Figure 9 or Figure 11 of an electronic analysis device configured according to a modified embodiment, in which a cap defining the measurement chamber is located below the photonic chip.

[0081] (Description of the embodiment) In drawings, the same reference numeral indicates the same or similar element.

[0082] Figure 1 shows an electronic analysis device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the electronic analysis device 1 along the longitudinal plane B shown in Figure 1, and Figure 9 also shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic analysis device 1 along the longitudinal plane B shown in Figure 1.

[0083] The electronic analysis device 1 includes a replaceable sensor 10, enabling the analysis of an analyte 2 whose presence in the fluid being analyzed is demonstrated by the sensor 10. Thus, the electronic analysis device 1 can detect the presence of the analyte 2 in the fluid being analyzed, or even determine the amount of the analyte 2 in the fluid being analyzed.

[0084] The fluid may be a gas or a liquid. Analyte 2 may be a target compound, for example, a combination of volatile organic compounds contained in the fluid. In particular, Analyte 2 may be a mixture of volatile organic compounds characteristic of the odor contained in the fluid.

[0085] The electronic analysis device 1 also includes a sensor support 50 comprising a housing 51 in which the sensor 10 is reversibly positioned, and a closing element 60. In particular, the sensor support 50 includes a recess that forms the housing 51. The closing element 60 cooperates with the sensor support 50 to encapsulate the sensor 10. Thus, the sensor 10 is protected by the sensor support 50 and the closing element 60.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the closing element 60 is formed by an upper part 62 positioned facing the sensor 10 and a lower part positioned facing the sensor support 50. The upper part 62 and the lower part 63 are connected by a hinge 64. Thus, the closing element 60 is able to protect the sensor 10. Alternatively, the closing element 60 may be formed by the upper part 62 alone.

[0087] Sensor 10 comprises a photonic chip 12, as shown in Figures 2 and 9, the top view of which is shown in Figure 3. The photonic chip 12 comprises a measurement chamber 11 that enables the demonstration of the presence of an analyte 2 in the fluid to be analyzed. An optical guide 13 on which a receptor 14 is located is positioned within the measurement chamber 11 on a surface 12° of the photonic chip 12 facing the measurement chamber 11. This surface 12°, functionally activated by the receptor 14, can interact with the analyte 2 present in the fluid to be analyzed. The interaction between the receptor 14 and the analyte 2 causes a local property change. Thus, when the receptor 14 is in the presence of the analyte 2, at least one local property characteristic of the medium on which the receptor 14 is located is modified. In the illustrated embodiment, the local property is the optical refractive index of the medium.

[0088] The receptor 14 can be selected from molecules, peptides, polymers, biomarkers, nanoparticles, or carbon nanotubes. The receptor 14 is transient; it has a more limited lifespan than other components of the electronic analysis device 1. In fact, the receptor 14 can be saturated by the interaction between the receptor 14 and the analyte 2. Furthermore, they are specific to the detection of certain types of analytes and must be replaced when the analyte to be detected changes.

[0089] The optical guide 13 includes an optical inlet 135 and an optical outlet 136.

[0090] Figure 4 shows a magnified view of reference IV in Figure 3, which shows a part of the optical guide 13 located near the optical inlet 135, and Figure 5 shows a magnified view of reference V in Figure 4, in which the optical guide 13 is divided into multiple branches 137, and each branch 137 is divided into a reference arm 132 and a measurement arm 133, where the receptor 14 is located. The reference arm 132 and the measurement arm 133 reconnect to the interference arm 134.

[0091] Figure 6 schematically shows the branching 137 of the optical guide 13, and the receptor 14 is positioned within the measurement arm 133 and interacts with the analyte 2.

[0092] To form the branch 137, the optical guide 13 is continuously divided starting from the optical inlet 135. In particular, as can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, the optical guide 13 is divided into two first column sections 13a and 13b of the same length that constitute the first stage of the optical guide 13, and then each of these first column sections 13a and 13b is divided into two to form four second column sections 13aa, 13ab, 13ba, and 13bb of the same length that constitute the second stage of the optical guide 13. Each of the second column sections 13aa, 13ab, 13ba, and 13bb is then divided in two to form eight third column sections of the same length that constitute the third stage of the optical guide 13. Then, each of the third column sections is then divided in two to form sixteen fourth column sections of the same length that constitute the fourth stage of the optical guide 13. Then, each of the fourth column sections is then divided in two to form thirty-two fifth column sections of the same length that constitute the fifth stage of the optical guide 13. Then, each of the fifth column sections is then divided in two to form sixty-four sixth column sections that constitute the sixth stage of the optical guide 13. Each of these sixty-four sixth column sections forms one branch 137.

[0093] These sequential divisions of the optical guide allow for an increase in the number of branches 137 that enable the reveal of the presence of the analyte 2. The optical guide 13 may have more or fewer branches 137 than those in the illustrated embodiment. Thus, the optical guide 13 may have more or fewer stages than those in the illustrated embodiment. For example, the optical guide 13 may have five stages, so that the fifth stage has 32 fifth row portions, each forming a branch, or it may have seven stages, so that the seventh stage has 128 seventh row portions, each forming a branch.

[0094] As shown in Figure 5, each branch 137 interference arm 134 has a first end 1341 connected to the reference arm 132 and the measuring arm 133, and a second end 1342. The optical exit 136 of the optical guide 13 is formed by the second end 1342 of the interference arm 134 of each branch 137.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the interference arm 134 of each branch 137 is divided at its second end 1342 into a first sub-arm 134a, a second sub-arm 134b, and a third sub-arm 134c. As shown in Figures 3 and 8, the optical exit 136 of the optical guide 13 is thus formed by all three sub-arms 134a, 134b, and 134c of each branch 137, as shown in an enlarged view of the zone indicated as VIII in Figure 3.

[0096] The sensor 10 may also include a cap 15 integrated with the photonic chip 12. The cap 15 has a top surface 15a positioned facing the closing element 60. The cap 15 also includes an intake opening 16a that allows the fluid to be analyzed to enter the measurement chamber 11, and an exhaust opening 16b that allows the fluid to be discharged from the measurement chamber 11. Thus, the fluid can circulate from the intake opening 16a to the exhaust opening 16b.

[0097] The intake opening 16a is located near the first end of the measuring chamber 11, and the discharge opening 16b is located near the second end of the measuring chamber 11, thus ensuring the passage of fluid through the receptor 14. In a modified version not shown, the cap 15 may have a single opening that allows both the fluid to be analyzed to enter the measuring chamber 11 and the fluid to be discharged from the measuring chamber 11.

[0098] The closure element 60 is equipped with connection parts 57a and 57b that communicate with the cap opening and allow fluid to flow into and out of the measurement chamber. The connection parts 57a and 57b of the closure element 60 are equipped with a fluid intake conduit 57a that communicates with the intake opening 16a of the cap 15 and a fluid discharge conduit 57b that communicates with the discharge opening 16b of the cap 15. The fluid to be analyzed can therefore be introduced into the intake opening 16a by the intake conduit 57a and discharged from the discharge opening 16b by the discharge conduit 57b.

[0099] The suction conduit 57a and discharge conduit 57b each include a base 55 having a contact surface positioned opposite the suction opening 16a to ensure airtightness of the measurement chamber 11, and discharge openings 16b each extending on both sides of the suction opening 16a. The base 55 ensures good contact between the measurement chamber 11, on the one hand, to ensure good contact between the suction conduit 57a and the discharge conduit 57b, and on the other hand, to ensure leak prevention between the suction conduit 57a, the discharge conduit 57b, and the cap 15 of the sensor 10. In addition, the base 55 facilitates alignment between the suction conduit 57a and the suction opening 16a on the one hand, and between the discharge conduit 57b and the discharge opening 16b on the other hand.

[0100] The electronic analysis device 1 also includes a transducer for local property changes caused by the interaction between a transient receptor 14 and the analyte 2. This transducer enables the conversion of local property changes into electronic signals that represent those local property changes.

[0101] The converter comprises a coherent light source 130 and a photodetector 131. The light source 130 may be, for example, a laser diode. The light source 130 is aligned with the optical inlet 135 so that the light source 130 can emit a coherent light beam 129 into the optical guide 13 of the photonic chip 12. The light beam 129 emitted by the light source 130 has an emission axis A substantially perpendicular to the upper surface 15a of the cap 15. Thus, alignment between the light source 130 and the optical inlet 135 of the optical guide 13 is facilitated.

[0102] Alternatively, the emission axis A of the light beam 129 may form a non-zero angle with an axis perpendicular to the upper surface 15a of the cap 15. For example, the angle may be less than 5°, or even less than 1°.

[0103] The photodetector 131 is positioned facing the optical exit 136 of the optical guide 13 and can measure the optical parameters of the light beam 129 at the exit of the optical guide 13 according to local characteristic changes. For example, the photodetector 131 can measure the light intensity of the light beam 129 at the exhaust port of the optical guide 13, or the radiant power of the light beam 129 at the exhaust port of the optical guide 13. The photodetector 131 is positioned on the closing element 60.

[0104] In the first embodiment shown in Figures 1, 2, and 9, the light source 130 is positioned on the cap 15 of the sensor 10. Since the sensor 10 is consumable, replaceable, and reversible within the housing 51 of the sensor support 50, the sensor 10 can be easily replaced without modifying other parts of the device. Only the light source 130 positioned on the cap 15 of the sensor 10 is replaced at the same time as the sensor 10.

[0105] When sensor 10 is replaced with a new sensor, the new sensor also includes a light source on its cap. In this case, the user performing the replacement does not need to deal with the alignment between the light source 130 and the light inlet 135 of the light guide 13, as the alignment is performed by the manufacturer of the new sensor. Thus, the operation of the electronic analysis device 1 is guaranteed after the replacement of sensor 10.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the light source 130 is positioned on an etched electronic trace 128 on a cap 15 as seen in Figure 10, and the closing element 60 comprises an electronic circuit 127. An electrical contactor 126 allows the electronic trace 128 to be connected to the electronic circuit 127 in order to supply power to the light source 130. For example, the electrical connector 127 is a Pogo® pin.

[0107] According to the second embodiment shown in Figure 11, the light source 130 is positioned on the closing element 60. Since the sensor 10 is consumable, replaceable, and reversible within the housing 51 of the sensor support 50, the sensor 10 can be easily replaced without modifying other parts of the device. Unlike the first embodiment, the light source 130 may be retained when the sensor 10 is changed.

[0108] In addition, when sensor 10 is replaced with a new sensor, the alignment of the new sensor between the light source 130 and the optical guide inlet 135 is ensured by the cooperation of the sensor support 50 and the closing element 60. In fact, the new sensor is placed within the housing 51 of the sensor support 50, and the closing element 60 is also indexed relative to the sensor support 50. Thus, thanks to the design of the sensor support 50 and the closing element 60, the alignment between the light source 130 and the optical guide inlet 135 is ensured. The alignment between the light source 130 and the optical guide inlet 135 is the responsibility of the device manufacturer, not the user performing the replacement.

[0109] The optical system 125 is positioned facing the light source 130 to collimate the light beam 129 emitted by the light source 130. For example, the optical system 125 includes at least one lens. In a modified example, the electronic analysis device 1 may lack an optical system, and the light beam 129 emitted by the light source 130 may be sent directly to the light inlet 135 of the optical guide 13.

[0110] In this second embodiment, the light source 130 is directly supplied with energy by the electronic circuit 127 of the closing element 60.

[0111] This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the positioning of the light source 130 in the electronic analysis device 1 and the supply of energy to the light source 130. Other features of the electronic analysis device 1 are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0112] In each of the first and second embodiments, in order to replace the sensor 10, the sensor 10 is first removed from the housing 51 of the sensor support 50, and then the new sensor is positioned within the housing 51 of the sensor support 50.

[0113] Furthermore, in each of the first and second embodiments, the closing element 60 is provided with a peripheral wall 61 that reversibly fits with the sensor support 50, thereby enabling easy access to the sensor 10. In addition, this fit contributes to proper alignment of the closing element 60 with respect to the sensor support 50, and therefore, in the second embodiment, contributes to proper alignment between the light source 130 and the light inlet 135 of the light guide 13.

[0114] In addition, the sensor 10 includes a protective member for a temporary receptor 14, which is configured to become active before the sensor is placed in the housing 51 of the sensor support 10 and to become inactive when the sensor 10 is placed in the housing 51 of the sensor support 50.

[0115] This protective member for the transient receptor 14 can be seen in Figures 9 and 11 and includes a protective envelope 18 that closes the inhalation opening 16a and the exhaust opening 16b of the cap 15 before the sensor 10 is placed inside the housing 51 of the sensor support 50. When the sensor 10 is placed inside the housing 51 of the sensor support 50, the protective envelope 18 cooperates with a closing element 60 so as to be perforated facing the inhalation opening 16a and the exhaust opening 16b of the cap 15.

[0116] The following description explains the propagation of the light beam 129 emitted by the light source 130 in the electronic analysis device 1 and the specific light guide 13. This propagation is identical for all embodiments described.

[0117] When the light beam 129 is emitted by the light source 130, the light beam 129 enters the optical guide 13 through the optical inlet 135.

[0118] For example, the radiant power of the light beam 129 at the entrance of the optical guide is 1 mW or more.

[0119] Next, the light beam 129 is guided into the optical guide 13. Specifically, the light beam 129 is divided at each stage of the optical guide 13 and propagates to each part that makes up the stage. Thus, the light beam propagates to each of the branches 137 of the optical guide 13.

[0120] At each branch 137 of the optical guide 13, a portion of the optical beam is guided by total internal reflection in the reference arm 132, and another portion of the optical beam is guided by total internal reflection in the measuring arm 133. "Guided by total internal reflection" is understood to mean that as the optical beam propagates within the optical guide 13 and comes into contact with the surface of the optical guide 13, a portion of the optical beam is not refracted, i.e., the optical beam is completely reflected.

[0121] The resulting light beam, obtained by recombining a portion of the light beam guided to the reference arm 132 with another portion of the light beam guided to the measurement arm 133, is guided to the interference arm 134.

[0122] Each branch 137 of the optical guide 130 forms an interferometer that enables the detection of the presence of the analyte 2 in the fluid. In fact, when the fluid to be analyzed enters the measurement chamber 11, transient receptors 14 present in each of the measurement arms 133 of the branch 137 of the optical guide 13 interact with the analyte 2. As seen in Figure 7, the analyte 2 binds to the receptor 14, for example. The interaction between the receptor 14 and the analyte 2 then alters the optical refractive index within the measurement arm 133. This alteration of the optical refractive index within the measurement arm 133 produces a phase delay in the light beam guided into the measurement arm 133, but the phase of the light beam guided into the reference arm 132 remains unchanged.

[0123] When the light beam emitted from the measuring arm 133 and the light beam emitted from the reference arm 132 are recombined in the interference arm 134 to form a light beam, a specific interference is formed due to the phase delay caused by the light beam guided to the measuring arm 133. These interferences are involved in a specific light intensity distribution. This specific light intensity distribution is then detected by the photodetector 131.

[0124] Generally, in the device according to the present invention, the resulting light beam is emitted from the branched interference arms 134, which are optionally divided into sub-arms at least once, generating a matrix of specific light intensity distributions (points) (hereinafter referred to as "distributions") in the photodetector, each distribution preferably represented by a grayscale light spot. This distribution matrix is ​​contained in an image, preferably a rectangle, as shown in Figure 12, to illustrate the detection example described below.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, each resulting light beam of branch 137 is separated and guided to three sub-arms 134a, 134b, and 134c, which form the second end of the interference arm 134. Each of these three sub-arms shifts the phase of the resulting light beam such that the phase shift between each sub-arm is equal to 120°. In other words, the first sub-arm 134a receives the first portion of the resulting light beam and shifts the phase of the first portion of the resulting light beam by 0° relative to the resulting light beam, i.e., the phase of the first sub-arm 134a is not shifted by the first portion of the resulting light beam; the second sub-arm 134b receives the second portion of the resulting light beam and shifts the phase of the second portion of the resulting light beam by 120° relative to the resulting light beam; and the third sub-arm 134c receives the third portion of the resulting light beam and shifts the phase of the third portion of the resulting light beam by 240° relative to the resulting light beam.

[0126] Shifting the phase of the resulting light beam by 120° into three resulting portions of the light beam allows the photodetector 131 to obtain higher accuracy against interference formed in the resulting light beam. In particular, the photodetector 131 can detect the sign of the phase shift of the light beam within the measuring arm 133. As a result, since this phase shift is due to the interaction between the receptor 14 and the analyte 2, obtaining the sign of the phase shift allows for better detection of the analyte 2.

[0127] The radiant power of the resulting light beams guided to the interference arms 134 of each branch 137 is 0.2 μW or more, which allows the photodetector 131 to detect a specific intensity distribution generated in the light beam resulting from each branch 137.

[0128] The resulting radiated power of the light beam corresponds to the sum of the radiated powers at each of the outlets of the sub-arms 134a, 134b, and 134c of the interference arm 134. In other words, the resulting radiated power of the light beam corresponds to the sum of the radiated powers from the first portion of the resulting light beam, the second portion of the resulting light beam, and the third portion of the resulting light beam.

[0129] An example of detection performed by the photodetector 131 is shown in Figure 12. For each branch 137 of the optical guide 13, more specifically for each sub-arm 134a, 134b, and 134c of the interference arm 134 of each branch 137, the photodetector 131 receives a specific light intensity distribution. Each specific light intensity distribution is represented by grayscale light spots 1314a, 1314b, and 1314c. For each branch 137, the specific light intensity distribution of the first sub-arm 134a is represented by light spot 1314a, the specific light intensity distribution of the second sub-arm 134b is represented by light spot 1314b, and the specific light intensity distribution of the third sub-arm 134c is represented by light spot 1314c.

[0130] The radiated power of each resulting light beam corresponds to the radiated power of three light spots 1314a, 1314b, and 1314c, which represent the specific light intensity distribution of the first, second, and third portions of the resulting light beam, respectively.

[0131] The grayscale value for each light spot (1314a, 1314b, 1314c) can range from 0 to 255. The higher the grayscale value, the brighter the light spot.

[0132] To optimize the detection performed by the photodetector 131, the detector is preferably calibrated during the first use of the sensor 10.

[0133] Several methods for calibrating the photodetector are possible within the scope of the present invention, in particular for all embodiments of the apparatus according to the present invention described herein, where each light intensity distribution constituting the image within the photodetector is represented by a grayscale light spot. For example, a first calibration method based on the light spot with the highest gradation, a second calibration method considering the quality of alignment between the light source 130 and the light inlet 135 of the light guide 13, and a third calibration method identifying the light intensity distribution (point) emitted by the light guide 13 are described below.

[0134] (First calibration method for a photodetector based on the light spot with the highest grayscale) This calibration is advantageously performed before the first detection, but preferably then can be used for all sensor acquisitions. Calibration may also be invoked at any time by an automated system or by the user to adjust the output values.

[0135] The sensor is preferably not saturated, but can still detect a specific light intensity distribution. Therefore, for at least the duration of the first detection by the photodetector 131, the light spot 1314 with the highest grayscale is taken as a reference, and the exposure time of the photodetector 131, i.e., the duration for which the photodetector 131 measures a specific light intensity distribution, is modified so that each reference light spot 1314 has a predetermined grayscale or falls within a predetermined grayscale range. In other words, this first calibration method, which is advantageously implemented by a computer, essentially consists of the following for at least the duration of the first detection: (i.1) A step of identifying the light spot with the highest grayscale value in a matrix of grayscale light spots (points) contained in the image formed on the photodetector. (ii.1) A process based on this light spot. (iii.1) Exposure time of the photodetector, i.e., the reference light spot is equal to at least a predetermined grayscale Ng°, or grayscale range [Ng 1 _Ng 2 A step of adjusting the duration for which the photodetector measures the specific light intensity distribution so that it has a grayscale Ng contained within [ ].

[0136] Another object of the present invention is an electronic device for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, which is equipped with means for enabling the first calibration method to be performed during the analysis.

[0137] For example, if the grayscale of the reference light spot 1314 is less than a predetermined grayscale Ng°, or if the predetermined grayscale range [Ng 1 -Ng 2 The minimum value of ] Ng 1 If it is less than [Ng°], the exposure time of the photodetector 131 is increased so that the photodetector 131 can receive more light over the duration of the measurement. On the other hand, if the gradation of the reference light spot 1314 is greater than a predetermined gradation Ng°, or if it is within a predetermined grayscale range [Ng°] 1 -Ng 2 The highest value of ] is Ng 2If it is larger, the exposure time of the photodetector 131 is shortened so that the photodetector 131 can receive less light over the duration of the measurement.

[0138] However, it is preferable that the exposure time of the photodetector 131 does not exceed a maximum exposure time, such as 1000 μs. In fact, if it exceeds the maximum exposure time, the time for performing the measurement is too long and sufficient detection accuracy cannot be achieved.

[0139] As the radiant power of the resulting light beam approaches 0.2 μW, although it remains above 0.2 μW, the exposure time becomes longer, so the photodetector 131 can accurately detect the specific light intensity distribution of the resulting light beam.

[0140] If the radiant power of the resulting light beam is less than 0.2 μW, it becomes difficult to properly calibrate the photodetector 131 in order to enable good detection of the specific light intensity distribution of the resulting light beam. In fact, the exposure time that enables the photodetector 131 to capture the resulting light beam becomes larger than the maximum exposure time, and in particular, the exposure time becomes larger than 1000 μs.

[0141] According to one notable possibility, the grayscale Ng°, Ng 1 &Ng 2 is encoded in 8 bits and thus can vary from 0 to 255. For example, Ng° = 150, Ng 1 = 140, Ng 2 = 160.

[0142] Regarding this "first calibration method of the photodetector for the light spot having the highest grayscale", another object of the present invention relates to a first embodiment of a method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid by means of a device according to the present invention, preferably implemented by a computer. This first embodiment is characterized by including a first method for calibrating a photodetector.

[0143] This first embodiment, implemented by a computer, can be implemented by a system comprising a system according to the present invention and a central processing system for the system, preferably forming an integral part of the system ("firmware").

[0144] (Second calibration method to consider the quality of alignment between the light source 130 and the light inlet 135 of the light guide 13) The useful radiant power incident on the surface of the photodetector depends, in particular, on the quality of the alignment between the light source and the entrance of the optical guide.

[0145] The second calibration method according to the present invention is a calibration of the exposure time of the photodetector 131 to correct, in appropriate cases, the measured value of the light beam obtained according to the alignment / misalignment between the light source and the entrance of the light guide, particularly after the replacement of the sensor in the device according to the present invention.

[0146] This calibration is advantageously performed before the first detection, but preferably then can be used for all sensor acquisitions. Calibration may also be invoked at any time by an automated system or by the user to adjust the output values.

[0147] In other words, this second calibration method, which is advantageously performed by a computer, essentially consists of the following, at least during the first detection: (i.2) A step of identifying the light spot with the highest grayscale value in a matrix of grayscale light spots (points) included in the image formed on the photodetector. (ii.2) A process based on this light spot. (iii.2) The exposure time of the photodetector, i.e., the reference light spot, is equal to the upper limit of the grayscale range [Ng 10 ;Ng 20 ] corresponds to a predetermined grayscale Ng max A step of adjusting the duration for which the photodetector measures the specific light intensity distribution so that it has a grayscale Ng that is at least equal to the following. (iv.2) And, Ng = Ng maxIn this case, the process involves repeating the same detection, i.e., the same measurement, several times in order to obtain a matrix of light intensity distributions (points) contained in the (x) image. (v.2) The process of measuring Ng in each (x) image. (vi.2) Ng = Ng max =Ng x If so, the corresponding exposure times are saved for subsequent measurements in all or some of these (x) images, preferably in all of these (x) images.

[0148] Therefore, another object of the present invention is an electronic device for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, which is equipped with means for enabling this second calibration method to be performed during the analysis.

[0149] This second calibration method, in particular through its process (iv.2), makes it possible to smooth out any possible variations caused by noise in several images.

[0150] Advantageously, (x) is between 1 and 30, preferably between 2 and 20.

[0151] Advantageously, the exposure time is 25 to 10,000 μs, preferably 500 to 5,000 μs.

[0152] To have an advantage, [Ng 10 ;Ng 20 ] is defined as follows [16;150].

[0153] With regard to this second calibration method, in order to take into account the quality of alignment between the light source 130 and the optical inlet 135 of the optical guide 13, another object of the present invention relates to a second embodiment of a method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid by a device according to the present invention, which is advantageously carried out by a computer. This second embodiment is characterized by including a second calibration method for a photodetector.

[0154] This second embodiment, which is carried out by a computer analysis method, can be carried out by a system comprising the system according to the present invention and a central processing system for the system, preferably forming an integral part of the system ("firmware").

[0155] (Third calibration method for positioning the light intensity distribution (point) emitted by the optical guide 13) Improving the performance of the device according to the present invention involves arranging the light intensity distribution (points) emitted by the optical guide 13 within a matrix of specific light intensity distributions (points) included in the image formation within the photodetector. By finding these distributions, the system can accurately construct the measured analytical signal (e.g., odor) from reliable information reflecting the measured analyte.

[0156] This calibration is advantageously performed before the first detection, but preferably then can be used for all sensor acquisitions. Calibration may also be invoked at any time, either by an automated system or by the user, to adjust the output values.

[0157] The third calibration method is advantageously performed by computer at least during the first detection and basically consists of the following: (i.3) In a coordinate system XY where the origin is a given point in the image, preferably at one of the corners of the image when the image is rectangular, the matrix of image distributions (points) formed in the preferably rectangular image by the center of the light spot is identified and positioned so that the matrix is ​​thus X n Y of row m A process consisting of light spots. (ii.3) Row X n=b* The brightest light spot in the image is T l Identification process. (iii.3) A process of tracing a scan line that is parallel to the Y-axis and passes through the center of the most luminous spot. (iv.3) The process of performing an angular scan on this scan line by rotating around the center of the most luminous spot according to a +alpha / -alpha angle, thereby forming an angular sector that includes a line parallel to the Y axis. (v.3) The scan line is on row X n=b* Y m-1 A process to obtain the rotation angle (αC) at which the light spot intersects. (vi.3)Y m X of the light spot n-1 For each row, (vi.3.1) Each row X n≠b In this process, the most brightly emitting light spot in the row is identified, (vi.3.2) Trace the scan line passing through the center of this most luminous spot, parallel to the Y-axis, (vi.3.3) In this scan line, line X n≠b Line intersection Y m-1 Find the spot of light, and more specifically, line X n≠b These Y m-1 To find the light spot, an angular scan is performed by rotating around the center of the spot with the highest luminescence, according to the angle (αC). (vii.3) The matrix included in the image within the photodetector [X n xY m The process of determining the coordinates (X,Y) of the light spot. (viii.3) The process of storing the coordinates in memory. (ix.3) ​​In the context of a method according to the present invention for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid using a device according to the present invention, the step of using these coordinates to read the obtained light rays.

[0158] Therefore, another object of the present invention is an electronic device for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid, which is equipped with means for enabling this third calibration method to be performed during the analysis.

[0159] Advantageously, the |alpha| angle (degrees) is 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 8, more preferably 3 to 7.

[0160] Attached Figure 14 illustrates this third calibration method. In this figure, you can see the matrix 200 contained in the rectangular image 201. Matrix 200 is formed by light spots 202. The brightest light spot is indicated by 202*. Figure 14 also shows the alpha scanning angle.

[0161] In this advantageous variation of the third calibration method, in which the image has a rectangular shape and is framed to define its periphery, an additional step is provided, which includes the following essential steps: (i c 3) The image is scanned along the direction that forms the X or Y axis and the beta angle, starting from at least one corner of the frame of the image, preferably at least two opposite corners on the diagonals of the image, and more preferably from the lower right and lower left corners of each image. (ii c 3) When a radiated power / value of P or greater is detected during scanning, the power / value is attributed to the corresponding light spot in the corner of the image, and the associated light spot is identified accordingly.

[0162] Advantageously, the |beta| angle (degrees) is on the order of 30 to 80, preferably 40 to 50, and even more preferably 45.

[0163] Attached Figure 15 shows this modified version of the third calibration method. In this figure, the matrix 200 contained in the rectangular image 201 can be seen. The matrix image 200 is formed by the light spot 202. Scan lines 203 and 204 originate from the upper right and lower left corners of the image 201, respectively, forming 45° angles with the X and Y axes.

[0164] Figures 16 and 17 show, respectively, the first, uncalibrated matrix / image 200 and the second, the matrix 200 calibrated according to the first, second, and third methods described above.

[0165] With respect to this third calibration method for positioning the light intensity distribution (point) emitted by the optical guide 13, another object of the present invention relates to a third embodiment, advantageously performed by a computer, of a method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid by a device according to the present invention, as described in the present invention. This third embodiment is characterized by including a third calibration method for calibrating a photodetector.

[0166] This third embodiment, which is carried out by a computer analysis method, can be carried out by a system comprising the system according to the present invention and a central processing system for the system, preferably forming an integral part of the system ("firmware").

[0167] During detection, the analyte 2 is introduced into the measurement chamber 11 by the intake port 16a and then discharged from the measurement chamber 11 by the discharge port 16b. Thus, the analyte 2 circulates within the measurement chamber 11. Consequently, the interaction between the receptor 14 and the analyte 2 changes over time. The interference formed in the light beam resulting from each branch 137 also changes over time, which means that the specific optical intensity distribution of the light beam resulting from each branch 137 changes over time. Thus, the grayscale of each light spot 1314a, 1314b, and 1314c changes over time.

[0168] For each resulting light beam, and therefore for the first, second, and third portions of each resulting light beam, this variation in grayscale is converted into an electronic signal by the photodetector 131. All of the electronic signals thus generated form a multidimensional electronic signal 31. An example of the multidimensional electronic signal 31 generated by the photodetector 131 is shown in Figure 13.

[0169] The electronic signal represents the phase delay of the light beam guided into the measuring arm 133 compared to the light beam guided into the reference arm 132, at each branch 137, and therefore represents the change in optical refractive index in the measuring arm 133, i.e., the interaction between the analyte 2 and the transient receptor 14. Thus, thanks to the light source 130, the optical guide 13, and the photodetector 131, it is possible to detect the change in optical refractive index produced by the interaction between the analyte 2 and the receptor 14, and therefore to detect the presence of the analyte 2 in the analyzed fluid.

[0170] Figure 13 shows the electronic signals S1, S2, and S3 corresponding to the resulting light beam. Thus, three curves are observed that represent the time-dependent change in the grayscale of the light spot 1314a in the first portion of the resulting light beam, the time-dependent change in the grayscale of the light spot 1314b in the second portion of the resulting light beam, and the time-dependent change in the grayscale of the light spot 1314c in the third portion of the resulting light beam, respectively.

[0171] During time Tb, a known reference fluid is introduced into the measurement chamber 11. The multidimensional electronic signal 31 presents a reference value. During time period Ti, the fluid to be analyzed is introduced into the measurement chamber 11. A modification of the multidimensional electronic signal 31 is then observed. This modification is characteristic of the interaction between the analyte 2 and the receptor 14. During period Tp, the reference fluid is introduced into the measurement chamber again. The multidimensional electronic signal 31 is then modified until it returns to its reference value. This period Tp allows the measurement chamber 11 to be cleared, and the analyte 2 that has interacted with the receptor 14 also exits the measurement chamber 11. At the end of period Tp, the measurement chamber 11 is ready to receive the new fluid to be analyzed, and the receptor 14 is ready to receive the analyte 2 of the new fluid to be analyzed.

[0172] However, it is possible that some of the analyte 2 of the analyzed fluid may remain on the transient receptor 14. In this case, the multidimensional electronic signal will not return to its exact reference value, but will return to a value close to it. If this value is too far from the reference value, the transient receptor 14 must be changed. Sensor 10 needs to be replaced.

[0173] For example, the temporary receptor 14 can be tested in ambient air before any use. Then, an initial reference value for the multidimensional electronic signal 31 is obtained. If, during period Tp, the value of the multidimensional electronic signal 31 takes a value with a deviation of less than 10% compared to the initial reference value, the temporary receptor 14 can be maintained and the sensor 10 can be maintained.

[0174] On the other hand, if, during time Tp, the value of the multidimensional electronic signal 31 takes a value that deviates by more than 10% compared to the initial reference value, the temporary receptor 14 must be changed, and the sensor 10 or electronic analysis device 1 must be replaced.

[0175] In the first and second embodiments of the apparatus according to the present invention, as shown above and in Figures 9 and 11, the photonic tip 12 presents a photoguide 13 and a receptor 14, intended to react with the analyte 2, on its functionally active upper surface facing the measurement chamber 11. The cap 15 defining the measurement chamber 11, as well as the closure element 60 traversed by the intake conduit 57a and the exhaust conduit 57b, are positioned on the photonic tip 12, particularly on its active upper surface.

[0176] According to a modified embodiment of the device according to the present invention shown in Figure 18, the cap 150 defining the measurement chamber 110 is positioned below the photonic chip 120, in particular, below its functionally active lower surface 121 facing the measurement chamber 110.

[0177] Advantageously, the closing element 600 may also be located beneath the photonic chip 120, particularly beneath its functionally active lower surface 121.

[0178] Surface 121 includes a light guide 130 and a receptor 140 intended to react with the analyte 200 (not visible in Figure 18).

[0179] The closing element 600 consists of a lower piece 630 and an upper piece 620, which are traversed by the intake conduit 570a and the exhaust conduit 570b. The lower piece 630 and the upper piece 620 are connected to each other by a hinge 640, which is not shown in Figure 18.

[0180] This modified embodiment of the device according to the present invention offers the advantage that any possible dirt 700 present in the measuring chamber 110 rests on the bottom of the measuring chamber 110 due to gravity. This bottom is formed by the base of the cap 150.

[0181] This advantageous configuration limits the risk of contamination, which is particularly positive for extending the reliability of measurements and the lifespan of the photonic chip.

[0182] The reference numbers in Figure 18 indicate elements equivalent to those in the first two embodiments of the device, and are identified by multiplying the same reference number by 10. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0183] [Figure 1] This represents an electronic analysis device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, comprising a sensor, a sensor support, a closure element, and a transducer. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic analysis device along its longitudinal plane. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a top view of the photonic chip of the sensor of an electronic analysis device, which is equipped with a measurement chamber that includes an optical guide. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view of the area referred to in IV of Figure 3, which represents a portion of the optical guide located near the optical entrance of the optical guide. [Figure 5] Figure 4 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated by V, which represents the branching of the optical guide having a reference arm and a measuring arm. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of an optical guide branch having a reference arm and a measurement arm with an integrated receptor is shown. [Figure 7] This diagram schematically shows the reaction between the receptor being analyzed and the analyte. [Figure 8] Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated by VIII, which represents a portion of the optical exit of the optical guide. [Figure 9] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic analysis device configured according to the first embodiment, along the longitudinal plane, with the light source of the converter positioned on the sensor cap. [Figure 10] This shows an enlarged view of the area indicated by X in Figure 9, including the light source. [Figure 11] This figure shows a schematic cross-sectional view similar to Figure 9 of an electronic analysis device configured according to the second embodiment, in which the light source of the converter is placed on a closed element. [Figure 12] This represents the image formed by the photodetector of the converter. [Figure 13] This graph shows the electrical signals formed by the converter. [Figure 14] The third calibration method according to the present invention is shown on the image formed by the photodetector of the converter. [Figure 15] A modified example of the third calibration method according to the present invention is shown for the image formed by the photodetector of the converter. [Figure 16] This represents an image formed by the photodetector of the converter that has not been calibrated according to the first, second, and third calibration methods of the present invention. [Figure 17] This image shows the image formed by the photodetector of the converter, which has been calibrated according to the first, second, and third calibration methods of the present invention. [Figure 18] This shows a schematic cross-sectional view similar to Figure 9 or Figure 11 of an electronic analysis device configured according to a modified embodiment, in which a cap defining the measurement chamber is positioned below the photonic chip.

Claims

1. An electronic device (1) for analyzing an analyte (2) present in a fluid, A consumable and replaceable sensor (10) having a photonic tip (12, 120) and a cap (15), wherein the photonic tip (12, 120) includes at least one measurement chamber (11, 110) which includes an optical guide (13) on which a transient receptor (14) capable of interacting with an analyte present in a fluid is positioned, the interaction causing a localized characteristic change, the optical guide (13) includes an optical inlet (135) and an optical outlet (136), and the cap (15) is integrated with the photonic tip and includes openings (16a, 16b) suitable for introducing fluid into the measurement chamber and discharging fluid from the measurement chamber, A sensor support (50) including a housing (51) in which the sensor is intended to be reversibly positioned, A closing element (60) that works in cooperation with the sensor support to enclose the sensor, The system comprises a local characteristic change converter capable of converting local characteristic changes caused by the interaction between the receptor and the analyte into an electronic signal representing the local characteristic change, The aforementioned converter is On the one hand, a coherent light beam (129) can be emitted into the optical guide of the photonic chip, and on the other hand, a coherent light source (130) located on the cap or closing element of the sensor, The optical guide includes a photodetector (131) positioned facing the optical exit of the optical guide, which can measure the optical parameters of the light beam in accordance with the local characteristic changes at the exit of the optical guide, The optical guide (13) comprises at least one branch (137) including a reference arm (132) intended to guide a portion of the light beam emitted by the light source by total internal reflection, and a measuring arm (133) on which the receptor (14) is located, intended to guide another portion of the light beam emitted by the light source by total internal reflection. The reference arm (132) and the measuring arm (133) are reconnected to an interference arm (134) to which the resulting light beam is intended to be guided, as a result of recombining a portion of the light beam guided to the reference arm and another portion of the light beam guided to the measuring arm. The resulting light beam is emitted from the interference arm of the branch, and in the photodetector, a matrix of specific light intensity distributions (points) is generated, where each distribution is represented by a grayscale light spot. The system includes means that enable a first calibration method, which is advantageously performed by a computer, to be carried out at least during a first detection, This first calibration method is, (i.1) A step of identifying the light spot having the highest grayscale on a matrix of distributions (points) consisting of grayscale light spots included in the image formed on the photodetector, (ii.1) A process based on this light spot, (iii.1) The process substantially consists of adjusting the exposure time of the photodetector, i.e., the duration for which the photodetector measures the specific light intensity distribution, such that the reference light spot has a grayscale Ng that is at least equal to a predetermined grayscale Ng° or falls within the grayscale range [Ng1 - Ng2]. and / or, The system includes means that enable the execution of a second calibration method, which is advantageously performed by a computer, at least during the first detection, This second calibration method is, (i.2) A step of identifying the light spot having the highest grayscale in a matrix of grayscale light spots (points) included in the image formed on the photodetector, (ii.2) A process that uses this light spot as a reference, (iii.2) A step of adjusting the exposure time of the photodetector, that is, the duration for which the photodetector measures the specific light intensity distribution, such that the reference light spot has a grayscale Ng that is at least equal to a predetermined grayscale Ng max corresponding to the upper limit of the grayscale range [Ng 10 - Ng 20], (iv.2) In the case of Ng = Ng max, (x) In order to obtain a matrix of the number of light intensity distributions (points) contained in the image, the process involves repeating the same detection, i.e., the same measurement, several times, (v.2) A step of measuring Ng in each (x) image, (vi.2) When Ng = Ng max = Ng x, these (x) images consist substantially of the process of saving the corresponding exposure time for subsequent measurements, and / or, The system includes means that enable a third calibration method, which is advantageously performed by a computer, to be carried out at least during the first detection, This third calibration method is, (i.3) The process of identifying and positioning each light spot constituting a matrix contained in an image, preferably a rectangle, by the center of the light spot in a coordinate system XY with a given point in the image as the origin, preferably one of the corners of the image when the image is rectangular, so that the matrix is ​​thus composed of X n rows Y m light spots, (ii.3) A step of identifying the brightest light spot T l in the image within row X n = b, (iii.3) In an image having a rectangular shape, the process of tracing a scan line that is parallel to the Y-axis and passes through the center of the most luminous spot, (iv.3) In this scanning line, the angle scanning is performed by rotating around the center of the most luminous spot according to the +alpha / -alpha angle, and an angle sector including a line parallel to the Y axis is formed. (v.3) A step to obtain the rotation angle (alpha C) at which the scan line intersects with the Y m-1 light spot in row X n = b*, (vi.3) For each of the X n-1 rays of the Y m light spot, (vi.3.1) In each row X n ≠ b*, identify the most brightly emitting light spot in the row, (vi.3.2) Trace a scan line that passes through the center of this most luminous spot, while also being parallel to the Y-axis in the rectangular image. (vi.3.3) In order to find lines that intersect with Y m-1 light spots in rows where X n ≠ b*, more specifically in order to find these Y m-1 light spots in rows where X n ≠ b*, the process involves performing an angular scan on this scan line by rotating around the center of the most luminous spot according to the angle (alpha C), (vii.3) A step of obtaining the coordinates (X,Y) of the [X n xY m] light spot included in the image formed by the photodetector and constituting the matrix, (viiii.3) The process of storing these coordinates in memory, (ix.3) ​​In the context of a method according to the present invention for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid using an apparatus according to the present invention, the step of using these coordinates to read the obtained light rays is included, Electronic device (1).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the radiant power of the light beam resulting from being guided by the interference arm (134) is 0.2 μW or more.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the interfering arm is divided into sub-arms at least once.

4. The light source is located on the cap of the sensor, An etched electron trace (128) on the cap on which the light source is arranged, The electronic circuit (127) on the aforementioned closing element, The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an electrical contactor (126) that enables the connection of the electronic trace to the electronic circuit in order to supply power to the light source.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the light source comprises an optical system preferably including at least one lens disposed on the closing element and intended to collimate the light beam.

6. The sensor comprises a protective member for the temporary receptor, configured to be activated before the sensor is placed in the housing of the sensor support and to be deactivated by the placement of the sensor in the housing of the sensor support, The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the protective member for the temporary receptor includes a protective envelope that cooperates with the closing element to close the cap opening before the sensor is placed in the housing of the sensor support, and to be perforated facing the cap opening when the sensor is placed in the housing of the sensor support.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cap (150) defining the measurement chamber (110) is positioned below the photonic chip (120), particularly below its functionally active lower surface (121) facing the measurement chamber (110).

8. A method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid using a device according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, The method is characterized by comprising the first calibration method for the photodetector, which is advantageously performed by a computer.

9. A method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid using a device according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, The method is characterized by comprising the second calibration method for the photodetector, which is advantageously performed by a computer.

10. A method for analyzing an analyte present in a fluid using a device according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, The method is characterized by comprising the third calibration method for the photodetector, which is advantageously performed by a computer.

11. A method for replacing the sensor (10) of an electronic analysis device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The steps include removing the sensor from the housing of the sensor support, A method comprising the steps of: positioning a new sensor within the housing of the sensor support.

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