Biochip Well With Offset Region For Fluid Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biochip storage and handling systems face challenges in maintaining biochip viability due to uneven reagent or sample distribution and the need for precise positional control during analysis, as well as the inefficiency of opening sealed wells for individual biochip use in random workloads.
Innovation Solution
A biochip well design with a laterally offset region that allows for off-chip fluid dispensation and evacuation, reducing the risk of contamination and damage, and a sealed well assembly with a sealing sheet that can be automatically opened to release individual biochips for use, enabling precise control and high throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fluid dispensing is performed directly onto the biochip surface, then the chip receives reagent or sample, but the distribution is uneven and trending effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a laterally offset region that is spatially separated from the biochip's horizontal plane. Fluid dispensing occurs in this offset region above the chip, allowing the dispensing probe to operate from a different spatial dimension (vertical offset) rather than directly contacting the chip surface. This dimensional separation enables even fluid distribution while reducing positional control requirements.
2Productivity
If the vacuum probe is positioned close to the biochip for evacuation, then evacuation efficiency is improved, but the risk of collision and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laterally offset region provides a spatial zone above the biochip where the vacuum probe can operate without contacting the chip surface. This vertical offset creates a safe operational dimension that maintains evacuation efficiency while eliminating collision and contamination risks.
3Reliability
If multiple biochips are stored in sealed wells for random workload access, then chip viability is maintained, but the time to open and access individual chips increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealed well assembly is designed to be segmented into individual biochip units that can be independently accessed. The well structure allows for individual chip removal or in-situ operation, enabling random access to specific chips without requiring opening of the entire sealed assembly, thus reducing access time while maintaining viability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealed well assembly is prepared in advance with multiple biochips stored in a ready-to-use configuration. The sealing mechanism is pre-configured to allow rapid opening or individual access, so that when a specific chip is needed, it can be quickly accessed without prolonged preparation time, maintaining both viability and fast access.
4Measurement precision
If the probe is positioned precisely over the biochip for fluid dispensing, then direct application is achieved, but the risk of collision and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laterally offset region creates a vertical separation between the dispensing probe and the biochip surface. Fluid can be dispensed with precision from this offset position, achieving accurate fluid application while the spatial separation eliminates collision and damage risks.
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 1(c)~1(d)
Figure 2(a)~2(d)
AI summary
A biochip well is disclosed, comprising a vessel containing a well therewithin, the vessel forming at least base and side walls of the well and defining at least one aperture giving access to the well, and further comprising retaining means for holding a biochip at a predetermined position within the well, the well including a laterally offset region into which the biochip does not protrude when held at the predetermined position by the retaining means. Also disclosed are sealed well assemblies and apparatus and methods for opening sealed wells.