Biosensor Grating Array Crosstalk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biosensors face challenges with increased array density leading to crosstalk between neighboring wells, resulting in inaccurate analytical results due to reduced precision in detecting individual fluorescent signals.
Innovation Solution
The biosensor design incorporates a plurality of sensor units with upper and lower grating elements, where the grating period of the upper elements is less than or equal to the lower elements, and differing polarizing angles between adjacent units to reduce crosstalk and enhance signal detection precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If array density is increased by reducing space width or well pitch, then productivity and throughput are improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to crosstalk between neighboring wells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides each sensor unit into multiple independently addressable wells with distinct optical paths. Each well is segmented with individual aperture features and photodetector elements, allowing separate detection of fluorescent signals from adjacent wells even at high array densities, thereby eliminating crosstalk while maintaining high throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements location-specific optical filtering and detection parameters for each well position. Different wells utilize different aperture configurations, filter wavelengths, or detection angles tailored to their specific spatial positions, enabling precise differentiation of signals from neighboring wells while maintaining high array density
2Productivity
If array density is increased by reducing space width or well pitch, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to crosstalk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates optical isolation features and aperture structures during the initial fabrication process that pre-establish distinct optical boundaries between wells. This preliminary structuring prevents crosstalk from developing during operation, allowing high-density arrays to be manufactured with relaxed precision tolerances while still achieving accurate signal differentiation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary optical elements such as microlenses, aperture masks, or dichroic mirrors positioned between the sample plane and photodetectors. These intermediary components actively sort and direct light from specific wells to corresponding detectors, compensating for manufacturing variations and maintaining precise signal attribution even in high-density arrays
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design effectively reduces crosstalk and allows for precise detection of biological features and bio-reactions, enabling more detailed information and differentiation of bio-samples.
Implementation Method 1
The second aperture feature includes an upper grating element and the first aperture feature includes one or more lower grating elements
Implementation Method 2
an interlayer disposed on the first aperture feature and including an angle-sensitive filter
Implementation Method 3
Each of the sensor units includes one or more photodiodes
Data Source
AI summary
A biosensor is provided. The biosensor includes a plurality of sensor units. Each of the sensor units includes one or more photodiodes, a first aperture feature disposed above the photodiodes, an interlayer disposed on the first aperture feature, a second aperture feature disposed on the interlayer, and a waveguide disposed above the second aperture feature. The second aperture feature includes an upper grating element and the first aperture feature includes one or more lower grating elements, and a grating period of the upper grating element is less than or equal to a grating period of the one or more lower grating elements. A difference of the absolute values between a first polarizing angle of the upper and lower grating elements in one of the sensor units and a second polarizing angle of the upper and lower grating elements in adjacent one of the sensor units is 90°.