Compact Automated Biological Sequencing Device with Disposable Cartridges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biological sequencing devices are large, require significant human intervention, and are not portable, leading to potential human error and contamination issues, as well as high power consumption and space requirements.

Innovation Solution

A compact automated biological sequencing device with disposable extraction cartridges that automate nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and sequencing, eliminating the need for manual handling and laboratory settings, featuring a self-contained system with on-board computing and communication capabilities for point-of-need testing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a standard biological sequencing device is used, then sequencing analysis can be performed, but the device requires large-scale equipment and significant space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesequencing analysis capabilityVSAvoiddevice space requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The sequencing system is divided into separate functional modules: a portable sequencer unit and a library preparation system. The sequencer contains minimal essential components for sequencing, while library preparation is performed separately using automated liquid handling robots. This segmentation allows the main sequencing device to be compact and portable while maintaining full sequencing functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The library preparation component is extracted from the sequencer as a separate system. This extraction removes the bulky liquid handling and sample preparation equipment from the portable sequencer, leaving only the essential sequencing components in the field-deployable unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of operation

If manual handling is used in library preparation, then sample processing can be performed, but human error and contamination risk increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample processing capabilityVSAvoiddata accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The library preparation system incorporates automated liquid handling robots that perform all sample processing steps autonomously. The system self-manages reagent dispensing, sample mixing, and plate handling without human intervention, eliminating manual errors and contamination risks while maintaining operational simplicity for the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical handling of samples and reagents is replaced with automated robotic liquid handling systems. These robots use precision mechanical arms and automated pipetting mechanisms to perform library preparation steps, ensuring consistent, contamination-free operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If complete sequencing system is deployed, then full sequencing process can be performed, but power consumption and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesequencing process completionVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The sequencing workflow is segmented into two distinct phases: library preparation (performed in the lab with access to power and resources) and sequencing (performed in the field with minimal power requirements). The portable sequencer is designed to run on battery power for the sequencing phase only, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining complete sequencing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

All sample preparation and library construction steps are completed in advance in the laboratory setting where full power and resources are available. The pre-prepared libraries are then transported to the field and loaded into the portable sequencer, which only needs to perform the sequencing reaction itself, minimizing power requirements during field operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of manufacture

If reusable components are used, then cost is reduced, but cleaning and contamination control become problematic

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent reusabilityVSAvoidcontamination risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs disposable consumables for library preparation, including single-use tips, plates, and reagent reservoirs. These inexpensive disposable components eliminate the need for cleaning and sterilization between uses, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining cost-effectiveness. The portable sequencer uses disposable flow cells that are replaced between sequencing runs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20250102531A1Compact automated biological sequencing device

Publication Date: 2025.03.27 MRIGLOBAL

AI summary

A sequencing device as provided herein includes a cartridge configured to receive a sample of a biological material and prepare the sample for sequencing, a sequencer configured to sequence the prepared sample, and a container configured to receive the cartridge. The cartridge may include a nucleic acid extraction component, a mixing block, and a plurality of tubes for preparing the sample for sequencing. Two actuators may be provided within the container and may be configured to move the tubes to the sequencer via magnets. The container may be portable, such that sequencing may be completed using the sequencing device outside of a lab setting. The cartridge may be removable from the container and may be disposable and configured for one-time use. The operation of the device may be entirely automated.