Compact Imaging Layout for Sequencing with Vertical Optical Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gene sequencing systems require significant horizontal space due to their configuration, leading to inefficiencies in space utilization and sequencing throughput.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with a novel layout where the light source module, focusing module, and first splitter module are integrated on a support seat perpendicular to the lens module, and the second splitter module, focusing lens set, and detector module are distributed on a horizontal benchtop, reducing horizontal space occupation and enhancing integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the optical imaging system is arranged horizontally with multichannel imaging systems on the same reference plane, then the imaging function is achieved, but the horizontal space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a horizontal arrangement of all optical components to a vertical arrangement where the light source, splitter modules, and detector are positioned at different vertical heights. The first carrier stage holds the light source and first splitter module vertically above the second carrier stage which holds the detector, allowing multichannel imaging without increasing horizontal footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the first carrier stage is positioned above the second carrier stage, with optical paths passing through multiple splitter modules at different vertical levels. This nesting allows multiple imaging channels to be integrated within a compact vertical space rather than requiring extensive horizontal arrangement.
2Device complexity
If the light source module, focusing module, and first splitter module are integrated on the support seat, then the integration level is improved and horizontal space is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source module, focusing module, and first splitter module onto a single support seat structure. This consolidation integrates multiple functional components into one unified assembly that can be positioned vertically above the detector, reducing the need for separate horizontal arrangements while maintaining all necessary imaging functions.
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
The compact design improves sequencing efficiency and throughput by minimizing space usage and optimizing the distance between focusing lens sets and detectors, while incorporating optical correction elements for aberration correction.
Implementation Method 1
a lens module arranged on the first carrier stage, wherein an optical axis of the lens module is perpendicular to the benchtop
Implementation Method 2
a first splitter module, wherein the first splitter module is located between the lens module and the focusing module; and a second splitter module
Implementation Method 3
an optical correction element arranged between the lens module and the second splitter module
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses an imaging system and a sequencing system. The imaging system comprises a first carrier stage, a lens module arranged on the first carrier stage, and a first support seat, a second splitter module, a focusing lens set and a detector module arranged on a benchtop of the first carrier stage. The optical axis of the lens module is perpendicular to the benchtop. The first support seat is provided with a light source module, a focusing module, and a first splitter module. The light source module is arranged aside from the optical axis of the lens module. The focusing module and the first splitter module are located on the optical axis of the lens module, and the first splitter module is located between the lens module and the focusing module. At least part of the second splitter module is located on the optical axis of the lens module and located between the first splitter module and the lens module. The focusing lens set is located between the second splitter module and the detector module. As such, the present disclosure improves the integration of the imaging system and reduces the space occupation of the imaging system in the horizontal direction, making the imaging system compact in structure and reducing the volume of the imaging system.