Dispenser Array Alignment via Fiducial Marker Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nanoliter chip systems face challenges in complex and time-consuming preparation and processing, particularly in transferring large collections of fluid samples into high-density arrays, due to misalignment issues during the registration of dispenser pins with microfluidic arrays, which affects the efficient loading and formatting of samples.
Innovation Solution
A method involving camera-based systems for precise registration of dispenser arrays relative to microfluidic arrays, using fiducial references and coordinate transformations to align the dispenser array with the microfluidic array in three-dimensional space, ensuring accurate positioning and orientation, and a process for differential coating of substrates to facilitate efficient sample loading and chemical modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment methods are used for dispenser pins with microfluidic arrays, then the preparation process is simple, but the alignment precision is insufficient leading to transfer errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with an automated optical alignment system using cameras and computer vision. The system captures images of fiducial markers on both the dispenser array and microfluidic array, performs coordinate transformations to calculate precise positions, and automatically adjusts dispenser pin positions without manual intervention, achieving sub-pixel alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fiducial markers as intermediary reference objects between the dispenser array and microfluidic array. These markers serve as common reference points that both systems can detect and use to establish precise spatial relationships, enabling accurate alignment through coordinate transformation based on marker positions.
2Productivity
If high-density arrays are used to increase sample capacity, then the productivity increases, but the alignment difficulty increases due to smaller feature sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the high-density array into manageable alignment regions by using multiple fiducial markers distributed across the array. Each marker provides a local reference point, allowing the system to perform coordinate transformations for different regions independently and accurately, maintaining precision even as array density increases.
3Reliability
If complex preparation protocols are used to ensure proper sample loading, then the reliability improves, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs alignment calibration and fiducial marker detection before sample loading begins. By establishing the precise coordinate system and dispenser pin positions in advance, the system eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustments during sample loading, ensuring reliable transfer while reducing overall processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of registering a location of a dispenser array in relation to a microfluidic array is provided. One of the dispenser array and the microfluidic array can be movable in relation to the frame, and the other can be fixed relative to the frame. Their relative positions can be identified by a set of coordinates. Identification of a fiducial marker can occur in a manner permitting the fiducial reference to appear in a first position of a field of view of a first camera when the dispenser array or the microfluidic array is in an alignment position. Quantities related to a vector displacement from the alignment position to a fixed position on the microfluidic array or the dispenser array can be identified. Quantities determined can be used to guide positioning of the dispenser array relative to the microfluidic array.