Flexible Flow Cell Connection for Precise Microfluidic Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microfluidic instruments face challenges in precisely positioning flow cells relative to detection modules due to rigid connections, which lead to difficulties in scanning and detecting small features like light photons, and result in increased vibration and cost due to the large handling equipment required for the detection module.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a flexible connection between the reagent management system and the flow cell allows the flow cell to be moved independently relative to a fixed reference point, reducing vibrations and enabling precise positioning with smaller, less costly handling equipment, while the flexible connection dampens vibrations transmitted from the reagent management system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the detection module is moved relative to the flow cell to scan and detect analytes, then detection capability is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates due to the large size and weight of the detection module
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the heavy detection module relative to the flow cell, the patent inverts the approach by moving the lightweight flow cell relative to the stationary detection module. This is achieved through a flexible connection that allows the flow cell to be positioned and scanned under the stationary detection module, thereby achieving precise positioning with micron-level accuracy while avoiding the handling difficulties associated with moving heavy equipment.
2Measurement precision
If the detection module is moved with high precision to detect small features, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for sophisticated handling equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the system by inverting which component is moved. Instead of using complex handling equipment to position the detection module with micron precision, the system uses a flexible connection to enable straightforward movement and positioning of the lightweight flow cell under the stationary detection module, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining high detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connection acts as an intermediary element that enables the flow cell to be moved and positioned independently relative to the detection module. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by providing a straightforward method for achieving precise positioning without requiring complex handling equipment for the detection module.
3Area of stationary object
If the detection module is moved across the flow cell to scan multiple positions, then detection coverage is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting which component is moved, the patent enables faster scanning. The lightweight flow cell can be quickly positioned and moved under the stationary detection module to scan multiple positions and cover the entire detection area, significantly reducing scanning time compared to moving the heavy detection module across the flow cell.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the detection module is moved with large handling equipment, then detection capability is maintained, but vibrations increase affecting detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates vibrations by inverting the movement approach. Instead of moving the heavy detection module with large handling equipment that generates significant vibrations, the system moves the lightweight flow cell under the stationary detection module using minimal handling equipment, thereby maintaining detection capability while eliminating harmful vibrations that would affect detection accuracy.
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 solution enhances the accuracy and efficiency of detecting analytes by allowing precise movement of the flow cell, reducing vibrations, and enabling faster scanning, thus improving the overall detection process in microfluidic instruments.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible connection dampens vibrations transmitted from the reagent management system
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument includes a reagent management system. The reagent management system includes a plurality of reagent wells, each reagent well operable to contain a reagent of a plurality of reagents positioned therein. The reagent management system is operable to select a flow of reagent from one of the plurality of reagents. A flexible connection includes a laminate stack and includes a first flexible channel in fluid communication with the reagent management system. The first flexible channel is operable to route the flow of reagent therethrough. A flow cell includes a flow channel in fluid communication with the first flexible channel. The flow channel is operable to route the flow of reagent over analytes positioned in the flow channel. The flexible connection enables the flow cell to be moved by the instrument relative to a fixed reference point in the instrument.