Sequencing Flow Cell Channels With Gas Gaps for Clean Reagent Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing NGS flow cells require costly, multi-step precision fabrication and are not compatible with inexpensive, off-the-shelf capillaries for efficient handling and reagent switching.
Innovation Solution
A flow cell device with substrates and channels configured for fluid or gas gaps, allowing reagents to flow through, featuring hydrophilic polymer coatings and gas gaps to reduce contamination and facilitate reagent removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multi-layered structures with precision fabrication techniques are used, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell device is divided into separate functional modules: a support structure, a channel component with defined flow paths, and a surface coating layer. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes while maintaining overall precision through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel component is designed to serve multiple functions: defining fluid flow paths, providing a surface for reagent introduction, and facilitating gas gap formation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining manufacturing precision.
2Reliability
If multi-layered structures with precision fabrication are used, then flow cell performance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell device employs a cost-effective design where the channel component can be manufactured using inexpensive materials and simplified processes. The modular design allows for economical production while maintaining sufficient performance for the intended application lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines different materials with complementary properties: the support structure provides mechanical strength, the channel component enables fluid flow, and the hydrophilic polymer coating enhances reagent wettability. This composite approach achieves reliable performance through material synergies rather than complex single-material structures.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If gas gaps are introduced to reduce contamination, then reagent purity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes gas gaps (pneumatic principle) within the channel structure to create physical separation between different reagent zones. This pneumatic barrier prevents contamination by eliminating direct liquid-liquid contact while maintaining a relatively simple channel geometry that does not require complex additional components.
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
Enhances compatibility with off-the-shelf capillaries, reduces contamination, and simplifies reagent handling, while maintaining chemical functionality and sequencing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more channels are configured to allow a fluid or a gas gap between the fluid and another fluid to flow through the one or more channels
Implementation Method 2
the one or more surfaces comprises at least one hydrophilic polymer coating layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides flow cell devices, systems, and methods for facilitating and performing DNA sequencing analysis with reduced system complexity and cost, significant COGS saving and reduced contamination level. The flow cell devices and systems can comprise: a support comprising one or more substrates; one or more channels defined by the one or more substrates and configured to allow fluids to flow therethrough; an inlet in fluidic connection with the one or more channels, the inlet comprising an open landing area in one substrate; and an outlet.