Flow Cell Temperature Calibration Using Infrared Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sequencing instruments face challenges in accurately controlling and calibrating temperature, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies in sequencing performance due to the temperature sensitivity of enzymes and sequencing chemistry.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a flow cell interface, temperature control device, infrared sensor, and controller for self-calibration, allowing for precise temperature control and calibration without the need for costly tools or on-site technicians, using infrared sensors to measure actual temperatures and adjust the temperature control device based on differences between commanded and actual values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional temperature calibration methods are used, then calibration can be performed, but it requires costly tools and on-site technicians, increasing cost and downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs temperature calibration automatically using its own infrared sensor and controller without requiring external technicians or specialized tools. The controller commands the temperature control device to achieve specific temperature values, the infrared sensor measures actual temperatures, and the system calculates calibration adjustments autonomously, enabling self-service calibration that eliminates downtime and reduces costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based temperature measurement and calibration methods with non-contact infrared sensing. The infrared sensor measures temperature remotely without physical contact, eliminating the need for manual intervention and specialized calibration tools, thereby reducing both cost and time requirements
2Device complexity
If temperature control is not accurately calibrated, then the system operates simpler, but sequencing data quality deteriorates due to spatial variation and temperature sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the infrared sensor continuously measures actual temperatures of the flow cell support, the controller compares these measurements against commanded temperature values, and calibration adjustments are automatically applied based on the difference. This closed-loop feedback ensures accurate temperature control and consistent sequencing data quality without requiring complex manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared sensor serves multiple functions: it acts as both a diagnostic tool for temperature measurement and an integral component of the calibration system. By combining temperature monitoring and calibration functions into a single automated system, the patent maintains simplicity while ensuring reliable sequencing data quality through consistent temperature control
3Measurement precision
If frequent calibration is performed, then temperature accuracy is maintained, but it requires automated systems that increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature control device, infrared sensor, and calibration logic into a single integrated system controlled by a single controller. By merging these components and functions, the system enables frequent automated calibration without proportionally increasing complexity, as the calibration process leverages existing system components rather than adding separate dedicated calibration hardware
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
Enables frequent, accurate temperature calibration, reducing downtime and improving sequencing data quality by minimizing spatial variation and ensuring consistent temperature control across flow cells.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared sensor to measure an actual temperature value of the flow cell support
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and related temperature calibration methods. In accordance with a first implementation, an apparatus includes a flow cell interface, a temperature control device, an infrared sensor, and a controller. The flow cell interface includes a flow cell support and the temperature control device is for the flow cell support. The controller is to command the temperature control device to cause the flow cell support to achieve a temperature value, cause the infrared sensor to measure an actual temperature value of the flow cell support, and calibrate the temperature control device based on a difference between the commanded temperature value and the actual temperature value.