Flowcell Grating Waveguide Light Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analytical processes for sample analysis, such as DNA sequencing, face inefficiencies due to inadequate light illumination and potential sample degradation, particularly when a significant portion of illuminating light does not reach the sample or inadvertently impinges on other parts of the sample.
Innovation Solution
A flowcell architecture is developed, featuring a core layer with a higher refractive index than the substrate and nanowell layer, coupled with a grating to efficiently couple light into the core layer, thereby optimizing light utilization and reducing sample degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional illumination methods are used, then the system is simple to implement, but a significant portion of illuminating light does not reach the sample resulting in low detection efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a grating structure that transforms the illumination from conventional direct lighting to a dimensionally controlled evanescent wave field. The grating couples incident light into the waveguide, creating an evanescent field that extends into the sample region, thereby achieving efficient light-sample interaction without direct illumination of the entire sample area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a waveguide as an intermediary between the light source and the sample. The waveguide core layer with higher refractive index acts as a mediator that guides and confines the evanescent field, enabling efficient energy transfer to the sample while preventing light from reaching unwanted areas.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional illumination methods are used, then the illumination setup is simple, but illuminating light inadvertently impinges on other parts of the sample causing sample degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized evanescent field only in the immediate vicinity of the waveguide surface where the sample is positioned. This localized illumination ensures that only the relevant sample regions are exposed to light, preventing degradation of other sample areas while maintaining simple operational procedures.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a core layer with higher refractive index is introduced to improve light coupling, then light utilization efficiency increases, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by selecting materials with specific refractive index properties. The core layer is designed with a refractive index higher than both the substrate and the surrounding medium, creating the necessary conditions for total internal reflection and evanescent field generation. This parameter optimization enables efficient light coupling while using standard fabrication techniques.
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 proposed solution enhances the efficiency of light utilization for sample excitation, reduces background noise, and minimizes sample degradation, leading to improved analysis outcomes in genetic sequencing and other sample analysis processes.
Implementation Method 1
forming a grating to couple light to the core layer
Implementation Method 2
the core layer having a higher refractive index than the substrate and the nanowell layer
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in one example is a method of manufacturing a flowcell that includes: forming a core layer, the core layer disposed between a substrate and a nanowell layer, the nanowell layer having nanowells to receive a sample, the core layer having a higher refractive index than the substrate and the nanowell layer; and forming a grating to couple light to the core layer.