Flowcells with Linear Waveguides for High-Density Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analysis systems face limitations in increasing throughput due to the maximum resolution constraints of imaging optics, which restrict the density at which sample material can be distributed, leading to inefficiencies in sample analysis processes such as genetic sequencing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a flowcell design with nanowells and linear waveguides, where differential coupling of light is achieved through strategically positioned gratings and waveguides, allowing for increased sample density beyond the resolution limit by selectively coupling light into specific waveguides, thereby enabling more efficient imaging and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sample material is distributed more densely in the analysis system, then the throughput of the analysis process is improved, but the imaging optics cannot resolve the closely spaced samples due to resolution limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces waveguides as intermediary structures that physically separate the sample distribution plane from the imaging plane. Samples can be densely packed in nanowells while waveguides positioned closer to the imaging optics provide spatial separation, allowing the imaging system to resolve signals from densely packed samples through the waveguide-mediated optical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional sample arrangement directly imaged by optics to a three-dimensional configuration incorporating waveguides. The waveguides add a vertical dimension, positioning samples in nanowells at one depth and waveguides at another, enabling dense lateral packing while maintaining optical resolution through the added depth dimension.
2Productivity
If multiple waveguides are positioned closer than the resolution distance to increase sample density, then throughput is improved, but light from adjacent waveguides causes cross-talk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing alternating grating orientations (e.g., 0 degrees for even waveguides, 90 degrees for odd waveguides) and varying grating parameters at different spatial locations. This local differentiation enables selective optical coupling where each waveguide's grating structure is optimized to couple light only to its intended detector, minimizing cross-talk to adjacent waveguides.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes optical coupling parameters by varying grating characteristics (orientation, period, depth) across different waveguide positions. By modulating these parameters, the system achieves differential coupling where each waveguide has a unique optical signature that can be selectively activated or deactivated, reducing cross-talk while maintaining high density arrangement.
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 approach allows for a significant increase in analysis throughput by enabling denser sample distribution and efficient imaging, as demonstrated by the ability to modulate and extract useful information from scans with controlled cross-talk levels, enhancing the resolution and efficiency of genetic sequencing and other analytical processes.
Implementation Method 1
a first grating for the first linear waveguide, and a second grating for the second linear waveguide, the first and second gratings providing differential coupling of first light and second light
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
For example, a flowcell includes: a nanowell layer having a first set of nanowells and a second set of nanowells to receive a sample; a first linear waveguide associated with the first set of nanowells, and a second linear waveguide associated with the second set of nanowells; and a first grating for the first linear waveguide, and a second grating for the second linear waveguide, the first and second gratings providing differential coupling of first light and second light.