Fluidic Bridge Coupling for Adaptable Sample Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid sample processing systems are not versatile or easily adaptable to different protocols, requiring multiple devices for various processing steps, which complicates sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic bridge device with fluid conduits connecting two sample processing devices, allowing for the transport of prepared samples between them, and a first device with a rotary valve configuration for adaptable fluid flow control, enabling versatile sample preparation and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sequential processing arrangements are used, then each processing step can be performed in dedicated chambers, but the system lacks versatility and cannot be easily adapted to different protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal sample processing system where a single device can perform multiple different processing protocols through a combination of modular chambers and a rotary valve mechanism. The rotary valve allows selective fluidic communication between different chambers, enabling the same physical device to execute various protocols (e.g., different sample preparation sequences, different analysis methods) by simply changing the valve configuration rather than requiring multiple dedicated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a rotary valve that dynamically reconfigures fluidic pathways during operation. The valve can rotate to connect different chambers to the sample processing region, allowing the system to adapt its processing sequence and configuration on-the-fly. This dynamic reconfiguration capability enables transition between different protocols without physical reassembly or complex manual intervention.
2Ease of operation
If multiple devices are used for different processing steps, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases and sample handling becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sample processing functions into a single integrated device. Different processing chambers (e.g., lysis chamber, amplification chamber, detection chamber) are merged within one housing and connected through a common fluidic system controlled by a rotary valve. This consolidation allows samples to be processed through multiple steps in one device, eliminating the need to physically transfer samples between multiple separate devices and simplifying the overall操作流程.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary valve acts as an intermediary mechanism that mediates fluid flow between different chambers and the sample processing region. Instead of requiring direct connections or manual transfers between multiple devices, the rotary valve centrally controls and directs fluid flow, simplifying sample handling by providing a single point of control for navigating samples through different processing stages within one device.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic bridge device for transport of a fluid sample between a first sample processing device and a second sample processing device. The fluidic bridge may include one or more fluid channels extending between fluid-tight couplings attachable to transfer ports of the first and second sample processing device. In one aspect, the first device is a sample preparation device and the second device is an assay device. The fluidic bridge can include at least two fluid conduits, at least one for transport of the prepared sample, and at least one other to facilitate displacement of air to allow flow of the prepared sample through the other fluid conduit. The fluid channels can include one or more of an amplification chamber, a processing chamber, a gas-permeable vent, a bubble trap, a filter, and an external port. Methods of preparing and transporting a fluid sample between devices are provided herein.