Removable Fluidic Cartridge for Automated Biochemical Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biochemical analysis systems require significant user involvement and are not capable of executing protocols like whole genome sequencing efficiently within a short timeframe and cost effectively, often necessitating manual sample preparation and lacking automation for sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a removable cartridge with a fluidic network and flow-control valve, integrated with a base instrument, allowing for automated sample preparation and analysis by directing biological samples through the cartridge's fluidic network for detection and reaction, reducing user intervention and enhancing protocol execution efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual sample preparation is required, then user involvement is high, but automation and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a base instrument and a removable cartridge. The cartridge contains the fluidic network and reaction chambers, while the base instrument provides automation controls. This segmentation allows the cartridge to be pre-prepared and stored, then automatically loaded and processed by the base instrument, eliminating manual sample preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is pre-assembled with all necessary fluidic channels, reaction chambers, and reagent reservoirs before use. Sample preparation protocols are pre-programmed into the base instrument. When the cartridge is loaded, the system automatically executes the pre-planned preparation steps without requiring user intervention during the actual sample processing.
2Productivity
If automated protocols are implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the system into a simple removable cartridge and a base instrument, the complexity is distributed. The cartridge remains relatively simple and can be manufactured using standard microfluidic techniques, while the automation intelligence is concentrated in the base instrument. This allows high productivity through automation without making the cartridge itself overly complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The base instrument is designed as a universal platform that can execute multiple different protocols by simply changing the cartridge or loading different software programs. The fluidic network in the cartridge is designed with universal features that can accommodate various biochemical reactions. This multi-functionality achieves high productivity across different applications without proportionally increasing cartridge complexity.
3Loss of time
If integrated sample preparation and analysis are implemented, then time efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is segmented into distinct functional zones: sample loading area, fluidic network with channels, reaction chambers, and detection areas. Each zone performs a specific function in the workflow. This segmentation allows the system to execute multiple steps (sample preparation, reaction, analysis) in a streamlined sequence without requiring a single overly complex integrated structure, thus reducing time loss while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge merges multiple functions (sample handling, fluid transport, chemical reactions, and detection) into a single integrated unit that interfaces with the base instrument. By combining these functions in one cartridge, the system eliminates the need to transfer samples between separate devices, significantly reducing analysis time. The complexity is managed by keeping each functional element within the cartridge relatively simple and well-defined.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for conducting designated reactions utilizing a base instrument and a removable cartridge. The removable cartridge includes a fluidic network that receives and fluidically directs a biological sample to conduct the designated reactions. The removable cartridge also includes a flow-control valve that is operably coupled to the fluidic network and is movable relative to the fluidic network to control flow of the biological sample therethrough. The removable cartridge is configured to separably engage a base instrument. The base instrument includes a valve actuator that engages the flow-control valve of the removable cartridge. A detection assembly held by at least one of the removable cartridge or the base instrument may be used to detect the designated reactions.