Fluidic Device Holder Alignment for Precise Automated Sample Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for biological or chemical analysis, such as sequencing-by-synthesis protocols, are limited in capability and cost-effective, necessitating improved systems and methods for performing assays in a simpler and more efficient manner.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic device with a floatable flow cell and gasket alignment, a removable cartridge for positioning, a device holder with alignment members, and an optical assembly with adjustable optical components, along with an integrated imaging system for automated sample analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems for biological or chemical analysis are used, then the analysis can be performed, but the systems are limited in capability and not cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a removable cartridge containing the flow cell, a device holder with alignment members, and an integrated imaging system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system capability, resolving the contradiction between enhanced adaptability and reduced device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device holder is designed with alignment members that can accommodate different flow cell configurations, and the imaging system can detect various reaction types (fluorescence, chemiluminescence). This multi-functionality enhances system capability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same structural elements serve multiple purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems are used, then analysis can be performed, but the systems are not cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell is designed as a disposable component contained within the removable cartridge. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex, and expensive cleaning and sterilization systems, making the overall system more cost-effective while maintaining high assay capability through precise alignment and integrated imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge merges the flow cell, sample loading mechanism, and sealing components into a single integrated unit. This consolidation reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating multiple separate components and assembly steps, while the combined structure maintains full assay capability through its integrated design.
3Measurement precision
If manual alignment methods are used, then components can be assembled, but alignment precision is insufficient for accurate imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment members are designed to automatically guide the flow cell into the correct position when the cartridge is inserted into the device holder. This self-aligning mechanism achieves high alignment precision without requiring manual adjustment or complex alignment procedures, thus maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical alignment with a precision-engineered mechanical guidance system using alignment members and reference surfaces. This substitution provides repeatable, high-precision alignment while simplifying the operator's task to merely inserting the cartridge, resolving the contradiction between precision and simplicity.
4Stability of the object's composition
If fixed optical components are used, then the optical system is stable, but it cannot be adjusted for different imaging requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The optical components are designed with adjustable elements that can be positioned and locked in place. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt to different imaging requirements (different wavelengths, magnifications, detection modes) while maintaining stability during each specific imaging operation, resolving the contradiction between stability and flexibility.
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
Enhances the capability and cost-effectiveness of biological or chemical assays by allowing precise alignment and automated sample analysis, improving the efficiency of sequencing protocols and other reaction detection methods.
Implementation Method 1
The gasket is positioned relative to the reception space so that the inlet and outlet ports of the flow cell are approximately aligned with the inlet and outlet passages of the gasket, respectively
Implementation Method 2
The gasket has inlet and outlet passages and comprises a compressible material
Implementation Method 3
an optical assembly that is configured to direct optical signals to the detector
Implementation Method 4
an optical assembly with adjustable optical components
Implementation Method 5
detecting light emissions from the labels
Implementation Method 6
These chemical reactions may be observed by exciting the labels with radiation and detecting light emissions from the labels
Implementation Method 7
The light emissions may also be provided through other means, such as chemiluminescence
Implementation Method 8
The reception space is sized and shaped to permit the flow cell to float relative to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic device holder configured to orient a fluidic device. The device holder includes a support structure configured to receive a fluidic device. The support structure includes a base surface that faces in a direction along the Z-axis and is configured to have the fluidic device positioned thereon. The device holder also includes a plurality of reference surfaces facing in respective directions along an XY-plane. The device holder also includes an alignment assembly having an actuator and a movable locator arm that is operatively coupled to the actuator. The locator arm has an engagement end. The actuator moves the locator arm between retracted and biased positions to move the engagement end away from and toward the reference surfaces. The locator arm is configured to hold the fluidic device against the reference surfaces when the locator arm is in the biased position.