Multi-Channel Fluid Processing for Precise Parallel Sample Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid processing techniques and devices are susceptible to human error, equipment error, cross contamination, and environmental contamination, leading to imprecise or inaccurate results and are time-consuming and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A fluid processing device with multiple fluid channels and processing stations, featuring synchronized pump and reagent assemblies, that allows simultaneous processing of multiple fluid samples, minimizing human and equipment errors, and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluid processing techniques are used, then processing can be performed with simple equipment, but human error, equipment error, and contamination occur leading to imprecise results
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent fluid channels (first fluid channel, second fluid channel) that are physically separated and isolated from each other. Each channel has its own pump assembly and processing chambers, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining precise control over each sample independently. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling precise processing without the harmful effects of cross-contamination that would occur in simpler, shared-channel systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A separator is introduced as an intermediary component between the first and second fluid channels. This separator maintains physical isolation between channels while allowing the device to function as an integrated system. The intermediary structure enables precise independent processing of each channel without requiring completely separate equipment, thus improving precision without excessive complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple fluid samples are processed sequentially, then equipment complexity is reduced, but processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fluid channels are merged into a single integrated device with shared processing stations. The first and second fluid channels both access the same first processing station and second processing station, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple samples through different channels while using common equipment resources. This merging enables high productivity without requiring completely separate equipment for each sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing stations are designed with universal functionality to handle multiple fluid channels simultaneously. The pump assemblies and processing chambers can operate on different channels at the same time, performing the same processing functions across multiple samples. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling parallel processing that increases productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If conventional separate processing equipment is used for each sample, then processing precision is maintained, but equipment cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables continuous simultaneous processing of multiple samples through dedicated fluid channels. While the first sample progresses through the first processing station, the second sample concurrently progresses through the same station via the isolated second channel. This continuous parallel action maintains consistent preparation quality for each sample while reducing total processing time compared to sequential processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid channels are segmented into isolated pathways that prevent cross-contamination while allowing synchronized operation. Each channel maintains independent fluid flow and sample preparation, ensuring consistent and reliable results for each sample. The segmentation enables simultaneous processing without compromising the reliability and consistency that would be maintained in separate equipment systems.
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 device achieves precise and accurate multi-step fluid processing with reduced costs and time, automating processes like next-generation sequencing, while avoiding cross contamination and equipment costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first process pump assembly associated with each of the two or more fluid channels and a first process chamber associated with each of the two or more fluid channels, wherein the first process pump assemblies of the first processing station are configured to be operable in unison to simultaneously move a fluid through a portion of each associated fluid channel and into each first process chamber
Implementation Method 2
a first reagent pump assembly associated with each of the two or more fluid channels, a first reagent input well associated with each of the two or more fluid channels, and a first reagent channel associated with each first reagent input well connecting each first reagent input well to the first process chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid processing device comprises multiple separate fluid channels and multiple processing stations configured to perform identical and simultaneous process steps on multiple fluid samples in the fluid channels. An embodiment of the fluid processing device is contained in a compact, low-cost, scaled consumable with sample input wells, reagent input wells, and sample output wells.