Nanopore Array Calibration for Signal Offset Compensation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Nanopore devices face challenges in maintaining accurate and reliable electrical signals due to deviations caused by system variances and fabrication errors, leading to less precise measurements and increased noise, especially over time, which can result in impaired sensing elements affecting overall device performance.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of multiple test signals across nanopore channels to determine offset values, allowing for the calibration of electrical signals to ensure consistent and accurate measurements by adjusting the signal to compensate for device variations and defects, thereby improving measurement robustness and reducing noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a steady working electrical signal is applied across the nanopore array device, then the device can perform measurements, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to system variances and fabrication errors causing signal deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration measurements before actual sensing measurements. Test signals are applied to determine offset values for each sensing element, and these offset values are stored and used to correct subsequent measurement signals. This preliminary calibration step compensates for fabrication errors and system variances before they affect measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual electrical signal applied across each nanopore channel, comparing it to the intended working signal, and using the determined offset values to adjust and correct the measurement signals. This closed-loop approach continuously compensates for signal deviations, improving both reliability and measurement precision.
2Reliability
If the applied electrical signal increases over time to maintain measurement response, then the measurement response is maintained, but noise increases and measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the offset compensation values based on calibration performed at different times. Instead of increasing the applied signal amplitude to maintain response, the system modifies the electrical signal parameters through offset correction, maintaining accurate measurements without increasing noise.
3Measurement precision
If multiple test signals are applied to calibrate each sensing element, then measurement accuracy improves, but the calibration process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using multiple test signals to determine offset values, which provides accurate calibration. The excessive action (applying more test signals than a single measurement) is justified because it establishes a more reliable baseline that compensates for fabrication variations, thereby improving overall measurement precision across the array.
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 calibration method enhances the reliability and accuracy of nanopore array device measurements by accounting for system deviations and device defects, ensuring consistent and robust data interpretation, even as conditions change over time.
Implementation Method 1
an ionic solution in contact with the common electrode and the array of sensing electrodes, the ionic solution providing electrical communication between the common electrode and each of the array of sensing electrodes via the corresponding array of nanopore channels
Implementation Method 2
applying a two or more test signals across the nanopore channels between the common electrode and array of sensing electrodes; measuring a corresponding current or voltage value associated with each sensing electrode for each test signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method of calibrating a nanopore array device. The nanopore array device comprising: a common electrode, an array of sensing elements each comprising a sensing electrode and a nanopore channel, and an ionic solution in contact with the common electrode and the array of sensing electrodes, the ionic solution providing electrical communication between the common electrode and each of the array of sensing electrodes via the corresponding array of nanopore channels. The method comprises the steps of: applying a two or more test signals across the nanopore channels between the common electrode and array of sensing electrode measuring a corresponding current or voltage value associated with each sensing electrode for each test signal, determining an offset value for each sensing electrode from the measured current or voltage signals, and calculating a general offset value from the determined offset values, and applying a calibrated signal between the common electrode and sensing electrodes; wherein the calibrated signal is adjusted by the general offset value.