Photoresponsive Sensor Module Layout for Probe State Verification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor technologies lack a reliable method to inspect the presence or absence of probe molecules on a sensor chip before measurement, leading to potential sensitivity loss and erroneous detection due to buffer ion residues, which conventional methods fail to distinguish from probe molecule signals.

Innovation Solution

A sensor module system comprising a first sensor module with probe molecules and a second sensor module without probe molecules, utilizing light response to differentiate between buffer ion residues and probe molecule states, allowing non-destructive and non-contact inspection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional sensor measurement methods are used, then probe molecule signals can be detected, but buffer ion residues cannot be distinguished leading to erroneous detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is segmented into two separate sensor modules: a first sensor module with probe molecules for detecting target substances, and a second sensor module without probe molecules for detecting buffer ion residues. This segmentation allows independent measurement of probe molecule signals and buffer ion interference, enabling distinction between the two and eliminating erroneous detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If sensor chip inspection is performed before measurement, then probe molecule presence can be confirmed, but buffer ion residue interference remains undetected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection accuracyVSAvoidbuffer ion residue noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The second sensor module acts as an intermediary device that specifically measures buffer ion residue levels. By introducing this intermediary measurement capability, the system can identify and account for buffer ion interference that would otherwise contaminate the probe molecule detection signals, enabling accurate inspection before measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If a single sensor module is used, then device complexity is minimized, but the ability to differentiate between buffer ions and probe molecules is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor module quantityVSAvoidsignal differentiation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The single sensor module is divided into two distinct modules with different functional characteristics. The first module contains probe molecules and detects both target substances and buffer ions. The second module lacks probe molecules and detects only buffer ions. This segmentation enables signal differentiation while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different local qualities are assigned to the two sensor modules: the first module has probe molecules attached to its sensitive film, while the second module has no probe molecules. This local quality difference enables each module to perform specialized detection functions, with the second module serving as a reference for buffer ion levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables accurate confirmation of probe molecule state while eliminating buffer ion residue noise, maintaining sensitivity and preventing erroneous detection, with the system capable of repeated use through chip replacement and automated cleaning.

Implementation Method 1

a first sensor module including a probe molecule that responds to light irradiation with charge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12529676B2Sensor module system
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 KK TOSHIBA
  • US12529676B2 patent drawing
  • US12529676B2 patent drawing
  • US12529676B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a sensor module system includes a first sensor module including a probe molecule that responds to light irradiation with charge, and a second sensor module including no probe molecule. A first flow path is connected to one end side of the first sensor module, and a second flow path is connected to the other end side. A third flow path branching from the first flow path is connected to one end side of the second sensor module, and a fourth flow path joining the first flow path is connected to the other end side. A valve capable of opening and closing the third flow path is connected to a junction of the first flow path and the third flow path.