Reagent Cartridge Fluid Monitoring for Stable Flow Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sequencing platforms face challenges in accurately determining reagent flow rates and volumes within reagent reservoirs due to factors like impedance variability, humidity, and manufacturing tolerances, leading to inconsistencies in fluidic operations.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a sensor module and controller that generate signals associated with reagent volume and flow rate, allowing for real-time adjustments of operating parameters such as pressure and flow time to maintain optimal reagent flow within threshold ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor modules are added to monitor reagent volume and flow rate, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring reagent flow rate and volume using sensor modules and adjusting system parameters (such as pressure or pump speed) based on the measured values to maintain optimal flow conditions within threshold ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical flow measurement systems with sensor-based detection systems that use electrical or optical fields to measure reagent flow rate and volume, simplifying the overall system structure while improving measurement precision
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring and adjustment of pressure is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors reagent flow rate and compares it against threshold ranges, automatically adjusting pressure parameters when deviations are detected to maintain reliable and consistent fluidic operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of pressure parameters that can be adjusted in real-time based on monitored flow conditions, allowing the system to adapt to variations and maintain optimal performance
3Measurement precision
If sensor modules are integrated into reagent cartridges, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into separate sensor modules that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the reagent cartridge, allowing for specialized manufacturing processes for each component and reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements
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
Ensures precise control of reagent flow rates and volumes, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of fluidic operations in sequencing systems by compensating for environmental and manufacturing variations.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor module is adapted to generate a signal associated with a volume of reagent contained within the reagent reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for monitoring fluidics in reagent cartridges and related methods. An apparatus includes a system includes a reagent cartridge receptacle and a flow cell assembly. The apparatus includes a reagent cartridge receivable within the reagent cartridge receptacle and adapted to carry the flow cell assembly. The reagent cartridge includes a reagent reservoir fluidically coupled to the flow cell assembly. The apparatus includes a sensor module adapted to be positioned adjacent the reagent reservoir. The sensor module is adapted to generate a signal associated with a volume of reagent contained within the reagent reservoir.