Rotary Valve Fluidics for Automated Sample Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biochemical analysis systems require significant user intervention and are not capable of executing protocols like whole genome sequencing efficiently within a short timeframe and cost constraints, lacking automation and precision in sample preparation and analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a fluidic network with a rotary valve that automates the flow of biological samples and reaction components between channels and reservoirs, utilizing a pump assembly and detection device to perform assays with minimal user input, enabling controlled biochemical reactions and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a user manually prepares biological samples prior to loading into the system, then the system can perform biochemical analysis, but the user involvement and time required for sample preparation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sample preparation and biochemical analysis into a single integrated system. The fluidic network allows samples to be introduced directly into reaction chambers where they automatically undergo preparation steps (lysis, purification) and subsequent analysis without manual intervention between stages, eliminating the need for separate preparation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service through automated fluidic control that automatically introduces samples, reagents, and controls into reaction chambers without user intervention. The microfluidic network autonomously manages sample processing through programmed flow paths, eliminating manual preparation steps while maintaining rapid processing
2Manufacturing precision
If the system performs multiple controlled reactions in a dense array, then analysis quality improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fluidic network into modular reaction chambers arranged in a dense array, with each chamber capable of performing controlled reactions independently. This segmentation allows precise control of individual reactions while maintaining overall system manageability through standardized chamber designs and uniform fluidic connections
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic network employs universal multi-functional components that can perform multiple operations. Reaction chambers serve both as mixing vessels and analysis platforms, while the fluidic network simultaneously performs reagent delivery, waste removal, and sample introduction across all chambers, reducing overall system complexity despite handling multiple reactions
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for conducting designated reactions that include a fluidic network having a sample channel, a reaction chamber, and a reservoir. The sample channel is in flow communication with a sample port. The system also includes a rotary valve that has a flow channel and is configured to rotate between first and second valve positions. The flow channel fluidically couples the reaction chamber and the sample channel when the rotary valve is in the first valve position and fluidically couples the reservoir and the reaction chamber when the rotary valve is in the second valve position. A pump assembly induces a flow of a biological sample toward the reaction chamber when the rotary valve is in the first valve position and induces a flow of a reaction component from the reservoir toward the reaction chamber when the rotary valve is in the second valve position.