RU2827375C1 - Flow cell assemblies and corresponding reagent selection valves - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: chemistry.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to sequencing platforms. Apparatus for analysing one or more samples, comprising: a system comprising: a receiving compartment of a reagent cartridge; flow cell assembly; reagent cartridge configured to be housed within the receiving compartment of the reagent cartridge, wherein the reagent cartridge comprises a plurality of reagent reservoirs; and manifold assembly, wherein the manifold assembly comprises a reagent selection valve configured for fluid communication with the reagent reservoirs and for the reagent selective supply from the corresponding reagent reservoir to the flow cell assembly, wherein at least a surface of the manifold assembly associated with the reagent selection valve is connected to a portion of the flow cell assembly.

EFFECT: high efficiency of the analysis apparatus.

22 cl, 10 dwg

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/955,176, filed December 30, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Field of technology to which the invention relates

[0002] Sequencing platforms may include valves and pumps. Valves and pumps may be used to perform various fluid operations.

Disclosure of the essence of the invention

[0003] According to a first embodiment, the device comprises or includes a system comprising or including a receiving compartment for a reagent cartridge. The device comprises or includes a flow cell assembly. The device comprises or includes a reagent cartridge configured to receive inside the receiving portion of the reagent cartridge. The reagent cartridge comprises or includes a plurality of reagent reservoirs. The device comprises or includes a manifold assembly. The manifold assembly comprises or includes a reagent selection valve configured to be fluidly connected to the reagent reservoirs and to selectively supply a reagent from the corresponding reagent reservoir to the flow cell assembly. At least a surface of the manifold assembly associated with the reagent selection valve is connected to a part of the flow cell assembly.

[0004] According to a second embodiment, the device comprises or includes a flow cell assembly. The device comprises or includes a system comprising or including a manifold assembly and a flow cell receiving compartment configured to hold the flow cell assembly. The manifold assembly comprises or includes a reagent selection valve located directly adjacent to the flow cell assembly. The reagent selection valve comprises or includes a surface configured to be directly connected to a part of the flow cell assembly and adapted to selectively supply a reagent to the flow cell assembly. The reagent selection valve comprises at least one of a ceramic rotor and a ceramic stator. The reagent selection valve comprises or includes a valve drive assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve. The valve drive assembly comprises or includes a brushless motor.

[0005] According to a third embodiment, the device comprises or includes a system comprising or including a receiving compartment for a reagent cartridge. The device comprises or includes a flow cell assembly. The device comprises or includes a reagent cartridge configured to receive inside the receiving portion of the reagent cartridge. The reagent cartridge comprises or includes a plurality of reagent reservoirs. The device comprises or includes a manifold assembly connected directly adjacent to the flow cell assembly. The manifold assembly comprises or includes a reagent selection valve configured to communicate fluidly with the reagent reservoirs and to selectively supply a reagent from the corresponding reagent reservoir to the flow cell assembly.

[0006] According to a fourth embodiment, the device comprises or includes a flow cell assembly. The device comprises or includes a system comprising or including a manifold assembly and a flow cell receiving compartment configured to hold the flow cell assembly. The manifold assembly is located immediately adjacent to the flow cell assembly and comprises or includes a reagent selection valve configured to selectively supply a reagent to the flow cell assembly.

[0007] According to a fifth embodiment, the device comprises or includes a system comprising or including a manifold assembly and a flow cell receiving compartment. The manifold assembly is located directly adjacent to the flow cell assembly and comprises or includes a reagent selection valve configured to selectively supply a reagent.

[0008] Additionally, in accordance with the above-mentioned first, second, third, fourth and/or fifth embodiments, the device and/or method may further comprise or include any one or more of the following:

[0009] According to an embodiment, the surface of the reagent selection valve is directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the reactant selection valve comprises or includes at least one of a ceramic rotor or a ceramic stator.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the manifold assembly further comprises or includes a valve actuator assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the valve drive assembly comprises or includes a brushless motor.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the collector assembly is configured to be directly connected to the flow cell assembly.

[0014] According to another embodiment, the system comprises or includes a collector assembly.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the system comprises or includes a flow cell receiving compartment configured to hold the flow cell assembly.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the reagent selection valve of the collector assembly is located within the receiving compartment of the flow cell.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the surface of the reagent selection valve is configured to be directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the collector assembly is located within the receiving compartment of the flow cell.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the reagent selection valve comprises or includes a bypass orifice.

[0020] According to another embodiment, further comprises or includes a bypass line for a fluid and a buffer tank. The bypass line for a fluid fluidly connects the bypass opening and the buffer tank.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the manifold assembly comprises or includes a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly. The flow cell assembly comprises or includes a flow cell having a plurality of channels. The flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the respective channels.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the flow cell valve comprises or includes a plurality of outlet openings configured to communicate with respective channels of the flow cell.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve have opposite surfaces. In addition, it is provided to contain or include a valve drive assembly configured to be mated with the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve on opposite surfaces to control the position of the corresponding valves.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the flow cell valve comprises or includes a flow cell valve body having a flow cell valve stator and a flow cell valve rotor. The flow cell valve body has a common fluid line and a plurality of flow cell valve fluid lines. The common fluid line is connected to the reagent selection valve. The flow cell valve rotor cooperates with the flow cell valve stator to fluidly connect the common fluid line and one or more flow cell valve fluid lines.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the rotor of the flow cell valve comprises or includes a radial groove configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line and one or more fluid lines of the flow cell valve.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the flow cell valve rotor comprises or includes an arcuate groove connected to the distal end of the radial groove and configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line to more than one of the fluid lines of the flow cell valve.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the reagent selection valve comprises or includes a reagent valve body having a reagent valve stator and a reagent valve rotor. The reagent valve body has a common fluid line and a plurality of reagent fluid lines. The reagent fluid lines are configured to be fluidly connected to corresponding reagent reservoirs. The reagent valve rotor cooperates with the reagent valve stator to fluidly connect the common fluid line and the corresponding reagent fluid line.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the reagent valve rotor comprises or includes a radial groove configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line and a corresponding reagent fluid line.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the reagent valve body comprises or includes a flow cell interface, and the flow cell assembly is connected to the flow cell interface.

[0030] According to another embodiment, further comprising or including a valve drive assembly configured to mate and connect adjacent to the end of the reagent selection valve is provided.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the flow cell assembly comprises or includes a housing connected to a reagent selection valve.

[0032] According to another embodiment, additional content or inclusion of a vibration isolation unit is provided.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the vibration isolation assembly comprises or includes a housing rotatably connected to the reagent selection valve and the valve drive assembly.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the collector assembly is located within the receiving compartment of the flow cell.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the collector assembly is configured to be directly connected to the flow cell assembly.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the manifold assembly comprises or includes a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly. The flow cell assembly comprises or includes a flow cell having a plurality of channels. The flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the respective channels.

[0037] According to another embodiment, additional content or inclusion of a vibration isolation unit is provided.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the vibration isolation unit comprises or includes a magnet and is configured to magnetically levitate the collector unit.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the vibration isolation unit comprises or includes a shock absorber.

[0040] It should be understood that all combinations of the above concepts and additional concepts described in more detail below (provided that such concepts are not mutually contradictory) are considered to be part of the subject matter described herein and/or can be combined to achieve particular advantages in a particular aspect. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this description are considered to be part of the subject matter described herein.

Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Fig. 1A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system in accordance with the teachings of the present description.

[0042] Fig. 1B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the system shown in Fig. 1A.

[0043] Fig. 1C is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the system shown in Fig. 1A.

[0044] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the flow cell valve and reagent selection valve shown in Fig. 1A.

[0045] Fig. 3 schematically shows an embodiment of the reagent selection valve shown in Fig. 1A.

[0046] Fig. 4A is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the reagent selection valve, valve drive assembly, and flow cell assembly shown in Fig. 1A.

[0047] Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the reagent selection valve, valve actuator assembly, and flow cell assembly shown in Fig. 4A.

[0048] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the flow cell assembly shown in Fig. 1A, illustrating various configurations/positions of the reagent selection valve.

[0049] Fig. 6 schematically shows another embodiment of the valve drive assembly, the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly.

[0050] Fig. 7 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a vibration isolation unit comprising a housing and a shock absorber.

Implementation of the invention

[0051] Although the following text provides a detailed description of embodiments of methods, apparatuses and/or articles, it should be understood that the legal scope of the property right is defined by the text of the claims set forth at the end of this patent. Accordingly, the following detailed description should be construed as illustrative only and does not describe every possible embodiment, since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Many alternative embodiments may be realized using current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent. It is intended that such alternative embodiments remain within the scope of the claims.

[0052] Fig. 1A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system 100 in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The system 100 can be used to perform an analysis of one or more test samples. The sample can include one or more DNA clusters linearized to form single-stranded DNA (sstDNA). In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 comprises a reagent cartridge receiving compartment 102 configured to receive a reagent cartridge 104. A flow cell assembly 106 is located on the reagent cartridge 100. The system 100 comprises a flow cell receiving compartment 107.

[0053] The system 100 also includes a visualization system 132, a controller 133, a drive unit 134, and a waste tank 136. The drive unit 134 includes a pump drive unit 138 and a valve drive unit 140. The valve drive unit 140 may include a brushless direct current (DC) motor, a stepper motor, and/or a servo drive with a wave transmission. However, other methods of implementing the valve drive unit 140 may also be suitable. For example, a piezoelectric motor may be used.

[0054] The valve actuator assembly 140 may be configured to perform a threshold number of relatively high torque events (HTE). The relatively high torque may be associated with approximately 160 oz-in. However, other torque values may be associated with a high torque event. The threshold number of high torque events may be approximately 1000. However, a different number of high torque events may be achieved depending on the design characteristics, materials used, and/or other operating parameters.

[0055] The controller 133 is electrically connected and/or communicatively connected to the drive unit 134 and the visualization system 132 and is configured to affect the drive unit 134 and/or the visualization system 132 to perform various functions described herein. The waste reservoir 136 may be configured to be selectively installed in the waste reservoir receiving compartment 142 of the system 100.

[0056] The reagent cartridge 104 may contain one or more samples to be analyzed. The drive assembly 115 cooperates with the reagent cartridge 104 to provide one or more reagents (e.g., nucleotides A, T, G, C) that interact with the sample through the reagent cartridge 104 and/or through the flow cell assembly 106.

[0057] In one illustrated embodiment, a reversible terminator is attached to the reagent to allow the incorporation of one nucleotide into a single-stranded DNA per cycle. In some such embodiments, one or more nucleotides have a unique fluorescent label that emits a color when excited. The color (or lack thereof) is used to detect the corresponding nucleotide. In the illustrated embodiment, the imaging system 132 is configured to excite one or more identifiable labels (e.g., a fluorescent label) and then obtain image data for the identifiable labels. The labels can be excited by incident light and/or a laser, and the image data can include one or more colors emitted by the corresponding labels in response to excitation. The image data (e.g., detection data) can be analyzed by the system 100. The imaging system 132 can be a fluorescence spectrophotometer comprising an objective lens and/or a solid-state imaging device. The solid state imaging device may include a charge-coupled device (CCD) and/or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS).

[0058] After receiving the image data, the drive unit 134 interacts with the reagent cartridge 104 to deliver another reaction component (e.g., a reagent) through the reagent cartridge 104, which then enters the waste reservoir 142 and/or is otherwise released by the reagent cartridge 104. The reaction component performs a wash function, which chemically cleaves the fluorescent label and the reversible terminator from the single-stranded DNA. The wash function can also be performed using air. The single-stranded DNA is then ready for the next cycle.

[0059] The reagent cartridge 104 comprises a plurality of reagent reservoirs 108. The system 100 comprises a manifold assembly 110. The manifold assembly 110 may be located within and/or adjacent to the flow cell assembly 107. Alternatively, the manifold assembly 110 may be part of the flow cell assembly 106 and/or the reagent cartridge 104.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the manifold assembly 110 is connected directly adjacent to the flow cell assembly 106. A portion of the manifold assembly 110, such as a minivalve assembly, may be directly connected to the flow cell assembly 106 or may be separated from the flow cell assembly 106 using, for example, an intermediate component. An advantage is that locating a portion of the manifold assembly 110 directly adjacent to the flow cell assembly 106 may reduce reagent consumption, reduce "dead volume," such as within fluid lines, reduce carryover, reduce switching times, and/or obtain results at different times.

[0061] The manifold assembly 110 comprises a reagent selection valve 112. The reagent selection valve 112 is configured to be fluidly coupled to the reagent reservoirs 108. The reagent selection valve 112 is also configured to selectively supply a reagent from the corresponding reagent reservoir 108 to the flow cell assembly 106. In some embodiments, the reagent selection valve 112 may have a small footprint. For example, the reagent selection valve 112 may have dimensions of approximately 45 millimeters (mm) by 45 mm. Other dimensions of the reagent selection valve 112 may also be suitable. For example, the footprint of the reagent selection valve 112 may be less than 45 mm by 45 mm.

[0062] The reagent selection valve 112 may comprise a bypass opening 114. The system comprises a bypass line 116 for a fluid and a buffer tank 118. The bypass line 116 for a fluid fluid connects the bypass opening 114 and the buffer tank 118. The buffer tank 118 may be configured to temporarily store one or more reaction components during, for example, bypass manipulations of the system 100 shown in Fig. 1A. Although the buffer tank 118 is shown included in the system 100, in another embodiment, the buffer tank 118 may be located in another location. For example, the buffer tank 118 may be located in the manifold assembly 110 and/or in the reagent cartridge 104. Other locations for placing the buffer tank 118 may also be suitable.

[0063] The manifold assembly 110 also comprises a flow cell valve 120. The flow cell valve 120 may be connected between the reagent selection valve 112 and the flow cell assembly 106. The flow cell valve 120 may be directly connected to the reagent selection valve 112. In some embodiments, for example, if only one flow cell or one channel is used, the flow cell valve 120 may be absent, so that the reagent selection valve 112 is directly fluidly connected to the flow cell and/or channel.

[0064] The flow cell assembly 106 comprises a flow cell 121 comprising at least one channel 122, a flow cell inlet 124 and a flow cell outlet 126. In an embodiment where the flow cell comprises a plurality of channels 122, as shown in the drawings, the flow cell valve 120 is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the respective channels 122.

[0065] The flow cell valve 120 comprises a plurality of outlet openings 128. The outlet openings 128 are configured to connect to corresponding channels 122 of the flow cell 106. Fluid lines 130 are shown fluidly connecting the outlet openings 128 and the channels 122. The fluid lines 130 may be part of a fluid connection. The fluid connection may be flexible. The fluid connection may be multilayered.

[0066] The flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 may have opposing surfaces 144, 146. In some embodiments, the valve drive assembly 140 is configured to mate with the flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 on the opposing surfaces 144, 146 to control the position of the corresponding valves 120, 112. However, the valve drive assembly 140 may interact with the valves 120, 112 in different ways.

[0067] With respect to the drive assembly 134 in the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 134 comprises a pump drive assembly 138 and a valve drive assembly 140. The pump drive assembly 138 is configured to cooperate with one or more pumps 148 for pumping fluid through the reagent cartridge 104. One embodiment of the pump 148 may be a syringe pump, a peristaltic pump, a membrane pump, etc. Although the pump 148 may be located between the flow cell assembly 106 and the waste reservoir 142, in other embodiments the pump 148 may be located upstream of the flow cell assembly 106 or not used at all.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 comprises a sample loading manifold assembly 192 and a sample cartridge receiving compartment 194 configured to receive a sample cartridge 196. The sample loading manifold assembly 192 comprises one or more sample valves 198. The sample valves 198 may be referred to as sample loading valves.

[0069] The sample loading manifold assembly 192 and the pump 148 are configured to feed one or more test samples from the sample cartridge 195 to the flow cell assembly 106. In one embodiment, the sample loading manifold assembly 192 may be configured to independently load/direct a test sample into each channel 122 of the flow cell 121. The process of loading a test sample into the channels 122 may occur automatically using the system 100 shown in Fig. 1A.

[0070] With respect to the controller 133, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 133 comprises a user interface 152, a communication interface 154, one or more processors 156, and a memory 158 storing instructions executable by the one or more processors 156 to perform various functions, including the embodiment described. The user interface 152, the communication interface 154, and the memory 158 are electrically and/or communicatively coupled to the one or more processors 156.

[0071] In one embodiment, the user interface 152 is configured to receive input from a user and provide the user with information related to the operation of the system 100 and/or the analysis being performed. The user interface 152 may include a touch screen, a display, a keyboard, a speaker(s), a mouse, a trackball, and/or a voice recognition system. The touch screen and/or display may display a graphical user interface (GUI).

[0072] In one embodiment, the communication interface 154 is configured to provide communication between the system 100 and remote system(s) (e.g., computers) via a network(s). The network(s) may include the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a coaxial cable network, a wireless network, a wired network, a satellite network, a digital subscriber network (DSL), a cellular network, a Bluetooth connection, a near field communication (NFC) connection, and the like. Some of the messages transmitted to the remote system may be related to analysis results, imaging data, etc. generated or otherwise received by the system 100. Some of the messages transmitted to the system 100 may be related to a fluid analysis operation, patient registration, and/or protocol(s) to be performed by the system 100.

[0073] One or more processors 156 and/or system 100 may include one or more processor-based systems or microprocessor-based systems. In some embodiments, one or more processors 156 and/or system 100 include one or more of the following: a programmable processor, a programmable controller, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a reduced instruction set computer (RISC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a field programmable logic device (FPLD), a logic circuit, and/or another logic device that performs various functions, including the functions described herein.

[0074] The storage device 158 may include one or more of the following: a semiconductor storage device, a magnetically readable storage device, an optical storage device, a hard disk drive (HDD), an optical storage device, a solid state storage device, a solid state drive (SSD), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), random access memory (RAM), non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), a compact disc (CD), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, redundant array of independent disks (RAID), cache memory, and/or any other storage device or disk for storing data on which information is stored for any period of time (e.g., permanently, temporarily, for an extended period of time, for buffering, caching).

[0075] Fig. 1B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the system 100 shown in Fig. 1A. In the embodiment shown, the system 100 includes a receiving compartment 102 of a reagent cartridge. A flow cell assembly 106 is included. A reagent cartridge 104 is configured to receive a reagent cartridge inside the receiving compartment 102. A reagent cartridge 108 includes a plurality of reservoirs 108 for reagents.

[0076] The manifold assembly 110 is included. The manifold assembly 110 comprises a reagent selection valve 112 and is configured to be fluidly connected to the reagent reservoirs 108 and to selectively supply a reagent from the corresponding reagent reservoir 108 to the flow cell assembly 106. At least a surface 199 of the manifold assembly 110 associated with the reagent selection valve 112 is connected to a portion 200 of the flow cell assembly 106.

[0077] Fig. 1C is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the system 100 shown in Fig. 1A. The illustrated embodiment includes a flow cell assembly. The system 100 includes a manifold assembly 110 and a flow cell receiving compartment 107 configured to receive a flow cell assembly 106. The manifold assembly includes a reagent selection valve 112 located immediately adjacent to the flow cell assembly 106. The reagent selection valve 112 includes a surface 119 configured to directly connect to a portion 200 of the flow cell assembly 106 and is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the flow cell assembly 106. The reagent selection valve 112 includes at least one of a ceramic rotor or a ceramic stator (see, for example, Fig. 3). The valve drive unit 140 is included in the composition. The valve drive unit 140 is operatively connected to the reagent selection valve 112. The valve drive unit 140 comprises a brushless motor.

[0078] Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 shown in Fig. 1A. The combination of the flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 may be referred to as a dual rotary valve. The flow cell valve 120 and/or the reagent selection valve 112 may be configured to perform a threshold number of operational cycles. The operational cycles may be associated with a fluid connection of the flow cell valve 120 and/or the reagent selection valve 112 to the flow cell assembly 106 and/or the reagent cartridge 104. The threshold number of operational cycles may include approximately greater than 2000 installation events. The number of operational cycles may include approximately 4 million port-to-port movements. Other threshold values for different operating cycles may be achieved, for example based on design requirements and/or the materials used.

[0079] The flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 may be controlled (e.g., actuated) electronically and/or manually. As a result of such control of the flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112, user error may be reduced and the system 100 may be relatively (or more) user-friendly.

[0080] The flow cell valve 120 and the reagent selection valve 112 are connected at the interface 159. In the illustrated embodiment, the flow cell valve 120 has a flow cell valve body 160 that has a flow cell valve stator 162. The flow cell stator 162 may comprise a ceramic and/or polymer hybrid material. Other materials for the flow cell valve 120 may also be suitable. The size of the flow cell stator 162 may correspond to a small area, such as 25 millimeters (mm) by 25 mm. However, other sizes of the flow cell stator 162 may also be suitable.

[0081] The flow cell valve 120 also comprises a flow cell valve rotor 164. The flow cell valve rotor 164 may comprise a ceramic and/or polymer hybrid material. The flow cell valve body 160 has a common fluid line 166 and a plurality of flow cell fluid lines 168. The flow cell fluid lines 168 are configured to connect to the flow cell assembly 106. In some embodiments, the length of the common fluid line 166 is approximately 65 millimeters, and in other embodiments, the length of the common fluid line 166 is approximately 259 mm. Thus, the common fluid line 166 may have a length from about 65 mm to about 259 mm. However, the common fluid line 166 may have any other length. The flow cell fluid lines 168 may be used to individually address the channels 122. The common fluid line 166 is connected to the reagent selection valve 112.

[0082] The rotor 162 of the flow cell valve is configured to mate with the stator 162 of the flow cell valve to fluidly connect the common fluid line 166 and one or more fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve. For example, the stator 162 of the flow cell valve can be rotated by the valve actuator assembly 140 to provide a fluid connection between the common fluid line 166 and one of the fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve. Although four fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve are shown, any number of fluid lines of the flow cell valve may be provided instead.

[0083] The rotor 164 of the flow cell valve comprises a radial groove 169 configured to fluidly connect (e.g. address) the common fluid line 166 and one or more fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve. In an embodiment, the rotor 164 of the flow cell valve can rotate from approximately 0° to approximately 90°. However, the rotor 164 of the flow cell valve can rotate more or less depending on the position of the corresponding openings 171 of the fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve that open into the stator 162 of the flow cell.

[0084] The radial groove 169 may have beveled sides. The beveled sides may be configured to reduce carryover. The rotor 164 of the flow cell valve also has an arcuate groove 170. The arcuate groove 170 is connected to the distal end 172 of the radial groove 169 and is configured to provide a fluid connection of the common fluid line 166 with more than one of the fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve. For example, the rotor 164 of the flow cell valve may be positioned such that the arcuate groove 170 covers two or more openings 171 of the fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve, thereby providing fluid communication with more than two fluid lines 168 of the flow cell valve.

[0085] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the reagent selection valve 112 shown in Fig. 1A. The reagent selection valve 112 comprises a reagent selection valve body 175 having a reagent selection valve stator 176. The reagent selection valve 112 also comprises a reagent valve rotor 178. The reagent selection valve stator 176 and/or the reagent selection valve rotor 178 may comprise a ceramic and/or a polymer hybrid material. Other materials for the reagent selection valve 112 may also be suitable. The reagent selection valve body 175 comprises a common fluid line 180, a plurality of reagent fluid lines 182, and a flow cell fluid line 108. The reagent fluid lines 182 are configured to be in fluid communication with the respective reagent reservoirs 108. The common fluid line 180 is fluidly connected to the reagent fluid line 182 and the flow cell fluid line 168.

[0086] The rotor 178 of the reagent valve is configured to mate with the stator 176 of the reagent valve for fluid communication with the common fluid line 180 and the corresponding reagent fluid line 182. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotor 178 of the reagent valve comprises a radial groove 169 configured to fluidly communicate with the common fluid line 180 and the corresponding reagent fluid line 182. The common fluid line 180 may be fluidly connected to the fluid line 168 of the flow cell and/or the bypass opening 114.

[0087] The reagent fluid lines 182 have outlet openings 184 on the stator 176 of the reagent valve. The reagent fluid lines 182 also contain a plurality of inlet openings 185. The inlet openings 185 are defined by sides 186 of the body 175 of the reagent selection valve. Although the inlet openings 185 are formed by three sides 186, the inlet openings 185 may be formed in a different manner. For example, the inlet openings 185 may be formed by two sides 186. Although the reagent valve rotor 178 is not shown including an arcuate groove, such as the arcuate groove 170 of the flow cell valve rotor 164, the reagent valve rotor 178 may alternatively comprise an arcuate groove.

[0088] Fig. 4A is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the reagent selection valve 112, the valve actuator assembly 140, and the flow cell assembly 106 shown in Fig. 1A. In the embodiment shown, the reagent selection valve body 175 has a flow cell interface 188. The flow cell interface 188 may be a side 186 of the reagent selection valve body 175 where the inlet ports 185 are not formed, but where a fluid line 168 of the flow cell may be formed that provides fluid communication with the flow cell assembly 106. The receiving compartment 106 of the flow cell is connected to the flow cell interface 188. Thus, the body 201 of the flow cell assembly 106 is connected to the reagent selection valve 112. In other words, the surface of the reagent selection valve 112 is directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly 106. In an alternative embodiment, the housing 201 of the flow cell assembly 106 can be connected to the valve 120 of the flow cell. In some embodiments, an intermediate component, such as a flexible manifold or other component for transporting fluid, can be provided between the flow cell interface 188 of the reagent selection valve housing 175 and the flow cell assembly 106 and/or between the valve 120 of the flow cell and the flow cell assembly 106. Other designs may also be suitable.

[0089] The valve drive assembly 140 is configured to mate with the end 189 of the reagent selection valve 112 and is connected thereto adjacent to the said end. For example, the valve drive assembly 140 can be configured to rotate the rotor 178 of the reagent valve.

[0090] Although the flow cell valve 120 is not shown in Fig. 4A, in other embodiments the flow cell valve 120 may be present. For example, the flow cell valve 120 may be provided when the flow cell 121 comprises a plurality of channels 122 and/or when the flow cell assembly 106 does not comprise a manifold connecting the plurality of channels 122 and the reagent selection valve 112.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, a gearbox 190 is also provided. The gearbox 190 and/or the valve drive assembly 140 can be configured to apply a relatively high torque value to the reagent selection valve 112 and/or the flow cell valve 120. The relatively high torque value can be approximately 140 ounces per inch. Other torque values can be achieved using the gearbox 190 and/or the valve drive assembly 140. The gearbox 190 can direct the rotation of the rotor 178 of the reagent valve. The gearbox 190 can be a multi-stage planetary gear or a spur gear. Other types of gearboxes may also be suitable. The gearbox 190 is connected between the valve drive assembly 140 and the reagent selection valve 112. The gearbox 190 may be configured to reduce the likelihood that vibrations generated by the valve drive assembly 140, the reagent reservoir valve 112 and/or the flow cell valve 120 will affect the flow cell assembly 106. The gearbox 190 may comprise a stressed wave transmission. The gearbox 190 may comprise a harmonic transmission. Other types of gearboxes may also be acceptable. The gearbox 190 may be configured to provide a reduction gear and a high torque.

[0092] Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the reagent selection valve 112, the valve drive assembly 140, and the flow cell assembly 106 shown in Fig. 4A. A gearbox 190 is also included. In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axis 202 of the valve drive assembly 140 is offset from the longitudinal axis 204 of the reagent selection valve 112. Thus, the longitudinal axis 202 of the valve drive assembly 140 and the longitudinal axis 204 of the reagent selection valve 112 are asymmetrical. In other embodiments, the gearbox 190 and the reagent selection valve 112 may be located on the same line with the longitudinal axis 202 of the valve drive assembly 140.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the gearbox 190 may be a multi-stage planetary gear or a spur gear. The gearbox 190 may be configured to allow the axes 202, 204 to be offset relative to each other. The offset axes 202, 204 may allow the flow cell cartridge assembly 106 to be connected to the flow cell interface 188 without the valve actuator assembly 140 interfering with the connection. In particular, when a larger valve actuator assembly 140 is used, the offset of the axes 202, 204 may allow the flow cell cartridge assembly 106 to be connected to the flow cell interface 188. The flow cell interface 188 may be considered the uppermost level of the reagent selection valve 112, based on the orientation shown in FIG. 4. However, the flow cell interface 188 may be located elsewhere on the reagent selection valve 112 or on any of the other components described.

[0094] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the flow cell assembly 106 shown in Fig. 1A illustrating various configurations/positions of the reagent selection valve 112. For example, the reagent selection valve 112 may be positioned above the flow cell assembly 106, below the flow cell assembly 106, directly connected to the flow cell assembly 106, or positioned in line with the flow cell assembly 106. Alternative positions of the reagent selection valve 112 are shown by dashed lines. Other relative positions between the flow cell assembly 106 and the reagent selection valve 112 may also be suitable.

[0095] Fig. 6 schematically shows another embodiment of the valve drive assembly 140, the reagent selection valve 112 and the flow cell assembly 106. The illustrated embodiment also includes a vibration isolation assembly 206 and a gearbox 190. The vibration isolation assembly 206 can be configured to isolate vibration displacement from the flow cell assembly 106 that may occur, for example, when the reagent selection valve 112 is actuated.

[0096] The vibration isolation assembly 206 may comprise a housing 207 to which the valve drive assembly 140, the gearbox 190, and the reagent selection valve 112 are rotatably connected. The vibration isolation assembly 206 may comprise one or more magnets 208 that magnetically isolate and/or lift the valve drive assembly 140, the gearbox 190, and the reagent selection valve 112 in a magnetic field so as to prevent the vibration generated by the valve drive assembly 140 and/or the reagent selection valve 112 from affecting the flow cell cartridge assembly 106. The vibration isolation assembly 206 may be configured in different ways. For example, the vibration isolation assembly 206 may have a shock absorber 210. The shock absorber 210 may comprise a spring, a gel isolator, a gasket, etc.

[0097] The valve drive assembly 140 may comprise a stepper motor. In an alternative embodiment, the valve drive assembly 140 may comprise a brushless DC motor. Brushless DC motors may generate less vibration during operation. Brushless DC motors may also satisfy a torque threshold.

[0098] Fig. 7 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a vibration isolation unit 206 comprising a housing 207 and a shock absorber 210. The shock absorber 210 comprises a plurality of gel isolators 211. Additionally or alternatively, other types of shock absorbers may be provided.

[0099] In the embodiment shown, the housing 207 comprises a base 212 and a support 214. The support 214 is connected to the base 212 via shock absorbers 210. The support 214 comprises a first support portion 216 and a second support portion 218. The first support portion 216 carries the valve drive assembly 140. The second support portion 218 forms a through hole 220 and is located between the valve drive assembly 140 and the reagent selection valve 112. The reducer 190 passes through the through hole 220 of the second support portion 218.

[00100] The gel insulators 211 may be located between the base 212 and the support 214. In particular, the gel insulators 211 may be located between the base 212 and the first support portion 216.

[00101] The gel insulators 211 may also be located between the second support portion 218 and the valve actuator assembly 140. Alternatively, a rigid connection or another type of connection may be provided between the valve actuator assembly 140 and the second support portion 218. In such an embodiment, four gel insulators 211 may be provided between the first support portion 216 and the base 212, and no gel insulators 211 may be provided between the second support portion 218 and the valve actuator assembly 140. Other designs may also be acceptable. Regardless of the number and/or arrangement of the gel isolators 211 or, more generally, the shock absorber 210, the gel isolators 211 may be configured to reduce the likelihood that operation of the valve actuator assembly 140 and/or the reagent selection valve 112 will affect the flow cell assembly 106.

[00102] A device comprising: a system comprising: a receiving compartment of a reagent cartridge; a flow cell assembly; a reagent cartridge configured to be placed within the receiving compartment of the reagent cartridge, wherein the reagent cartridge comprises a plurality of reagent reservoirs; and a manifold assembly, wherein the manifold assembly comprises a reagent selection valve configured to be fluidly connected to the reagent reservoirs and for selectively supplying a reagent from a corresponding reagent reservoir to the flow cell assembly, wherein at least a surface of the manifold assembly associated with the reagent selection valve is connected to a portion of the flow cell assembly.

[00103] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the surface of the reagent selection valve is directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly.

[00104] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the reactant selection valve comprises at least one of a ceramic rotor or a ceramic stator.

[00105] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the manifold assembly further comprises a valve actuator assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve.

[00106] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the valve drive assembly comprises a brushless motor.

[00107] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the manifold assembly comprises a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly, wherein the flow cell assembly comprises a flow cell having a plurality of channels, wherein the flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the respective channels.

[00108] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the flow cell valve comprises a plurality of outlet openings intended to connect to respective channels of the flow cell.

[00109] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, in which the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve have opposing surfaces, and further comprises a valve drive assembly configured to mate with the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve on the opposing surfaces to control the position of the respective valves.

[00110] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the flow cell valve comprises a flow cell valve body having a flow cell valve stator and a flow cell valve rotor, wherein the flow cell valve body has a common fluid line and a plurality of flow cell valve fluid lines, wherein the common fluid line is connected to the reagent selection valve, and wherein the flow cell valve rotor mates with the flow cell valve stator for fluidly connecting the common fluid line and the one or more flow cell valve fluid lines.

[00111] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the flow cell valve rotor comprises a radial groove configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line and one or more fluid lines of the flow cell valve.

[00112] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the flow cell valve rotor comprises an arcuate groove connected to the distal end of the radial groove and configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line to more than one of the fluid lines of the flow cell valve.

[00113] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the reagent valve body comprises a flow cell interface, and the flow cell assembly is connected to the flow cell interface.

[00114] The device of any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, further comprising a valve actuator assembly configured to mate and connect adjacent to the end of the reagent selection valve.

[00115] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, further comprising a vibration isolation unit.

[00116] An apparatus according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the vibration isolation assembly comprises a housing rotatably connected to the reagent selection valve and the valve drive assembly.

[00117] A device comprising: a flow cell assembly; and a system comprising a manifold assembly and a flow cell receiving compartment configured to receive the flow cell assembly, wherein the manifold assembly comprises: a reagent selection valve located immediately adjacent to the flow cell assembly, wherein the reagent selection valve has a surface configured to be directly connected to a portion of the flow cell assembly and configured to selectively supply a reagent to the flow cell assembly, wherein the reagent selection valve comprises at least one of a ceramic rotor or a ceramic stator; and a valve drive assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve, wherein the valve drive assembly comprises a brushless motor.

[00118] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, wherein the reagent selection valve of the collector assembly is located within the receiving compartment of the flow cell.

[00119] A device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, in which the surface of the reagent selection valve is configured to be directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly.

[00120] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, in which the manifold assembly further comprises a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly, wherein the flow cell assembly comprises a flow cell having a plurality of channels, wherein the flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the respective channels.

[00121] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, further comprising a vibration isolation unit.

[00122] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, in which the vibration isolation assembly comprises or includes a magnet and is configured to magnetically levitate the collector assembly.

[00123] The device according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments and/or any one or more of the embodiments described below, in which the vibration isolation unit comprises a shock absorber.

[00124] The above description is provided to enable one skilled in the art to practice the various configurations described herein. Although the inventive technology has been described in particular with reference to various figures and configurations, it should be understood that this is provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the inventive technology.

[00125] As used herein, an element or step listed in the singular and preceded by words in the singular should be understood as not excluding a plurality of the listed elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Moreover, references to "one embodiment" should not be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the listed elements. Moreover, unless explicitly stated otherwise, embodiments "comprising," "including," or "having" an element or plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional elements, whether or not they have that property. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," and the like are used interchangeably herein.

[00126] The terms "substantially", "approximately" and "about" as used in this description are used to describe and take into account small deviations, for example, due to processing variability. For example, they may refer to less than or equal to ±5%, for example, less than or equal to ±2%, for example, less than or equal to ±1%, for example, less than or equal to ±0.5%, for example, less than or equal to ±0.2%, for example, less than or equal to ±0.1%, for example, less than or equal to ±0.05%.

[00127] There are many other ways to implement the inventive technology. The various functions and elements described herein can be separated in a manner different from those shown without departing from the scope of the inventive technology. Various modifications to these embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments. Thus, a person skilled in the art can make many changes and modifications to the inventive technology without departing from the scope of the inventive technology. For example, a different number of these modules or blocks may be used, a different type or types of these modules or blocks may be used, a given module or block may be added, or a given module or block may be omitted.

[00128] Underlined and/or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the inventive technology, and are not mentioned in connection with the interpretation of the description of the inventive technology. All structural and functional equivalents of elements of the various embodiments described in this specification that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are considered to be covered by the inventive technology. Moreover, nothing described herein is intended for the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly indicated in the above description.

[00129] It should be understood that all combinations of the above concepts and additional concepts described in more detail below (provided that such concepts are not mutually contradictory) are considered to be part of the subject matter described herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this description are considered to be part of the subject matter described herein.

Claims (30)

1. A device for performing analysis of one or more samples, comprising: a system comprising: a receiving compartment for a reagent cartridge; flow cell assembly; a reagent cartridge configured to be placed within a receiving compartment of the reagent cartridge, wherein the reagent cartridge comprises a plurality of reagent reservoirs; and a manifold assembly, wherein the manifold assembly comprises a reagent selection valve configured to be fluidly connected to the reagent reservoirs and to selectively supply a reagent from the corresponding reagent reservoir to the flow cell assembly, wherein at least a surface of the manifold assembly associated with the reagent selection valve is connected to a portion of the flow cell assembly. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the reagent selection valve is directly mechanically connected to the flow cell assembly. 3. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reagent selection valve comprises at least one of a ceramic rotor or a ceramic stator. 4. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the manifold assembly further comprises a valve drive assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve. 5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the valve drive unit comprises a brushless motor. 6. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the manifold assembly comprises a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly, wherein the flow cell assembly comprises a flow cell having a plurality of channels, wherein the flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply a reagent to the corresponding channels. 7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the flow cell valve comprises a plurality of outlet openings intended for connection with corresponding channels of the flow cell. 8. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 6, 7, in which the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve have opposite surfaces, and further comprises a valve drive unit configured to be coupled with the flow cell valve and the reagent selection valve on opposite surfaces to control the position of the corresponding valves. 9. The device according to any one of claims 6-8, in which the flow cell valve comprises a flow cell valve body having a flow cell valve stator and a flow cell valve rotor, wherein the flow cell valve body has a common fluid line and a plurality of flow cell valve fluid lines, wherein the common fluid line is connected to the reagent selection valve, and wherein the flow cell valve rotor mates with the flow cell valve stator for fluidly connecting the common fluid line and one or more flow cell valve fluid lines. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein the flow cell valve rotor comprises a radial groove configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line and one or more fluid lines of the flow cell valve. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the flow cell valve rotor comprises an arcuate groove connected to the distal end of the radial groove and configured to fluidly connect a common fluid line to more than one of the fluid lines of the flow cell valve. 12. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reagent valve body comprises a flow cell interface, and the flow cell assembly is connected to the flow cell interface. 13. The device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a valve drive unit configured to mate and connect adjacent to the end of the reagent selection valve. 14. The device according to item 13, additionally containing a vibration isolation unit. 15. The device according to item 14, wherein the vibration isolation unit comprises a housing rotatably connected to the reagent selection valve and the valve drive unit. 16. A device for performing analysis of one or more samples, comprising: flow cell assembly; and a system comprising a collector assembly and a flow cell receiving compartment configured to accommodate the flow cell assembly, wherein the collector assembly comprises: a reagent selection valve located immediately adjacent to the flow cell assembly, wherein the reagent selection valve has a surface configured to be directly connected to a portion of the flow cell assembly and configured to selectively supply a reagent to the flow cell assembly, wherein the reagent selection valve comprises at least one of a ceramic rotor and a ceramic stator; and a valve drive assembly operatively connected to the reagent selection valve, wherein the valve drive assembly comprises a brushless motor. 17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the reagent selection valve of the collector unit is located inside the receiving compartment of the flow cell. 18. A device according to any one of paragraphs 16, 17, in which the surface of the reagent selection valve is designed with the possibility of direct mechanical connection to the flow cell assembly. 19. The device according to any one of claims 16-18, in which the manifold assembly further comprises a flow cell valve connected between the reagent selection valve and the flow cell assembly, wherein the flow cell assembly comprises a flow cell having a plurality of channels, wherein the flow cell valve is configured to selectively supply the reagent to the corresponding channels. 20. A device according to any one of paragraphs 16-19, additionally containing a vibration isolation unit. 21. The device according to claim 20, wherein the vibration isolation unit contains a magnet and is designed with the possibility of magnetic levitation of the collector unit. 22. The device according to item 20, wherein the vibration isolation unit comprises a shock absorber.