3D Interleaved Electrodes for High-Throughput Particle Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dielectrophoretic devices for particle separation are limited by their two-dimensional electrode structures, which restrict the penetration depth of the electric field, allowing only small sample volumes to be analyzed effectively, and are costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional laminate device with interleaved conductive and non-conductive layers and drilled channels, allowing for increased sample volume processing and easy fabrication, enabling high-throughput separation of particulate matter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a two-dimensional electrode structure is used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the penetration depth of the electric field is limited and only small sample volumes can be analyzed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional planar electrodes to a three-dimensional interdigitated electrode structure. Multiple electrode fingers extend in the third dimension (depth) within the sample volume, allowing the electric field to penetrate and act throughout the entire sample volume rather than being limited to a thin layer, thus resolving the contradiction between sample volume and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode structure consists of multiple electrode fingers nested within each other in three-dimensional space. The interdigitated arrangement allows electrode elements to be positioned within the volume occupied by other electrode elements, maximizing the use of available space to achieve deep field penetration without proportionally increasing external device dimensions
2Productivity
If conventional two-dimensional electrode structures are used, then production costs are lower, but separation throughput is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system is segmented into multiple independent electrode fingers that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This modular approach allows for mass production of individual electrode components using inexpensive techniques, which are then stacked to create the high-throughput three-dimensional structure, resolving the contradiction between throughput and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The interdigitated electrode structure creates a porous-like three-dimensional network within the sample volume. This architecture provides multiple parallel pathways for particle transport and separation simultaneously occurring throughout the volume, dramatically increasing throughput while maintaining a structure that can be fabricated using low-cost additive manufacturing or lamination techniques
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
The device achieves high-throughput separation with increased effective volume, allowing for the analysis of larger sample volumes and reduced production costs, making it suitable for disposable applications and high parallel separation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a well known technique for separation based on the manipulation of particles in non-uniform electric fields
Implementation Method 2
If a dielectric particle is suspended in an electric field, it will polarize and there is an induced dipole
Data Source
AI summary
A device for dielectrophoretic manipulation of suspended particulate matter comprises a plurality of interleaved layers of electrically conductive and non-conductive material wherein at least one channel is defined through a plurality of the interleaved layers of electrically conductive material.