AFM Sample Holder Using Hydrophilic Polymer Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling biological samples in atomic force microscopy (AFM) face challenges such as sample damage during transfer, contamination from glues, and the need for maintaining physiological conditions, which are not adequately addressed by existing sample holders and transfer protocols.
Innovation Solution
A sample holder with a mechanical clamping mechanism that uses a hydrophilic polymer to securely hold the sample without glue, allowing for easy transfer and positioning, and integrated perfusion tubes for maintaining buffer solution, along with a biopsy tool connection system for seamless sample transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If glue is used to attach the sample to the holder, then the sample is securely held, but the sample may be contaminated by the glue mixing with the buffer solution or tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the harmful element (glue) from the system by using a mechanical clamping mechanism instead. The sample holder includes a clamping structure that physically secures the sample without requiring adhesive, thereby eliminating contamination risk while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a buffer solution as an intermediary medium that serves dual purposes: it maintains sample viability and acts as a lubricant during sample transfer and positioning, reducing the need for mechanical manipulation that could cause damage or contamination.
2Ease of operation
If the sample is transferred in a provisional tube or box, then the sample can be transported, but the sample is freely floating and at risk of damage during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-attaching the sample to the holder at the biopsy tool before transfer. The sample is secured in a known good position and orientation, and this attachment is maintained throughout transfer and positioning, eliminating the need for manual manipulation that could damage the sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the biopsy tool includes both sampling capability and sample attachment capability, and the sample holder integrates mechanical clamping with buffer solution delivery, eliminating the need for separate transfer containers and reducing handling steps.
3Ease of operation
If the sample is partially dried to prevent glue contamination, then the sample can be handled, but the sample properties are significantly altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous buffering of the sample from extraction through transfer to positioning. The buffer solution is delivered continuously via the holder's integrated delivery system, maintaining sample hydration and physiological properties throughout the entire process without interruption or drying.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer solution acts as an intermediary that enables easy sample handling while preserving sample properties. It provides lubrication for smooth transfer and positioning, and simultaneously maintains sample hydration and viability, replacing the need for partial drying.
4Ease of operation
If manual positioning of the sample is performed, then the sample can be positioned for analysis, but the risk of damaging the soft and small sample increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning action by securing the sample in the correct orientation and position during the attachment process itself. The clamping mechanism is designed to hold the sample in the optimal position for AFM analysis, eliminating the need for subsequent manual repositioning that could damage the sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder's clamping mechanism automatically positions and secures the sample in the correct orientation through its mechanical design. The sample self-aligns within the clamping structure, which is configured to hold it in the optimal position for analysis, reducing the need for manual intervention.
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
This solution ensures the sample is securely held and maintained in a physiological state, reducing the risk of damage and contamination, enabling stable and accurate AFM measurements while allowing for further analysis without compromising the sample's composition.
Implementation Method 1
at least a circumferential wall of said opening is formed out of a material, in particular a hydrophilic polymer, which expands in contact with water or a buffer solution so that the inner diameter of said opening is reduced resulting in clamping of the sample
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to sample holders for holding a sample, particularly for an atomic force microscope. Such a sample holder comprising a sample dish (1) comprising a bottom (2), and an opening (3) arranged in said bottom (2) for receiving and holding the sample (15). Furthermore the present invention relates to a sample holder system and to a method for transferring an e.g. biological sample (15) from a biopsy tool (18) to a sample holder.