Analyte Capture Device Using Dielectric-Layered Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods and devices for isolating analytes from complex samples, such as biomolecules, have not kept pace with advanced analytical techniques, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in capturing and analyzing these samples.
Innovation Solution
The use of electrodes layered with dielectric materials to generate electrokinetic forces, including dielectrophoretic fields, for the rapid separation and isolation of particles and molecules from fluid compositions, utilizing both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electrokinetic effects to facilitate the separation of different components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods are used for isolating analytes from complex samples, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the efficiency of analyte capture is low and large amounts of sample are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical separation methods with electrokinetic forces generated by electrodes. The electrodes apply electric fields that exert forces on particles based on their electrical properties, enabling separation and concentration of analytes without complex mechanical systems. This substitution achieves high efficiency analyte capture while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in electrical field parameters (strength, direction, frequency) to control the separation process. By adjusting voltage, current, and field distribution, the system can optimize analyte capture efficiency for different sample types and target analytes, achieving high productivity without requiring complex device reconfiguration.
2Productivity
If conventional isolation methods are used, then the device structure can be simple, but the yield of isolated analyte is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical separation with electrokinetic forces that directly act on analyte particles. The electric fields generated by electrodes create forces proportional to the particles' electrical properties, enabling efficient concentration and isolation of analytes from complex samples. This results in high yield with reduced sample requirements compared to conventional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electric field as an intermediary mechanism between the sample and the separation process. The electric field acts as a mediator that selectively interacts with analyte particles based on their electrical characteristics, enabling efficient isolation without requiring direct mechanical manipulation or large sample volumes.
3Productivity
If electrodes are used to generate electrokinetic forces, then the efficiency of analyte capture is enhanced, but adverse electrochemical effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses adverse electrochemical effects by using alternating current (AC) electrokinetic forces instead of direct current (DC). The AC field rapidly reverses direction, preventing sustained electrochemical reactions while maintaining the beneficial separational forces. This converts the potential harm of electrochemical effects into a benefit by using oscillating fields that avoid permanent chemical changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic alternating current to generate electrokinetic forces. The periodic reversal of the electric field direction prevents accumulation of harmful electrochemical products while maintaining effective analyte separation. The periodic action allows the system to achieve high capture efficiency without the adverse effects associated with continuous DC application.
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 approach enhances the efficiency of analyte capture, reduces the amount of sample required, increases yield, and optimizes the process for downstream applications like detection and analysis, while minimizing adverse electrochemical effects.
Implementation Method 1
The use of electrodes layered with dielectric materials to generate electrokinetic forces, including dielectrophoretic fields, for the rapid separation and isolation of particles and molecules from fluid compositions
Implementation Method 2
utilizing both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electrokinetic effects to facilitate the separation of different components
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure describes methods, devices and systems comprising materials comprising dielectrics. In various aspects, electrodes layered or imbedded with these dielectrics provide enhanced properties for a wide range of applications, such as the enhanced separation of analytes, such as biological molecules or particles (nucleic acids, viruses) with an electrokinetic field.