Biochemical Cartridge Segmented Electrodes Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biochemical analysis devices cannot reuse Electro Wetting On Dielectric (EWOD) components for transporting nucleic acid droplets due to destruction from high application voltages required for capillary arrays, limiting the reuse of EWOD for moving droplets.
Innovation Solution
A biochemical cartridge with a passage and multiple electrodes for transporting samples, including a second electrode for introducing samples into a capillary array, allowing for the use of EWOD for multiple cycles without damaging the electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high voltage (a few kilovolts) is applied to introduce nucleic acid into the capillary array, then the nucleic acid can be successfully taken in, but the EWOD electrodes and components are destroyed and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate electrode systems: EWOD electrodes for droplet transportation and a second electrode for sample introduction into the capillary. This segmentation allows each electrode type to operate within its optimal voltage range without interfering with the other, enabling EWOD electrode reuse while maintaining effective sample introduction
Solution Approach 2:
The passage structure with opening acts as an intermediary mechanism that allows the system to switch between two different voltage application modes: low voltage for EWOD-based droplet transport and high voltage for capillary sample introduction, thereby protecting the EWOD electrodes from destructive high voltage while maintaining both functions
2Ease of operation
If EWOD is used to transport nucleic acid droplets, then the droplets can be moved to the analysis position, but the system cannot be reused due to electrode destruction from subsequent high voltage application
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system is segmented into EWOD electrodes dedicated solely for droplet transportation and a separate second electrode for sample introduction. This functional segmentation preserves the EWOD electrodes from high voltage damage, maintaining both droplet transportation capability and device reuse capability
Solution Approach 2:
The passage structure with opening is designed to serve multiple functions: it allows droplet transport via EWOD, enables sample introduction via high voltage, and facilitates the transition between these modes. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain both ease of operation and productivity
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
Enables the biochemical cartridge and analysis device to repeatedly take in biological samples using a capillary array, extending the lifespan and usability of EWOD components.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of electrodes disposed on the passage along a direction in which a sample is transported, the plurality of electrodes being provided to transport a sample
Implementation Method 2
a second electrode provided to introduce a sample in the passage to the capillary
Data Source
AI summary
Since a few kilovolts of an application voltage is necessary to take in a biological sample, an EWOD electrode, for example, is destroyed, and the electrode becomes non-reusable for moving a droplet. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a biochemical cartridge usable for multiple times for taking in a biological sample by a capillary array, for example, and a biochemical analysis device using the biochemical cartridge. In order to solve the problem, the biochemical cartridge according to the present invention includes a passage through which a sample is transported, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the passage along a direction in which a sample is transported, the plurality of electrodes being provided to transport a sample, and an opening provided opposite to the plurality of electrodes disposed on a downstream side of the passage.