Magnetic Biosensor Viscosity Correction for Particle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic biosensors face challenges in achieving sufficient accuracy in particle detection due to viscosity variations in samples, which affect measurement signals and can lead to slower binding processes and reduced sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device and method that incorporates a viscosity measurement unit to correct detection signals based on measured viscosity, using magnetophoresis to determine the velocity of magnetic labels and calculate viscosity, thereby minimizing the influence of sample viscosity on measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic biosensors are used for particle detection, then detection capability is provided, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to viscosity variations in samples
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by measuring the viscosity of the sample and using this information to correct the detection signal. The viscosity measurement unit continuously monitors sample viscosity, and the correction unit adjusts the detection signal based on the measured viscosity value, creating a closed-loop system that compensates for viscosity-induced measurement errors and maintains accurate particle detection across varying viscosity conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from raw detection signal to viscosity-corrected detection signal. By introducing viscosity as a correction parameter, the system transforms the detection process to account for viscosity variations. The correction unit applies a correction function that modifies the detection signal based on the measured viscosity, effectively adapting the measurement to different sample conditions.
2Measurement precision
If viscosity correction is implemented, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using the same magnetic field generator and magnetic particles for both viscosity measurement and particle detection. The magnetic field generator serves dual purposes: it generates fields for detecting magnetic particles and simultaneously enables viscosity measurement through magnetophoresis. This universal approach allows the system to perform multiple functions with a single integrated device, reducing overall complexity despite the added correction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-characterization by automatically measuring the viscosity of each sample and using this information to self-correct the detection signals. The device serves itself by incorporating the viscosity measurement and correction functions within the same system, eliminating the need for external viscosity measurement equipment or manual sample preparation steps. This self-service approach simplifies the overall measurement process despite the enhanced functionality.
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 solution significantly improves measurement accuracy by accounting for viscosity variations, allowing for more sensitive and faster detection of particles, even in raw samples with varying viscosities, and is suitable for both point-of-care and high-throughput applications.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic biosensors may use the Giant Magnetoresistance Effect (GMR) for detecting biological molecules being magnetic/magnetisable or being labeled with magnetic/magnetisable beads.
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field generator for generating an AC magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
using magnetophoresis to determine the velocity of magnetic labels and calculate viscosity
Implementation Method 4
a viscosity measurement unit adapted for measuring the viscosity of the sample, and a correction unit adapted for correcting the detection signal based on the measured viscosity
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device for sensing particles of a sample, the sensor device including a sensing unit adapted for sensing a detection signal indicative of the presence of the particles, a viscosity measurement unit adapted for measuring the viscosity of the sample, and a correction unit adapted for correcting the detection signal based on the measured viscosity.