Capacitive Pulse Coupling for Nonconductive Sample Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric pulse generation systems for medical and biotechnological applications often require conductive containers, which are expensive and can contaminate biological samples, and directly coupled systems may not be suitable for all specimens.
Innovation Solution
A pulse generation system that uses capacitive coupling between the pulse generating circuitry and the sample, allowing for the use of nonconductive containers and enabling both capacitive and direct coupling options, with a processor-controlled system to manage pulse parameters and coupling methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a directly coupled pulse generation system is used, then the electrical stimulation is effective, but the system requires conductive containers which are expensive and can contaminate biological samples
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capacitive coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the pulse generation system and the biological sample. This allows electrical stimulation to be transmitted through the container walls without direct conductive contact, using the container's capacitance to couple the electrical signal while maintaining sample isolation and preventing contamination.
2Reliability
If conductive containers are used for direct coupling, then the pulse generation system works effectively, but the cost increases and sample contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive coupling system uses the container's inherent capacitance (whether conductive or non-conductive) as the coupling medium. This eliminates the requirement for expensive specialized conductive containers, as ordinary non-conductive containers can be used while still achieving effective electrical stimulation through capacitive coupling.
3Device complexity
If direct coupling is used, then the system is simple, but it is not suitable for all biological specimens due to contamination concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive coupling system provides a universal interface that can handle various types of biological specimens and container materials. The system adapts to different container types (conductive or non-conductive, different materials) and specimen types without requiring changes to the fundamental coupling mechanism, enhancing versatility while maintaining simplicity.
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 allows for efficient and contamination-free electrical stimulation of biological samples using nonconductive containers, enhancing the release of growth factors and providing flexibility in pulse generation and coupling methods, thus improving the effectiveness of applications like platelet activation and electroporation.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive element disposed between the pulse generating circuitry and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the present disclosure, exposure of a sample to one or more electric pulses via capacitive coupling is described. In certain embodiments, the sample may be a biological sample to be treated or modified using the pulsed electric fields. In certain embodiments, the electric pulses may be delivered to a load using capacitive coupling. In other embodiments, the electric pulses may be bipolar pulses.