Capillary Array Cartridge Single Temperature Zone
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current capillary electrophoresis devices have a complex multi-structure design that requires multiple temperature control zones, increasing the number of components, complicating temperature control, and leading to user-friendly issues and component failures, along with the risk of introducing bubbles during handling and attachment of separation medium and buffer sources.
Innovation Solution
A capillary electrophoresis apparatus with a single housing unit that integrates a capillary array, a reservoir for the separation medium and anode buffer, and a sample injection mechanism, featuring a single temperature control zone and a flexible or hard-shell design that simplifies assembly and reduces component handling, with the polymer serving as both the separation medium and anode buffer, minimizing the need for separate buffer attachment and reducing the risk of artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interconnected structures are used to house capillary electrophoresis components, then each component can be separately controlled and maintained, but the number of temperature control zones increases, device complexity increases, and the likelihood of component failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capillary array, separation medium source, buffer sources, and temperature control mechanisms into a single integrated cartridge structure. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate temperature control zones and interconnected structures, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining component control functionality through the unified design.
2Temperature
If multiple interconnected structures are used, then each structure requires its own temperature regulating mechanisms, but this complicates the temperature control scheme and increases the number of components
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge integrates all temperature-sensitive components (capillary array, separation medium source, buffer sources) within a single temperature control zone, eliminating the need for multiple independent temperature control schemes. This unified approach maintains temperature control precision while significantly simplifying the overall temperature control architecture.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the separation medium source is detached and attached multiple times, then the array can be maintained and reused, but this introduces bubbles and other artifacts into the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is pre-filled with the separation medium during manufacturing, eliminating the need for users to perform the harmful action of detaching and reattaching the separation medium source. This preliminary preparation ensures that the capillary array can be maintained and reused without introducing bubbles or artifacts, as the sealed cartridge design prevents contamination during normal operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple structures are used, then more components are available for specific functions, but the sheer number of components increases the chances of component failure
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge merges multiple functional components (capillary array, separation medium source, buffer sources, temperature control mechanisms) into a single integrated unit. This reduces the total number of separate components and connection points in the system, thereby reducing the likelihood of component failure while maintaining all necessary functions within the unified cartridge structure.
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 design reduces the complexity of temperature control, minimizes component failures, and simplifies user handling, while maintaining high-quality results by ensuring consistent temperature control and reducing the introduction of bubbles and artifacts, resulting in a more efficient and reliable capillary electrophoresis process.
Implementation Method 1
Capillary array cartridge for capillary electrophoresis systems
Implementation Method 2
a temperature control zone configured to control a temperature of an interior of the housing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present disclosure relates, in some embodiments, to an apparatus for conducting a capillary electrophoresis assay. The apparatus can comprise a capillary array comprising an anode end and a cathode end, the capillary array provided in a housing further comprising a reservoir configured to house a separation medium and an anode buffer. The system can also comprise an injection mechanism configured to deliver sample to the cathode end of the capillary array, and a temperature control zone, wherein the temperature control zone is configured to control the temperature of the interior of the housing.