Capillary Dielectric Spectroscopy Sensor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Dielectric spectroscopy systems are often large and expensive, making them cost-prohibitive for certain applications, and there is a need for a more intuitive and user-friendly design.
Innovation Solution
A compact dielectric spectroscopy sensing apparatus with a test volume that allows fluid entry via capillary action, featuring a first and second sensing electrode and a floating electrode, and a capillary inlet design that eliminates the need for a pipette or dropper for fluid loading, with a locking mechanism to secure the cap in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional dielectric spectroscopy system is used, then measurement capability is provided, but the system becomes large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the dielectric spectroscopy system into a compact sensing apparatus that can be integrated into smaller form factors. The sensing electrodes and fluid chamber are segmented into a miniaturized structure that maintains measurement capability while reducing overall system size and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified version of the traditional dielectric spectroscopy system that captures the essential measurement function using smaller, more affordable components. The sensing electrodes and fluid handling mechanism are replicated in a scaled-down configuration that provides equivalent measurement capability at lower cost.
2Quantity of substance
If manual fluid loading with pipette or dropper is used, then fluid can be loaded into the test volume, but sample preparation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a capillary action-based fluid loading mechanism that automatically draws fluid into the test volume without requiring manual pipetting or dropping. The capillary channels and fluid inlet design enable the system to self-load fluid samples, eliminating the need for complex manual sample preparation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical fluid handling (pipettes and droppers) with a passive capillary-driven fluid loading system. The fluid is drawn into the test volume through capillary action in the channels, substituting manual mechanical operations with a self-contained physical mechanism that simplifies user interaction.
3Ease of operation
If a capillary action-based fluid inlet is used, then sample preparation is simplified, but device structure becomes more specific
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes capillary channels with specific dimensional characteristics that enable passive fluid drawing through capillary action. The channel geometry and surface properties are designed to create appropriate capillary forces, using principles similar to porous materials to achieve automatic fluid loading without complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs capillary hydraulic principles to drive fluid flow into the test volume. The capillary channels create pressure differentials through surface tension effects, enabling fluid to be drawn into the chamber without external pumping or complex mechanical actuation, thus simplifying the overall device 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
The apparatus provides a cost-effective, user-friendly solution for dielectric spectroscopy that reduces sample preparation complexity and enhances operational efficiency by allowing direct fluid loading and secure RF signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a test volume between a first surface and an opposing second surface spaced from the first surface a distance that allows a fluid to enter the test volume from a fluid inlet, which is communicatively coupled to the test volume, via capillary action
Data Source
AI summary
A DS sensing apparatus includes a body and electrodes provided on the body. The body defines a test volume between a first surface and an opposing second surface spaced from the first surface a distance that allows a fluid to enter the test volume from a fluid inlet, which is communicatively coupled to the test volume, via capillary action. The electrodes include a first sensing electrode on the first surface and configured to receive an input RF signal, a second sensing electrode on the first surface spaced from the first sensing electrode and configured to deliver an output RF signal and a floating electrode on the second surface.