Cell Signal Electrode Plate for High-Density Sample Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell signal measurement technologies face limitations in aligning microelectrodes to precise measurement locations due to large electrode pitch and the need for a larger number of electrodes, while also requiring a transparent substrate for accurate positional alignment with the observation sample.
Innovation Solution
A cell signal measurement electrode plate with a transparent substrate featuring a matrix arrangement of selection lines and electrodes, including transistors and capacitance elements, allows for precise electrode placement at desired measurement locations using a flexible printed circuit and common wiring lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If microelectrodes are arranged in a dispersed manner with large electrode pitch to cover a wide area, then the measurement coverage is improved, but the alignment precision with the observation sample deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented into multiple groups, where each group contains multiple microelectrodes that are closely spaced. This segmentation allows the observation sample to be aligned with a specific group of electrodes, achieving both wide coverage and precise alignment. The segmented structure enables the user to select and align with particular electrode groups based on the sample's position and size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional change by arranging electrode groups in a matrix format with multiple rows and columns. This two-dimensional arrangement allows the system to cover a large area while maintaining precise alignment capabilities through the structured grid, where each cell contains closely spaced electrodes that can be aligned with specific sample locations.
2Measurement precision
If a large number of microelectrodes are arranged to increase measurement density, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple microelectrodes within each group are merged into a functional unit that can be selectively activated. This merging allows the system to achieve high measurement density through the collective capability of electrode groups while reducing the complexity of individual electrode control. The groups are managed through a unified selection mechanism rather than individual control of each microelectrode.
Solution Approach 2:
Each electrode group serves multiple functions: it can be selected for measurement, it provides multiple measurement points within its area, and it can be aligned with different positions on the observation sample. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of independently controllable electrodes needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If a transparent substrate is used to enable accurate positional alignment, then the alignment capability is improved, but the electrical insulation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a transparent substrate (such as glass or transparent resin) with conductive polymer layers. The transparent substrate provides optical clarity for alignment, while the conductive polymer layers provide electrical insulation and signal transmission. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction by assigning different functions to different layers of the same structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive polymer layer acts as an intermediary between the transparent substrate and the metal electrodes. It maintains the transparency of the substrate for optical alignment while providing the necessary electrical insulation and conductive pathways for signal transmission. This intermediary layer allows both optical and electrical requirements to be satisfied simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A cell signal measurement electrode plate includes a first transistor including a gate terminal connected to a first selection line and a source terminal connected to a second selection line, a second transistor including a gate terminal connected to a drain terminal of the first transistor, a source terminal connected to an electrode, and a drain terminal connected to a common wiring line, and a first capacitor including one capacitance electrode connected to the drain terminal of the first transistor and another capacitance electrode connected to a capacitance element potential fixing wiring line.