Centrifugal Particle Capture via Rotating Substrate Fluidic Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional particle processing devices require expensive micro-pumps and complex systems to control fluid flow, limiting their ability to selectively separate and collect particles using centrifugal force.
Innovation Solution
A particle processing device with a rotatable substrate and fluidic paths that utilize centrifugal force to transfer fluids, featuring a capturing region with a changeable sectional shape and flexible fluidic paths, allowing control of flow velocity and particle separation without the need for expensive pumps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional pressure sources (micro-pumps) are used to transfer fluid, then fluid transfer is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical micro-pumps with a centrifugal force generation system. A rotor assembly rotates to generate centrifugal force that drives fluid through the fluidic path, eliminating the need for complex mechanical pumping mechanisms and reducing both manufacturing cost and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor assembly serves multiple functions: it generates centrifugal force for fluid transfer, provides rotational control for flow rate adjustment, and enables particle separation through controlled rotation speeds. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate pumps and flow control mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional particle processing devices are used, then fluid transfer is achieved, but the device cannot selectively separate and collect particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a capturing region with specific local properties within the fluidic path. This region has a narrower width that creates localized centrifugal separation effects, allowing particles to be selectively captured based on their size and density while the rest of the system maintains its fluid transfer function
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses variable rotation speeds to dynamically control particle separation. By adjusting the rotational velocity of the rotor assembly, different particle sizes can be separated and captured at different stages of fluid flow, providing adaptable particle processing without additional mechanical components
3Ease of manufacture
If expensive micro-pumps are used, then precise fluid transfer is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls fluid transfer precision by changing rotational parameters (speed, acceleration, direction) of the rotor assembly. Precise control of these rotational parameters enables accurate fluid delivery and timing without requiring expensive micro-pump mechanisms
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
Enables efficient separation and collection of particles by controlling rotational velocity and direction, reducing manufacturing costs and increasing analysis speed through simple processes.
Implementation Method 1
The fluidic path transfers a fluid having a particle from an input portion to an output portion of the fluidic path by using a centrifugal force of the rotation of the substrate
Implementation Method 2
The capturing region may have a sectional dimension smaller than the minimum size of the particle that is deformed under a local pressure due to the physical characteristics of the particle such as deformability or stiffness
Data Source
AI summary
A particle processing device includes a substrate and at least one fluidic path. The substrate is rotatable with respect to the middle region thereof. The fluidic path is provided in the substrate to extend from the middle region to a peripheral region. The fluidic path transfers a fluid having a particle from an input portion to an output portion of the fluidic pather by using a centrifugal force of the rotation of the substrate. A capturing region is formed between the input portion and the output portion of the fluidic path to have a changeable sectional shape for capturing the particle.