Continuous Motion Cell Sorter Tray Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow cytometry systems using stop-and-go motion for moving multi-well trays are inefficient, leading to increased system maintenance and longer processing times for cell sorting, as they cause mechanical wear and do not allow for continuous alignment with the flow stream of cells.
Innovation Solution
A system with a continuously moving support stage and a controller that synchronizes the motion with the cell sorter, enabling continuous alignment and sorting of cells into a multi-well tray, reducing processing time and mechanical wear by allowing cells to be sorted into individual containers with precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stop-and-go motion is used to move the multi-well tray, then the tray can be positioned at specific locations for sorting, but the mechanical parts experience increased wear and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous motion of the multi-well tray through the flow stream without stopping at each well position. The tray moves continuously while the cell sorter deflects droplets into the appropriate wells based on real-time positioning data, eliminating the stop-and-go cycles that previously caused mechanical wear and extended processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a positioning system that continuously tracks the tray's location and provides feedback to the cell sorter. This real-time feedback enables the sorter to accurately deflect droplets into the correct wells while the tray is in motion, maintaining positioning precision without requiring the tray to stop.
2Measurement precision
If stop-and-go motion is used to move the multi-well tray, then sorting can be performed at discrete positions, but mechanical wear increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous motion system eliminates repeated starting and stopping of the tray, which reduces mechanical stress and wear on drive components. The tray moves smoothly through the sorting region, and the positioning system maintains alignment precision throughout the continuous motion, thereby extending mechanical part longevity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical stop-and-go positioning system with a continuous motion system controlled by electronic feedback. Instead of mechanically stopping and repositioning the tray at each well, the system uses continuous motion with electronic control of droplet deflection, reducing mechanical wear and maintenance needs.
3Productivity
If continuous motion is used to move the multi-well tray, then processing time is reduced and mechanical wear is reduced, but precise alignment with the flow stream must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system continuously monitors the tray's position and provides real-time feedback to the cell sorter. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain precise alignment between the moving tray and the flow stream, ensuring that droplets are deflected into the correct wells even during continuous motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the droplet deflection timing and position based on the tray's continuous motion. The cell sorter modifies its operation in real-time to match the tray's position, maintaining alignment precision throughout the continuous motion cycle and enabling high-speed sorting without sacrificing accuracy.
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 significantly reduces the time required to process multiple wells, enhances mechanical part longevity, and improves the efficiency of cell sorting by allowing continuous motion and precise alignment with the flow stream, resulting in faster and more reliable cell collection.
Implementation Method 1
A flow stream of analyzed cells is produced and a deflected stream of analyzed cells is generated by electrostatic deflection of the analyzed stream
Implementation Method 2
A support stage that moves continuously with respect to the sorter is configured
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods of using the same for sorting cells are provided. The systems may include a cell sorter including a deflector capable of deflecting an analyzed droplet to a deflected droplet receiving location, a support stage including a container and configured to continuously move in two dimensions. The systems and methods of using the same find use in a variety of different applications.