Programmable DEP Microelectrode Chip for Label-Free Particle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor chips lack the capability to generate complex and programmable electric field patterns for precise manipulation and separation of particles without labeling, hindering high-throughput and high-precision applications in biotechnology.
Innovation Solution
A programmable dielectrophoretic semiconductor chip with a microelectrode structure, including a top electrode, logic circuits, and insulating layers, capable of generating programmable electric fields for precise particle manipulation and positioning, integrated with a control system for pattern generation and signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional semiconductor chip is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it lacks the capability to generate complex and programmable electric field patterns for precise particle manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated microelectrode structure. The top electrode serves both as a sensing element for detecting particles and as an actuating element for manipulating particles through dielectrophoresis. The logic circuits are integrated directly into the microelectrode, enabling programmable control of electric field patterns without requiring separate control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The microelectrode structure is designed to perform multiple functions: particle detection through capacitive sensing, particle manipulation through dielectrophoresis, and programmable control through integrated logic circuits. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple separate systems, achieving versatility in particle handling operations.
2Measurement precision
If no labeling is used for particle identification, then the sample preparation is simplified, but the precision of particle identification and separation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/chemical labeling methods with an electrical field-based identification system. The top electrode detects particles through capacitive sensing, measuring electrical properties such as capacitance and impedance that are inherent to the particles themselves. This electrical detection method eliminates the need for physical labels while maintaining identification precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system identifies and separates particles by detecting and responding to changes in electrical parameters (capacitance, impedance) of particles under different electric field conditions. By applying different voltage patterns to the top electrode, the system can distinguish particles based on their dielectric properties without requiring any labels or tags.
3Productivity
If high-throughput particle manipulation is required, then the processing speed increases, but the precision of particle positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The logic circuits generate periodic voltage patterns that are applied to the top electrode in a sequential manner. This periodic action allows the system to systematically address and manipulate multiple particles in a structured sequence, achieving both high throughput and precise positioning by cycling through different particle targets at controlled intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the voltage patterns applied to the top electrode based on real-time detection results. The logic circuits process detection signals and modify the electric field patterns accordingly, enabling adaptive particle manipulation that maintains precision while increasing throughput through optimized processing sequences.
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 the generation of complex electric field patterns for precise movement and positioning of particles, facilitating high-throughput and high-precision biotechnological applications, including integration with existing cell culture processes.
Implementation Method 1
Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a technique which uses non-uniform electric fields to exert forces on particles. It facilitates the manipulation, separation and positioning of the particles.
Implementation Method 2
CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) capacitive sensing chips with high sensitivity and resolution are capable to detect the quality of microparticle.
Data Source
AI summary
The present inventive concept discloses a programmable dielectrophoretic semiconductor chip, which comprises a microelectrode. The microelectrode comprises: a surface; a top electrode provided close to the surface; a first logic circuit used to receive and store a pattern signal; and a second logic circuit is used to receive a first analog signal and a second analog signal which are input from an external part of the microelectrode, wherein the second logic circuit is used to choose the first analog signal or the second analog signal according to the pattern signal which is received by the first logic circuit, and a voltage of the top electrode changes with the first analog signal or the second analog signal. The semiconductor chip of the present inventive concept is capable to move or position a specific single particle. In addition, the present inventive concept further provides a packaging structure with semiconductor chip and a control system of the semiconductor chip.