Dielectrophoretic Particle Separation for Multiplexed Target Detection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection methods struggle to individually detect multiple target substances present in a sample with high sensitivity, as they often require complex differentiation and separation processes.

Innovation Solution

The method employs dielectrophoresis to separate and detect target substances by using dielectric particles modified with specific binding substances, allowing for the differentiation of composite particles based on dielectrophoretic properties and spectroscopic differences, enabling the individual detection of multiple target substances through a non-uniform electric field and alternating current voltages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional detection methods are used to detect multiple target substances, then detection sensitivity can be maintained for individual substances, but the complexity of differentiation and separation processes increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidcomplexity of differentiation and separation processes

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection process by assigning each target substance a unique dielectrophoretic signature through specifically modified dielectric particles. Each particle type responds differently to alternating current voltages at various frequencies, enabling individual identification and separation without complex mechanical or chemical differentiation processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameters (frequency and voltage amplitude of alternating current) to selectively manipulate dielectric particles with different dielectrophoretic properties. By varying these parameters, the system can selectively separate and detect different target substances based on their unique electrical response characteristics

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If dielectric particles with different dielectrophoretic properties are used to detect multiple target substances, then individual detection of each substance is enabled, but the complexity of particle modification and differentiation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to detect multiple target substancesVSAvoidcomplexity of particle modification and differentiation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical or chemical differentiation systems with an electrical field-based separation system. Dielectric particles are modified with substances that give them distinct dielectrophoretic responses to alternating current, allowing electronic rather than mechanical separation of multiple target substances

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal detection platform where dielectric particles serve multiple functions: they act as carriers for target substances, provide unique dielectrophoretic signatures for identification, and enable separation through electrical field manipulation. This multi-functional approach simplifies the overall system architecture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 effectively separates and detects each target substance by changing the dielectrophoretic properties of dielectric particles, allowing for precise identification and quantification of multiple substances in a sample, improving the sensitivity and accuracy of detection.

Implementation Method 1

separating a first composite particle that is a first dielectric particle to which the first target substance is bound among the first dielectric particles from the other first dielectric particle, and separating a second composite particle that is a second dielectric particle to which the second target substance is bound among the second dielectric particles from the other second dielectric particle by causing dielectrophoresis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectrophoresis: Dielectric Permittivity

Data Source

PatentUS20230398552A1Detection method and detection apparatus

Publication Date: 2023.12.14 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

AI summary

In a detection method, first dielectric particles each capable of being bound to a first target substance and second dielectric particles each capable of being bound to a second target substance are caused to react with a sample that contains a first target substance and a second target substance, the second dielectric particles having a different dielectrophoretic property from the first dielectric particles, a first composite particle to which the first target substance is bound is separated from the other first dielectric particle, and a second composite particle to which the second target substance is bound is separated from the other second dielectric particle by causing dielectrophoresis in the sample after the reaction, and the first target substance contained in the separated first composite particle and the second target substance contained in the second composite particle are each detected.