Dielectrophoretic Particle Separator Using Planar Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current particle separation technologies face challenges in reliably and predictably separating particles based on size and electric polarizability, particularly in biological applications, due to chaotic electric field distributions and lack of adaptability in particle sizes and applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of fluid entrained particle separators that utilize dielectrophoretic forces by creating a uniform electric field in a single plane, with electrodes positioned to direct particles into distinct separation passages based on their size and electric polarizability, and the use of particle focusers to ensure laminar flow and precise separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional particle separation technologies are used, then particles can be separated, but the separation process is unreliable and unpredictable due to chaotic electric field distributions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the continuous electric field into discrete, controlled segments by using individually addressable electrodes arranged in specific patterns. This segmentation allows precise control over field distribution, eliminating chaotic field patterns and enabling reliable, predictable particle separation based on size and polarizability differences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality control by applying different electric field strengths and patterns to different regions of the separation chamber. Specific electrode configurations create localized field gradients that selectively affect particles of different sizes and polarizabilities, ensuring stable and reproducible separation outcomes in each region.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional separation methods are used, then some particle separation occurs, but the system lacks adaptability to different particle sizes and applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamically controllable electrodes that can be independently activated and programmed to create various field patterns. This dynamic control allows the same device to adapt to different particle sizes and separation requirements by changing electrode activation sequences and voltages, providing versatility without requiring physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array design provides universal functionality by enabling multiple separation modes within a single device configuration. The same electrode structure can separate particles of varying sizes and polarizabilities through programmed voltage patterns, making the system adaptable to diverse applications without requiring multiple specialized devices.
3Measurement precision
If particles are separated based on size and electric polarizability, then separation accuracy improves, but the process becomes less predictable due to chaotic field distributions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates equipotential regions between adjacent electrodes by carefully controlling voltage distributions. This equipotential design ensures that particles experience consistent and predictable force fields as they move through defined zones, enabling accurate separation based on size and polarizability while maintaining reproducible and predictable separation patterns.
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 enhances the reproducibility and reliability of particle separation, allowing for consistent and predictable diversion of particles into different regions, improving the accuracy and reliability of the separation process.
Implementation Method 1
electrodes to create an electric field that exerts a dielectrophoretic force on the particles
Implementation Method 2
applying an electric field in a plane to the stream to exert dielectrophoretic forces in the plane on the particles
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid entrained particle separator may include an inlet passage to direct particles entrained in a fluid, a first separation passage branching from the inlet passage, a second separation passage branching from the inlet passage and electrodes to create electric field exerting a dielectrophoretic force on the particles to direct the particles to the first separation passage or the second separation passage, wherein the first separation passage, the second separation passage, the electric field and the dielectrophoretic force extend in a plane.