Dual-Axis Centrifugal Sedimentation for Rapid Bacteria Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting pathogenic bacteria in blood samples are time-consuming, risking patient mortality due to delayed identification during conditions like blood poisoning.

Innovation Solution

A centrifugal sedimentation method involving dual-axis rotation of a sample container, utilizing a primary and secondary rotational speed to separate particles based on sedimentation velocity, allowing particles to reach equilibrium positions for efficient separation and identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional cultivation methods are used to detect bacteria in blood samples, then accurate identification can be achieved, but the detection time is too long which risks patient mortality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebacteria identification accuracyVSAvoiddetection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the physical parameters of the detection process by using centrifugal force fields instead of traditional cultivation methods. By varying rotational speeds and centrifugal forces, particles are separated based on their sedimentation velocities, enabling rapid identification of bacteria within minutes rather than days, thus resolving the contradiction between detection speed and accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The dual-axis rotation system creates periodic centrifugal force variations that enhance particle separation efficiency. The alternating centrifugal forces from two rotational axes create dynamic sedimentation conditions that accelerate particle fractionation, allowing rapid bacterial detection while maintaining identification precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Productivity

If dual-axis rotation is used to separate particles, then separation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticle separation efficiencyVSAvoidrotational mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges two rotational functions into a single integrated device structure. The dual-axis rotation system combines primary and secondary rotational movements in one apparatus, achieving enhanced particle separation efficiency while avoiding the need for multiple separate devices, thus balancing productivity improvement with acceptable device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds a second rotational dimension to the particle separation process. By introducing rotation about a secondary axis in addition to the primary axis, the system creates complex three-dimensional particle trajectories that enhance separation efficiency based on sedimentation velocity differences, achieving superior productivity through dimensional expansion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Facilitates rapid and effective separation of bacteria from blood cells, enabling quicker identification and analysis, reducing the risk of delayed diagnosis.

Implementation Method 1

rotating the sample about a primary axis outside the sample at a first rotational speed and about a secondary axis located in a center of the sample at a second rotational speed, for subjecting the sample to a varying centrifugal field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 2

separating particles having different sedimentation velocities in a fluid sample through centrifugal sedimentation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSedimentation: Sedimentation

Data Source

PatentEP4017643B1Separating particles through centrifugal sedimentation
Publication Date: 2025.11.19 GRIMALDI DEV AB
  • EP4017643B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4017643B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4017643B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A method of separating particles (P) having different sedimentation velocities in a fluid sample (30) through centrifugal sedimentation comprises enclosing the sample (30) and rotating the sample about a primary axis (12) outside the sample at a first rotational speed (Ω), and about a secondary axis (22) located in the center of the sample at a second rotational speed (ξ), for subjecting the sample to a varying centrifugal field until each particle (P) has settled at a position which depends on the sedimentation velocity of the particle.