Electromagnetic Assemblies for Parallel Fluid Mixing and Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample mixing and separation techniques using magnetic particles are limited by inefficiencies in mixing, require serial processing, and are not suitable for parallel processing of large volumes, leading to sample loss and reduced automation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A fluid processing system utilizing electromagnetic assemblies with adjustable electromagnets arranged in horizontal layers around a fluid container, generating multi-dimensional magnetic field gradients to agitate magnetic particles within the fluid, allowing for efficient mixing and separation of samples in open containers of varying volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional liquid chromatography (LC) is used for sample separation, then separation of analytes from complex mixtures is achieved, but the process is serial and requires multiple parallel columns for simultaneous processing of multiple samples, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chromatography system (columns, pumps, stationary phases) with a magnetic field-based system. Electromagnets generate magnetic field gradients that manipulate magnetic particles functionalized with analytes, enabling parallel processing of multiple samples in a single chamber without requiring multiple physical columns
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic particle system serves multiple functions: separation, concentration, and detection of various analytes (proteins, small molecules, DNA) using a single platform. The same electromagnetic assembly can process multiple different samples simultaneously by functionalizing magnetic particles with different ligands
2Speed
If high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is used to decrease processing time, then sample processing speed is improved, but the complexity and cost of equipment (pumps, specialized components) increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for HPLC pumps and high-pressure systems by using magnetic field gradients to drive the separation process. Electromagnets create forces that move magnetic particles through the sample matrix at controlled speeds, achieving rapid separation without mechanical pumping or high-pressure equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodically switched electromagnets to create oscillating magnetic field gradients that rapidly cycle through different separation zones. This periodic action enables fast processing by continuously cycling samples through multiple separation stages in sequence
3Ease of operation
If magnetic particles are used for sample separation, then automation and ease of operation are improved, but mixing efficiency is insufficient leading to reduced mass transfer and binding kinetics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching of electromagnets to create oscillating magnetic field gradients that rapidly cycle through different spatial zones. This periodic action induces strong mixing motions of magnetic particles, enhancing mass transfer and binding kinetics while maintaining full automation
Solution Approach 2:
The rapidly switching magnetic fields create vibration-like motions in the magnetic particles, intensifying their movement and mixing within the sample. This vibrational effect improves contact between particles and analytes, accelerating binding kinetics without mechanical agitation
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed magnetic field configurations are used for magnetic particle manipulation, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to process different sample volumes and types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamically controllable electromagnets with adjustable field strengths, gradients, and switching patterns. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to different sample volumes, viscosities, and analyte types by adjusting magnetic field parameters in real-time, providing versatility without complex mechanical reconfiguration
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 rapid and efficient mixing and separation of large volumes of samples, reducing sample loss and enabling parallel processing, with improved automation and integration with downstream analytical instruments.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic assemblies with adjustable electromagnets arranged in horizontal layers around a fluid container, generating multi-dimensional magnetic field gradients to agitate magnetic particles within the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for processing fluids are described. In various aspects, a fluid processing system may include a magnetic assembly that includes a plurality of magnetic structures configured to generate a magnetic field gradient within a fluid container. The magnetic structures may be formed as a plurality of electromagnets configured to be individually actuated by a controller. Each of the electromagnets may generate a magnetic field within the fluid container. The electromagnets may be differentially actuated to create a magnetic field gradient within the fluid container to agitate, mix, or otherwise influence magnetic particles disposed within the fluid container. Activation of the electromagnets of an electromagnetic structure may generate a magnetic field gradient that influences magnetic particles in an x-y direction. In addition, activation of the electromagnets of a plurality of electromagnetic structures may generate magnetic field gradients that influences magnetic particles in an x-y direction and z-direction.