Emulsion Drop Tagging and Recovery for Multi-Parameter Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow cytometry systems are inadequate for sorting cells based on secreted molecules and do not allow for multiple parameter-based selection and characterization of particles, particularly in kinetic reactions, and manual drop recovery is laborious and prone to evaporation and contamination.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the classification and tagging of drops in an emulsion based on measured parameters, followed by selective recovery using a system with a measuring device, classification unit, tagging device, and recovery device, allowing for precise characterization and efficient recovery of products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual micropipette aspiration is used to recover specific drops, then individual drop recovery is achieved, but the process is laborious and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by tagging drops with fluorescent markers during the measurement phase before recovery. This pre-tagging allows the system to automatically identify and recover specific drops without manual intervention, as the tags are already in place to guide the recovery process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical micropipette aspiration system with an automated optical-mechanical system. The system uses fluorescent detection (optical) to identify tagged drops and an automated micropipette controlled by a computer (mechanical substitution) to recover them, eliminating manual labor and enabling automation
2Reliability
If micropipette aspiration is used to recover drops, then individual drop selection is possible, but removal of the upper wall creates risks of evaporation and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-tagging drops with fluorescent markers before the recovery process. This allows the system to identify and recover only the desired drops while keeping the chamber closed, preventing evaporation and contamination that would occur if the upper wall were removed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fluorescent tags as an intermediary mechanism. These tags allow the system to selectively identify and recover specific drops without needing to open the chamber, thus maintaining product integrity while enabling precise recovery through optical detection rather than direct mechanical access
3Measurement precision
If flow cytometry systems are used for particle sorting, then simple measurements before recovery are achieved, but sorting based on secreted molecules and multiple parameter monitoring is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by creating a system that combines measurement, tagging, and recovery capabilities in one integrated platform. The system can measure multiple parameters including kinetic reactions, tag drops based on those measurements, and recover them automatically, making it versatile for various sorting applications beyond what traditional flow cytometry offers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by performing measurements and tagging drops with fluorescent markers before the recovery process. This allows the system to characterize particles based on multiple parameters including secreted molecules through kinetic monitoring, then selectively recover them based on those characterizations
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 reliable, fast, and automated selection and recovery of drops with improved characterization and reduced contamination, enabling multiple parameter-based sorting and kinetic reaction monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
measuring at least one physical parameter for several drops of the emulsion
Implementation Method 2
tagging at least some of the classified drops based on the class of the drop
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for selecting and recovering products, including providing an emulsion (6) comprising a plurality of drops (4) contained in a carrier fluid (10), each drop comprising an internal fluid (8), measuring at least one physical parameter for several drops (4) of the emulsion (6), classifying at least some of the drops (4) of the emulsion in a class based on measurements obtained during measuring, tagging at least some of the classified drops (4) based on the class of the drop (4), and selectively recovering the drop (4) or part of the drop (4) using the tag of the drop or part of the drop (4).