Filter Column Bearing Surface for Variable Tube Size Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtration columns are limited in their ability to be used with collection tubes of different sizes, leading to issues such as increased handling and risk of contamination when dealing with small volumes of nucleic acids, as they require larger tubes for wash and binding solutions but need smaller tubes for elution, causing inefficiencies and potential loss of sample.
Innovation Solution
A filter column design that includes a body with bearing surfaces allowing it to fit securely on collection tubes of varying sizes, along with a filter with tailored characteristics to minimize fluid holdup and optimize elution volumes, enabling centrifugation into at least two distinct sizes of collection tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If existing filter columns are used with large collection tubes for wash and binding solutions, then sufficient volume capacity is provided, but the risk of contamination increases and handling becomes less efficient when small volumes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The filter column system enables dynamic adaptation between different collection tube sizes based on the specific application requirements. The bearing surface geometry allows the same filter column to securely fit both large tubes (1.5-2.0 mL) for wash/bind operations and small tubes (0.5 mL or smaller) for elution, optimizing the system for each stage of the nucleic acid purification process
Solution Approach 2:
The filter column design achieves multi-functionality by incorporating a bearing surface that accommodates multiple tube size configurations. This universal interface allows a single filter column to serve different purposes: large tube mode for processing wash and binding solutions, and small tube mode for final elution, eliminating the need for multiple specialized columns
2Reliability
If existing filter columns are designed for single tube size, then secure fitting is achieved, but adaptability to different tube sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing surface employs an asymmetric conical or frustoconical geometry that creates a secure fit through geometric interlocking. This asymmetric shape provides a unique interface that maintains reliable engagement while accommodating variations in tube outer diameters, enabling the filter column to adapt to different tube sizes without compromising fit security
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes in the bearing surface geometry (cone angle, height, diameter) to achieve compatibility with different tube sizes. By optimizing these geometric parameters, the filter column maintains secure fitting across a range of tube dimensions while preserving the integrity of the connection
3Quantity of substance
If standard filters are used, then adequate filtration is provided, but fluid holdup is excessive and elution volumes cannot be minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is engineered with non-uniform properties: the outer peripheral region has reduced porosity or enhanced density compared to the central region. This local quality variation allows the filter to maintain adequate filtration capacity in the central area while minimizing fluid retention in the peripheral zones, thereby reducing overall fluid holdup and enabling smaller elution volumes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs porous filter materials with specifically controlled pore size distribution and porosity gradients. The porous structure provides sufficient filtration capacity for nucleic acid binding while the optimized pore characteristics minimize capillary retention of fluids, reducing the volume required for effective elution
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 design allows for efficient isolation and elution of nucleic acids into small volumes, reducing fluid holdup and the risk of contamination, while accommodating different tube sizes, thus improving the handling and processing of nucleic acids in molecular biology applications.
Implementation Method 1
Then the filter column is centrifuged in a microcentrifuge. Centrifugation forces the solution through the filter column's filter and binds the nucleic acid to the filter.
Implementation Method 2
the nucleic acid binds to the filter column filter in the presence of a chaotropic agent
Implementation Method 3
placement of an elution buffer (usually water having a specific pH) at the top of the column and applying centrifugation elutes the nucleic acid that is bound to the filter. Given the proper pH, the nucleic acid dissolves and elutes with the liquid into the collection tube.
Data Source
AI summary
This relates to filter columns for isolating nucleic acids, particularly at small elution volumes. The filter column is adapted for stable placement within the upper portion of standard plastic collection tubes of various sizes. The body of the filter column has a number of surfaces to accommodate placement within variously sized collection tubes. The filter column contains nucleic acid-specific filter which can be located at alternate regions within the filter column, providing different filter surface areas and loading volume capacities using the same column body. The filter column has an opening on an upper end adapted to be sealed by a cap. A method for recovering nucleic acids using such filter column is also provided.