Filter Device for Cell Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional filter devices for characterizing cell behavior are complex, time-consuming, and costly, with limited high-throughput capabilities due to the need for intricate positioning of electrodes and fluid handling, which hinders efficient measurement processes.
Innovation Solution
A filter device configuration featuring a well with separate chambers and a horizontally disposed filter, allowing independent top access and coplanar sensors or electrodes at a common inner surface, facilitating efficient cell characterization without the need for moving parts or complex electrode insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional filter devices are used with intricate electrode positioning and fluid handling, then cell characterization measurements can be made, but the device complexity increases and processing time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the well into separate chambers (first well chamber and second well chamber) that are vertically stacked and separated by the filter. This segmentation allows independent access to each chamber through separate openings, eliminating the need for complex lateral electrode positioning and fluid handling mechanisms while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal electrode positioning and fluid handling to vertical stacking of chambers. By arranging chambers in the vertical dimension rather than requiring lateral access, the device simplifies the overall structure and reduces the complexity of electrode and fluid management systems.
2Reliability
If conventional filter devices with separate chamber access are used, then cell behavior can be monitored, but the processing time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides separate access openings for the first and second well chambers, allowing simultaneous or independent operations in each chamber. This segmentation enables parallel processing and eliminates time-consuming sequential operations, reducing overall processing time while maintaining reliable cell behavior monitoring.
3Measurement precision
If conventional filter devices with complex configurations are used, then measurements can be made, but the cost and ease of manufacture are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including the well structure, filter, and separate chamber systems. This modular segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be produced independently and assembled systematically, reducing fabrication complexity and cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
By transitioning to vertical chamber stacking, the invention reduces the lateral footprint and simplifies the manufacturing process. The vertical arrangement requires fewer precise lateral alignments and reduces the complexity of electrode and fluid channel routing, making the device easier and more cost-effective to manufacture.
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 configuration enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of cell characterization by simplifying the measurement process, reducing processing time, and enabling high-throughput analysis while maintaining non-invasive monitoring of cell behavior and permeability.
Implementation Method 1
disposing a filter horizontally within the well between and at least partially separating the separate first well chamber and second well chamber of the well
Implementation Method 2
passively analyzes cell behavior by applying a weak AC current, and measuring voltage changes
Data Source
AI summary
A filter device is provided which includes a well, at least one top access opening to the well, and a horizontally-disposed filter. The well, which includes an inner surface at least partially defining the well, also includes a first well chamber to accommodate a fluid and a second well chamber to accommodate a fluid. The first well chamber and the second well chamber are separate chambers, and the inner surface at least partially defines the first well chamber and at least partially defines the second well chamber. The at least one top access opening provides independent top access to the first well chamber and the second well chamber, and the horizontally-disposed filter is positioned between and at least partially separates the separate first well chamber and second well chamber of the well.