Flow Cytometry Nozzle Aligning Asymmetric Particles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nozzles for flow cytometers are not effective in aligning non-rotationally symmetrical particles in a liquid flow, and they are often complex to manufacture due to non-rotationally symmetrical components.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle design with a tapering housing and a feed tube, featuring a leading element with a cross-section that extends more in one dimension than the other, allowing for the alignment of particles with a stretched shape, such as flat cells, by creating different flow velocities for the sheath flow liquid, thus aligning particles effectively without requiring rotationally non-symmetrical inner surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If non-rotationally symmetrical components are used in the nozzle to align non-rotationally symmetrical particles, then particle alignment effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using a rotationally symmetrical nozzle housing that creates different flow velocities in different directions through its geometric design. The asymmetrical particle alignment is achieved not through asymmetrical nozzle components, but through the interaction between the symmetrical nozzle geometry and the properties of non-rotationally symmetrical particles (such as sperm cells), allowing effective alignment while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow velocity parameter by designing the nozzle with a tapering housing that accelerates the liquid flow. This velocity change creates hydrodynamic forces that align non-rotationally symmetrical particles effectively, while the nozzle itself maintains rotational symmetry for easy manufacturing
2Manufacturing precision
If complex non-rotationally symmetrical nozzle components are used, then alignment of non-rotationally symmetrical particles is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by demonstrating that asymmetrical particle alignment can be achieved with a symmetrical nozzle structure. The asymmetry required for aligning non-rotationally symmetrical particles is generated through the flow dynamics created by the symmetrical tapering geometry, eliminating the need for complex asymmetrical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a rotationally symmetrical tapering housing with curved surfaces that guides the liquid flow and particles. This curved, symmetrical geometry creates the necessary flow conditions for aligning non-rotationally symmetrical particles without requiring complex mechanical structures, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining alignment effectiveness
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
The nozzle efficiently aligns and sorts particles, such as non-human mammalian sperm, into fractions by utilizing a rotationally symmetrical inner surface for easy manufacturing and effective alignment, enhancing the sorting process in flow cytometry.
Implementation Method 1
creating different flow velocities for the sheath flow liquid, thus aligning particles effectively
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a nozzle for flow cytometry, the housing of which is tapering towards an outlet and in which a feed tube is arranged for a core flow liquid, the outlet opening of which is arranged at a distance from the outlet of the housing. The outlet of the housing forms the outlet of the nozzle. The housing of the nozzle extends from its outlet, which is arranged at its first end to its opposite second end, and has an inlet for a sheath flow liquid connected with the internal volume. The nozzle is characterized in that in the housing a leading element that promotes the alignment of particles extends from both sides of the feed tube.