Free-Floating Magnet Base for Automated Paramagnetic Particle Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample processing systems face challenges in efficiently isolating target analytes from complex liquid samples, as existing methods often require manual handling and lack precision in separating magnetic particles from other components.
Innovation Solution
A sample processing system incorporating a magnetic base with a free-floating bottom magnet and a magnetic head that uses a combination of top and bottom magnets to collect, move, and release magnetic particles bound to target analytes between wells of a sample plate, allowing for automated and precise isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling methods are used for isolating target analytes, then operational flexibility is maintained, but processing efficiency and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic base automatically generates magnetic fields to move paramagnetic particles between wells without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates the magnetic field activation sequence to achieve automated particle transfer, eliminating the need for manual handling while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with a magnetic field-based system. Electromagnets in the magnetic base substitute for human hands in manipulating paramagnetic particles, achieving automated and precise particle isolation without direct mechanical contact
2Measurement precision
If existing isolation methods are used, then simplicity is maintained, but precision in separating magnetic particles is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic base employs multiple electromagnets positioned at specific locations corresponding to different wells. Each electromagnet can be independently activated to create localized magnetic fields, enabling precise control over particle movement to specific destinations while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Paramagnetic particles serve as intermediaries between the magnetic field system and the target analytes. The particles are manipulated by magnetic fields for precise separation and transport, enabling high-precision isolation without requiring complex direct manipulation mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If paramagnetic particles are released to positions with permanent magnets, then particle collection is achieved, but particle release to sample locations requires additional mechanical movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical particle release mechanisms with magnetic field control. Electromagnets in the magnetic base substitute for mechanical release systems, using magnetic field activation to automatically release particles to sample locations without additional mechanical complexity in the magnetic head
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic base serves multiple functions: it collects particles when electromagnets are activated, releases particles when electromagnets are deactivated, and transports particles between wells through sequential activation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each operation, simplifying the overall system
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 efficient and automated isolation of target analytes from complex liquid samples, reducing manual handling and improving precision in separating magnetic particles, thus facilitating further analysis.
Implementation Method 1
A stationary lower magnet in the base below the cartridge and below the sample locations acts on the magnet in the magnetic head, as well as on the paramagnetic particles
Implementation Method 2
The moveable magnetic head carries over paramagnetic particles to an adjacent sample location. A stationary lower magnet in the base below the cartridge and below the sample locations acts on the magnet in the magnetic head, as well as on the paramagnetic particles, wherein said particles will move to the more powerful magnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A magnetic base for a sample plate of a sample processing system is provided comprising a first plate comprising a first top surface; a bottom surface; and a sample plate mounting cavity wall mounted to the first top surface, wherein the first plate and the sample plate mounting cavity wall define a sample plate mounting cavity configured to accommodate a sample plate of a sample processing system. The magnetic base further comprises a second plate extending parallel to the first plate, the second plate comprising a second top surface; and a magnet mounting cavity wall extending between the bottom surface of the first plate and the second top surface of the second plate, wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the magnet mounting cavity wall define a magnet mounting cavity configured to accommodate a free floating magnet.