Interdigitated Electrode Device for Nano-Object Electrical Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for characterizing small-sized objects, such as nanometric objects, face limitations in precision due to parasitic electrical phenomena at electrode interfaces and lack the ability to perform statistical measurements, with challenging object positioning on these structures.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with interdigitated electrode sets on a supporting base, allowing differential measurement of currents through objects to account for parasitic phenomena and enabling precise positioning of nano-objects by varying the length of contacting and inter-electrode zones across multiple measuring units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple parallel electrodes are used for measurement, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to parasitic electrical phenomena at electrode interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into multiple interdigitated sets (first set, second set, third set, fourth set) arranged in pairs. Each pair forms a measuring unit with alternating electrodes from different sets, creating multiple discrete measurement points along the object. This segmentation allows differential measurement that cancels parasitic effects while maintaining structural organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The interdigitated electrode configuration acts as an intermediary structure between simple parallel electrodes and the object being measured. By introducing alternating electrode sets with controlled spacing, the system mediates the measurement process to eliminate direct parasitic contact effects while still establishing electrical contact through the object.
2Device complexity
If single measuring unit is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ability to perform statistical measurement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent measuring units (first measuring unit, second measuring unit, etc.), each capable of performing measurements on the same or different objects. This segmentation enables statistical analysis by providing multiple data points from identical or varied measurement conditions, improving reliability without requiring overly complex individual units.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed electrode configuration is used, then manufacturing precision is simplified, but object positioning difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the electrode structure have different properties: the interdigitated electrode pairs provide localized measurement zones with specific contacting zone lengths and inter-electrode zone lengths. This local variation in measurement zone characteristics allows optimization for different object types and sizes while maintaining overall structural regularity for manufacturability.
4Reliability
If continuous contacting zone is used, then electrical conduction is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to account for parasitic currents
Solution Approach 1:
The contacting zone is segmented into discrete segments corresponding to individual electrode pairs, with inter-electrode zones between them. This segmentation allows the measurement system to distinguish between current through the object and parasitic currents at contacts, enabling accurate determination of the object's electrical contribution while maintaining reliable conduction paths.
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 solution enhances measurement precision by controlling parasitic currents and facilitates statistical analysis of nano-objects, improving the probability of accurate positioning and characterization of small objects like proteins on a substrate, suitable for industrial use.
Implementation Method 1
determine the current passing through the object
Implementation Method 2
parasitic electrical phenomena occurring at the interface between the electrodes and the object to be characterized
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device for measuring at least one electrical characteristic of an object, including a supporting base provided with at least two measuring units each including at least two sets of electrodes including electrodes, is provided. The electrodes of the sets of electrodes of the same measuring unit are interdigitated such that each electrode of one of the sets of electrodes of the measuring unit is spaced by an inter-electrode distance from an electrode, of the other of the sets of electrodes of the measuring unit, which is adjacent thereto, the electrodes differ in the features in respect of contact with the object and/or the electrode spacing thereof so as to make a differential current measurement.