Light Triggering Structure for Contactless Biological Particle Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional biological particle selection devices require contact with the target biological particle to accurately move it along a predetermined path, which limits their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A contactless selection device with a light triggering structure and a mating structure, utilizing a photodiode layer with specific structural design to generate a concentrated and non-uniform electric field, allowing for the application of dielectrophoresis (DEP) force on the target biological particle without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional biological particle selection devices use contactless methods, then particle damage is reduced, but the ability to accurately move particles along a predetermined path deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into multiple independent electrodes arranged in arrays, allowing selective activation of specific electrode segments to generate localized electric fields that can precisely position particles without physical contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based particle manipulation with a field-based system using dielectrophoresis forces generated by non-uniform electric fields from electrode arrays, eliminating mechanical contact while maintaining precise control
2Use of energy by moving object
If the photodiode layer thickness is increased, then light absorption and electric field generation improve, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies an optimized thickness range of 1-3 μm for the photodiode layer, balancing light absorption efficiency with manufacturing feasibility. This parameter optimization allows sufficient photon absorption while remaining within standard semiconductor fabrication capabilities
3Measurement precision
If the triggering pad width is decreased, then spatial resolution for particle selection improves, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes triggering pad dimensions to 3-7 μm width with spacing ≤2 μm, achieving high spatial resolution for selective particle manipulation while remaining within the capabilities of standard photolithography and semiconductor manufacturing processes
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 accurate and contactless movement of target biological particles by generating a concentrated electric field, improving the selection process and reducing the risk of particle damage.
Implementation Method 1
generate a concentrated and non-uniform electric field to the liquid specimen for applying a dielectrophoresis (DEP) force on the target biological particle, in which the DEP force is capable of driving movement of the target biological particle
Implementation Method 2
allows a light source to irradiate light onto at least one of the triggering pads so as to generate a concentrated and non-uniform electric field
Data Source
AI summary
A contactless selection device, a light triggering structure thereof, and a biological particle selection apparatus are provided. The light triggering structure includes a first substrate, a first electrode layer formed on the first substrate, a photodiode layer formed on the first electrode layer, and an insulating layer that covers the photodiode layer. The photodiode layer has a thickness within a range from 1 μm to 3 μm, and includes a first doped layer, an I-type layer, and a second doped layer, which are sequentially stacked from the first electrode layer. The second doped layer includes a plurality of triggering pads spaced apart from each other. Each of the triggering pads has a width within a range from 3 μm to 7 μm, and a distance between any two of the triggering pads adjacent to each other is less than or equal to 2 μm.