Magnetic Array Platform for Biomolecule Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sorting and manipulating micro- or nano-scale biomolecules, such as cells and proteins, are inefficient and unable to handle large populations quickly, as they rely on slow laser capture or atomic force microscopy that cannot automate the isolation and manipulation of multiple biomolecules.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic array platform with patterned discrete magnetic elements, electromagnets, and an electromagnetic coil is used to create controlled magnetic fields for trapping, manipulating, and sorting biomolecules by attaching magnetic particles to them, allowing for precise movement and separation within a substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser capture or atomic force microscopy is used to manipulate biomolecules, then manipulation precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to inability to handle large populations quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the manipulation task into parallel operations by creating multiple independent magnetic trap sites arranged in an array. Each trap site can simultaneously manipulate individual biomolecules, transforming a sequential single-site process into a parallel multi-site process that handles large populations quickly while maintaining precision through controlled magnetic forces at each site.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-point manipulation (0D) to array-based distributed manipulation (2D). By arranging multiple magnetic trap sites in a two-dimensional array on a substrate, the system can simultaneously manipulate numerous biomolecules across different locations, dramatically increasing throughput while maintaining individual manipulation precision through coordinated magnetic field control.
2Measurement precision
If traditional single-point manipulation methods are used, then manipulation precision is improved, but device complexity increases when attempting to scale to handle large populations
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic trap array system provides universal functionality where each trap site can manipulate different types of biomolecules by adjusting magnetic field strength and configuration. The same array platform can sort cells, proteins, or other biomolecules depending on their magnetic properties, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices for each biomolecule type and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical manipulation mechanisms (such as physical tweezers or micro-manipulators) with magnetic field-based control. By using magnetic forces to trap and move biomolecules rather than mechanical contact, the system achieves precise manipulation with simpler, more scalable components that can be controlled through electrical fields rather than complex mechanical linkages.
3Productivity
If magnetic forces are used to trap and transport biomolecules, then productivity is improved through rapid automated sorting, but force control precision must be maintained to avoid damaging biomolecules
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamically adjustable magnetic field strength and configuration to adapt to different biomolecule types and sizes. By continuously tuning the magnetic forces during trapping and transport, the system can optimize sorting speed for each specific biomolecule while maintaining sufficient force control precision to prevent damage, allowing rapid automated processing across diverse samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, temporal variation) to match the specific requirements of different biomolecules. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves both high sorting throughput and precise force control, as the magnetic forces can be finely tuned to the mechanical tolerances of delicate biomolecules while maintaining rapid processing capability.
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 rapid and automated sorting and manipulation of thousands of biomolecules by exerting sufficient magnetic forces to trap and transport micro- or nano-sized objects, overcoming the limitations of existing technologies in efficiency and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic coil positioned adjacent to the substrate for creating a second magnetic field substantially perpendicular to the plane of the substrate
Implementation Method 2
Exerting sufficient magnetic forces to trap and transport micro- or nano-sized objects
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of first electromagnets positioned adjacent to the substrate for creating a first magnetic field substantially in the plane of the substrate
Implementation Method 4
manipulated by controlling the magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic platform is provided and includes a patterned array of discrete magnetic elements positioned on a substrate, a plurality of first electromagnets for creating a first magnetic field substantially in the plane of the substrate, an electromagnetic coil for creating a second magnetic field substantially perpendicular to the plane of the substrate, and a control device for controlling the application of the magnetic fields. Processes for manipulating, transporting, separating and sorting micro-or nano-scale particles and biomolecules are also described.