Magnetic Particle Biomolecule Immobilization With Segmented Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for immobilizing biomolecules using magnetic particles result in incomplete liquid removal due to the ring-shaped arrangement of particles, leading to reduced cleaning efficiency and usable volume.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing an inhomogeneous magnetic field arrangement to fix magnetic particles in a structured manner within a container, allowing easier liquid flow-off and complete removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic particles are arranged in a ring shape by a magnet, then the magnetic particles can be easily fixed and liquid can be pipetted off, but the liquid removal is incomplete and cleaning efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the ring-shaped magnetic particle arrangement into multiple separate linear arrangements. Instead of forming a continuous ring, the magnetic particles are segmented into multiple lines that extend from the bottom to the edge of the cavity wall, allowing liquid to flow off more completely between and along these segmented structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional ring arrangement to a three-dimensional structured arrangement where magnetic particles form multiple linear structures extending vertically from the cavity bottom to the edge. This dimensional change creates pathways for liquid flow that were not present in the flat ring configuration.
2Device complexity
If magnetic particles are arranged in a ring shape, then the structure is simple and easy to implement, but the usable volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ring-shaped magnetic particle arrangement is segmented into multiple linear arrangements that extend from the cavity bottom to the edge. This segmentation optimizes the distribution of magnetic particles to maximize the usable volume while maintaining ease of implementation through a structured, repeatable pattern.
3Productivity
If magnetic particles are fixed in a structured manner using an inhomogeneous magnetic field, then liquid flow-off is improved and processing is faster, but the magnetic field arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by creating an inhomogeneous magnetic field with varying field strengths in different regions. The magnetic field is configured to be stronger near the cavity wall and bottom where particle fixation is needed, and weaker in the center where liquid flow-off is prioritized. This localized field variation optimizes both particle fixation and liquid removal without requiring complex overall system redesign.
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
Facilitates faster processing with higher yields, cleaner products, and efficient automation, while maintaining device compactness and allowing easy modification of existing machinery.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet arranged on a container in such a way that an inhomogeneous magnetic field acts on magnetic particles located in the container
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic particles were developed in 1995 at the Whitehead Institute for the purification of PCR products. The magnetic particles are mostly paramagnetic and can consist of polystyrene, which is coated with iron.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for the reversible immobilization of biomolecules by magnetic particles includes a container. The container is configured to be filled with a liquid containing biomolecules and a magnet. The magnet is arranged on the container in such a way that magnetic particles arranged in the container and to which the biomolecules are capable of being immobilized, are configured to be fixed in the container. An inhomogeneous magnetic field is configured to act on the magnetic particles disposed in the container and is capable of being generated by the arrangement of the magnet, so that the magnetic particles are arranged in a structured manner by the influence of the inhomogeneous magnetic field.