Magnetic Transfer Surface for DNA Target Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for isolating and transferring DNA targets for PCR are time-consuming and cumbersome, lacking integration with instruments like PCR machines and thermocyclers, requiring manual pipetting and not streamlining the process for downstream analysis.
Innovation Solution
A device with a transfer surface and alignment structure that moves between positions to align with different locations, using a magnetic force to attract and release target-bound solid phase substrates, allowing for direct integration with various instruments for downstream analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual pipetting methods are used to transfer DNA targets, then flexibility in handling is maintained, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pipetting operations with an automated magnetic field-based transfer system. The magnetic field attracts paramagnetic beads bound to DNA targets, enabling automated transfer between locations without manual intervention, thereby increasing productivity while reducing time consumption through streamlined automated processes
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field automatically performs the transfer function by attracting and moving the paramagnetic beads containing DNA targets. The system serves itself by using the inherent magnetic properties of the beads to achieve transfer without requiring external mechanical manipulation or manual pipetting operations
2Productivity
If integration with downstream instruments is implemented, then processing efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer device is designed with universal compatibility to interface with multiple types of downstream instruments including PCR machines, thermocyclers, and other analytical equipment. The standardized transfer mechanism can serve multiple functions across different instrument platforms, increasing processing efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the transfer device and downstream instruments. By using magnetic attraction to move samples, the system creates a universal interface that can connect to various instrument types without requiring complex custom integration for each instrument, thereby maintaining relatively simple device architecture while achieving high processing efficiency
3Ease of operation
If automated transfer mechanisms are used, then labor requirements decrease, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical transfer mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic field naturally attracts and moves paramagnetic beads through the medium, eliminating the need for complex mechanical pumps, valves, or moving parts. This substitution achieves automated transfer with improved ease of operation while keeping the device mechanism relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The paramagnetic beads self-move in response to the magnetic field without requiring complex external actuation mechanisms. The beads automatically navigate to the region of strongest magnetic field, performing the transfer function autonomously. This self-service behavior simplifies the overall device mechanism while maintaining automated operation and improving ease of use
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 efficient and streamlined transfer of DNA targets from one location to another, enabling simple integration with PCR machines and other analytical instruments, reducing manual handling and increasing processing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A force is movable between an attraction position wherein the target bound solid phase substrate are drawn toward the first region of the transfer surface and a discharge position wherein the target bound solid phase substrate are freed of the force. The force may be magnetic.
Implementation Method 2
An alignment structure aligns the transfer surface with respect to the second fluid with the transfer surface in the second location.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method are proved for transferring a target from a first location to a second location. The target is bound to solid phase substrate to form a target bound solid phase substrate. The device includes transfer surface for receiving the target bound solid phase substrate thereon for transfer. The transfer surface movable between a first position wherein the transfer surface is aligned with the first location and spaced therefrom by a distance and a second position wherein the transfer surface is aligned with the second location. An alignment structure aligns the transfer surface with respect to the second location, with the transfer surface in the second position. A force is movable between an attraction position wherein the target bound solid phase substrate are drawn toward the transfer surface and a discharge position wherein the target bound solid phase substrate are free of the force.