Microfluidic Sample Volume Reduction via Centrifugal Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reducing the volume of biological samples are inefficient, relying on operator skill and manual centrifugation, which is time-consuming, prone to errors, and not suitable for in vitro diagnostic applications, especially when dealing with small sample volumes and low numbers of microparticles.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic system with a manipulation assembly that accelerates a container to separate liquid components, using centrifugal forces to collect excess liquid while retaining microparticles, employing a rotating mechanism and retaining systems like capillary traps to ensure precise volume reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If manual centrifugation and pipetting are used to reduce sample volume, then the sample volume can be reduced, but the process becomes time-consuming and operator-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic volume reduction through programmed centrifugation cycles and automated liquid dispensing, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The microfluidic device performs multiple centrifugation-d ispense cycles autonomously to achieve precise volume reduction
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts centrifugation parameters (speed, duration) and dispensing parameters (volume, timing) across multiple cycles to optimize volume reduction efficiency. Parameters are modified based on real-time feedback and pre-programmed protocols
2Quantity of substance
If high-speed centrifugation is used to reduce sample volume, then the liquid can be separated, but the microparticles may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic centrifugation at controlled speeds followed by liquid dispensing, repeating this cycle multiple times. This periodic action allows gradual volume reduction while maintaining microparticle integrity through controlled, intermittent centrifugal forces rather than continuous high-speed centrifugation
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifugation speed and duration are dynamically adjusted across different cycles based on the remaining sample volume and microparticle concentration. The system transitions from higher speeds in early cycles to lower speeds in later cycles to protect microparticles while maintaining separation efficiency
3Quantity of substance
If manual pipetting is used to collect excess liquid, then volume reduction can be achieved, but the success rate is unreliable and reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical pipetting with an automated liquid dispensing system that uses programmed parameters for precise, repeatable liquid removal. The dispensing mechanism is controlled by a computer or microprocessor to ensure consistent operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor sample volume and microparticle concentration across cycles, automatically adjusting dispensing parameters to maintain optimal conditions and ensure reproducible results
4Measurement precision
If multiple measurements are taken to obtain desired volume, then the volume precision can be improved, but the number of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs continuous volume reduction through multiple automated centrifugation-d ispense cycles without requiring manual intervention between measurements. The continuous automated operation achieves precise volume control while minimizing the perceived complexity through integration
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
The method significantly reduces sample volume with high reproducibility and precision, reducing operator dependency and time, making it suitable for in vitro diagnostics by automatically controlling the centrifugal forces and retaining systems to maintain microparticles within the container.
Implementation Method 1
A microfluidic system with a manipulation assembly that accelerates a container to separate liquid components, using centrifugal forces to collect excess liquid while retaining microparticles
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
Method and apparatus for the reduction of the volume of a sample (2); the method comprises an acceleration step, during which a container (6) containing the sample (2) is accelerated so that a part of a liquid component (3) of the sample (2) flows out of an opening (8') of one end (8) of the container (6); according to some embodiments, the container (6) is made to rotate around a rotation axis (A) passing through the container (6); the container (6) is orientated radially relative to the rotation axis (A) with its opening (8') facing outwards.