Microscale Plasma Separator Using Acoustic Radiation Pressure

The patent replaces manual capillary action and plunger-driven pressure systems with an acoustic field-based separation mechanism. Acoustic waves generate acoustic radiation pressure that drives fluid movement and cell aggregation, eliminating the need for mechanical pumps or capillary action while maintaining electricity-free operation. This resolves the contradiction by providing a non-mechanical energy transfer method that is faster than manual systems but doesn't require complex electrical equipment.

The patent utilizes acoustic field-induced phase transitions in fluid dynamics, where acoustic radiation pressure creates localized pressure zones that drive plasma separation. The acoustic field causes periodic compression and rarefaction of the fluid, creating effective pressure gradients that move plasma through the filter membrane without mechanical contact. This phase-like transition in fluid behavior enables rapid separation without traditional mechanical drive systems.

The patent implements self-service through acoustic field-induced cell aggregation, where blood cells automatically aggregate at acoustic pressure nodes without external mechanical manipulation. This self-organizing behavior of cells under acoustic fields eliminates the need for complex mechanical aggregation devices or manual handling steps, enabling large volume processing with simple device architecture.

The patent uses acoustic radiation pressure—a form of acoustic hydraulics—to drive plasma separation and cell aggregation. The acoustic field creates pressure gradients throughout the fluid volume, enabling bulk processing of large blood samples without requiring complex mechanical pumping or pressure control systems. This acoustic hydraulic approach simplifies the device while maintaining the ability to process large volumes efficiently.

The patent replaces direct mechanical pressure application with acoustic radiation pressure for driving plasma separation. Acoustic waves create distributed pressure gradients throughout the fluid that gently guide plasma through the filter membrane without localized high-stress zones. This substitution of mechanical pressure with acoustic field effects enables rapid separation while maintaining cell integrity, as the acoustic pressure is distributed and controllable.

The patent changes the physical parameter used for driving separation from mechanical pressure to acoustic radiation pressure. By controlling acoustic frequency and amplitude, the radiation pressure can be precisely tuned to achieve optimal separation speed without exceeding thresholds that cause cell lysis. This parameter control through acoustic fields enables independent optimization of separation speed and cell integrity.