Movable Magnetic Member for Sample Analyzer Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers face challenges in optimizing the arrangement of magnetic field applicators and imagers to prevent obstruction during magnetic particle detection, which affects sensitivity and accuracy in detecting low amounts of viruses or living substances.
Innovation Solution
The sample analyzer employs a magnetic member that can be moved between reversing and non-reversing positions to alter the magnetic field direction, allowing for efficient movement of magnetic particles between the cartridge and imager, reducing manufacturing costs by omitting the need for an additional electromagnet below the cartridge, and enabling smooth imaging of the sensor area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnetic field applier is arranged above the cartridge to apply magnetic field to magnetic particles, then magnetic particles can be effectively manipulated, but the imager positioned below the cartridge may be obstructed by the magnetic field structure
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic member is made movable between a first position (for applying magnetic field to magnetic particles) and a second position (for imaging). This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction by allowing the magnetic field application function when needed while removing the obstruction for the imager during measurement, thus maintaining detection sensitivity without permanent structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a static two-dimensional arrangement problem to a three-dimensional dynamic arrangement. By moving the magnetic member vertically between positions above and below the cartridge, the system resolves the spatial conflict between magnetic field application and imaging paths without requiring complex lateral arrangements
2Productivity
If the magnetic member is moved between reversing and non-reversing positions to alter magnetic field direction, then magnetic particles can be efficiently moved between cartridge and imager, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single magnetic member performs multiple functions: it applies magnetic field to manipulate magnetic particles during sample introduction, reverses direction to facilitate particle movement, and moves out of the way during imaging. This multi-functionality achieves high measurement efficiency without requiring separate components for each function, thus avoiding excessive system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field application function and the particle manipulation function are merged into a single magnetic member that can reverse its polarity. This consolidation achieves efficient particle control throughout the measurement process while using fewer components than separate magnetic field applicators and manipulation devices would require
3Measurement precision
If an additional electromagnet is added below the cartridge to prevent obstruction, then imaging is enabled, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding a permanent second electromagnet below the cartridge, the system uses a single movable magnetic member that dynamically repositions itself. During imaging, the magnetic member moves to a position below the cartridge where it cannot obstruct the imager, eliminating the need for additional electromagnetic components and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining imaging accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The movable magnetic member acts as an intermediary that temporarily occupies space during magnetic field application but removes itself from the imaging path when needed. This intermediary approach allows a single magnetic member to serve dual purposes without requiring permanent dual electromagnet installation, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
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
This configuration enhances sensitivity and accuracy in detecting magnetic particles, shortens measurement time, and reduces manufacturing costs by allowing the imager to be positioned below the cartridge without obstructing the magnetic field, improving the overall efficiency of the sample analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field applier that generates a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
apply magnetic force on magnetic particles
Implementation Method 3
an imager that individually recognizes and counts magnetic particles
Data Source
AI summary
A sample analyzer according to an embodiment includes a magnetic field applier configured to apply a magnetic field to a cartridge containing a sample and magnetic particles which bond an object to be detected in the sample; a measurer configured to measure the magnetic particles in the cartridge; and an analyzing processor configured to analyze and process a result of a measurement by the measurer. In addition, the magnetic field applier includes an electromagnet disposed on a first side of the cartridge; a magnetic member configured to be magnetized by the electromagnet; and a moving actuator configured to move the magnetic member.