Multi-Well Assay Plate Electrodes With Dual-Function Auxiliary Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochemical assay systems face inefficiencies in controlling potential differences and require separate reference electrodes, limiting the number and configuration of working electrodes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of dual-function auxiliary electrodes with a redox couple, functioning as both counter and reference electrodes, allowing for improved control over potential differences and enabling faster voltage pulses, thereby enhancing electrochemical analysis efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate reference electrodes are used in conventional electrochemical assay systems, then potential differences can be controlled, but the number and configuration of working electrodes are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reference electrode and counter electrode functions into a single auxiliary electrode structure. This auxiliary electrode is patterned with multiple discrete regions that can serve different functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate reference electrode components and reducing device complexity while maintaining control over potential differences
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary electrode is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the reference electrode and counter electrode. By incorporating a redox couple and using voltage pulsing techniques, this single electrode structure can reference potential and drive electrochemical reactions, thereby increasing the number and configuration of working electrodes without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Speed
If conventional electrochemical systems use separate reference and counter electrodes, then potential control is achieved, but analysis speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic voltage pulsing applied to the auxiliary electrode to enable faster analysis. By using alternating voltage pulses that drive redox reactions in the auxiliary electrode, the system achieves rapid potential control and faster electrochemical analysis compared to conventional continuous potential control methods
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by using voltage pulsing instead of continuous potential control. This parameter change enables faster analysis speeds while the auxiliary electrode's dual functionality maintains adequate potential control, resolving the trade-off between speed and complexity
3Speed
If dual-function auxiliary electrodes are used, then faster voltage pulses are enabled, but stable interfacial potential is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the auxiliary electrode's redox couple responds to applied voltage pulses, providing self-regulating potential control. The redox reactions at the auxiliary electrode create a feedback loop that stabilizes the interfacial potential even during rapid voltage pulsing, allowing fast analysis without sacrificing potential stability
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 use of dual-function auxiliary electrodes provides stable interfacial potential, enabling faster and more efficient electrochemical analysis processes, such as ECL, by reducing the need for separate reference electrodes and allowing for additional working electrode zones.
Implementation Method 1
The voltage triggers a cyclical oxidation and reduction reaction, which causes light generation and emission
Implementation Method 2
ECL immunoassay involves a process that uses ECL labels designed to emit light when electrochemically stimulated
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-well assay plate is provided. The multi-well assay plate includes at least a top plate that defines a plurality of wells and a base plate having a substrate with well electrode structures patterned thereon. The well electrode structures are arranged in a plurality of sector electrical structures, each including a working electrode bus bar and a portion of an auxiliary electrode pattern. The substrate further includes at least one working electrode contact patterned on a bottom surface and an auxiliary electrode contact pattern disposed on the bottom surface.