Nano-structured Biological Detection Chip with Dielectrophoresis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological detection systems are inadequate for effectively capturing and separating target biological particles from liquid samples, limiting their further processing and analysis.
Innovation Solution
A biological detection system comprising a capturing device with a cell structure, monolithic chip, and a layer of binding agent, where the monolithic chip features discrete nano-sized structures with pores and a binding agent for capturing target particles, and an electrode unit for dielectrophoresis to enhance particle capture and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional capturing devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but particle capture efficiency and separation capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The capturing device is divided into an upper cell body and a lower cell body that can be separately assembled and disassembled. The monolithic chip is segmented into multiple discrete nano-sized structures arranged in an array, each capable of independent particle capture. This segmentation enables both improved capture efficiency through parallel processing and ease of manufacture through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional two-dimensional surface binding to three-dimensional nano-sized structures with vertical extension. The discrete nano-sized structures rise from the substrate surface, creating multiple binding interfaces at different heights and depths, thereby increasing the effective capture area and particle separation capability without proportionally increasing the device footprint.
2Manufacturing precision
If discrete nano-sized structures are used, then particle binding efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs controlled chemical etching parameters to transform a solid substrate into discrete nano-sized structures. By adjusting etching time, temperature, and chemical composition, precise control over structure height, diameter, and spacing is achieved. This parameter-based control enables high manufacturing precision through conventional chemical processes rather than complex lithographic steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical lithographic patterning with chemical etching processes to create nano-sized structures. Chemical etching using buffered HF and other etchants allows self-organized formation of discrete structures through controlled dissolution, eliminating the need for complex mechanical alignment and patterning equipment while achieving high precision.
3Reliability
If binding agent layer is applied, then particle capture capability is enhanced, but non-specific binding of unwanted materials increases
Solution Approach 1:
The binding agents are selectively applied only to specific regions of the discrete nano-sized structures, particularly at the tips and upper surfaces where particle contact is most likely. This localized functionalization enhances capture capability at critical interfaces while minimizing non-specific binding on other surfaces. The cell structure walls and lower regions can have different surface properties to reduce unwanted interactions.
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 system effectively captures and separates target biological particles, allowing for their subsequent processing and analysis, with the nano-sized structures' high specific surface area and porosity facilitating efficient binding and separation, and the electrode unit ensuring precise capture and prevention of unwanted materials.
Implementation Method 1
a layer of binding agent formed on the top end of each of the discrete nano-sized structures for capturing the target biological particles
Implementation Method 2
an electrode unit for dielectrophoresis to enhance particle capture and separation
Data Source
AI summary
A biological detection system for detecting a liquid sample containing a plurality of target biological particles includes a capturing device including a cell structure, an inlet, an outlet, a monolithic chip, and a layer of binding agent. The monolithic chip includes a substrate and a plurality of discrete nano-sized structures which are displaced from each other and each of which extends uprightly from the substrate to terminate at a top end. The layer of binding agent is formed on the top end of each of the discrete nano-sized structures for capturing the target biological particles.