Needle Manipulator Array for Biological Cell Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for biological cell injection using microneedles or nanoneedles are not cost-effective and lack efficient control mechanisms for improved throughput and precision in manipulating multiple needles simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cell trap and a manipulator array comprising multiple micro-chambers and actuators, where each manipulator has a needle mounted on a stage, allowing for precise control of needle movement through actuators that apply forces in various directions, and interconnected for coordinated action across a substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional MEMS technologies with silicon wafer devices are used for cell injection, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple independent manipulator units, each capable of independent operation. Each manipulator consists of a needle, stage, and actuator that can be controlled individually, allowing parallel processing of multiple cells while maintaining simplicity in each unit's design
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulator design uses universal components that can perform multiple functions. The stage structure serves both as a mounting platform for the needle and as a movable platform controlled by the actuator. The same basic manipulator design can be replicated across the array to handle different cell types and injection requirements
2Productivity
If multiple manipulators are integrated on a single silicon wafer, then productivity increases, but interconnect complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple manipulator units are merged onto a single silicon wafer substrate, sharing common support structures and control infrastructure. The manipulators are arranged in an array where adjacent units can share mechanical supports and electrical interconnect pathways, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining individual operational independence
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulators are arranged in a two-dimensional array on the wafer surface, utilizing spatial distribution to reduce interconnect length and complexity. By organizing manipulators in rows and columns with systematic interconnect routing, the patent reduces the complexity of wiring and control signals compared to a three-dimensional or scattered arrangement
3Ease of operation
If actuators apply force in multiple directions to manipulate the needle, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system applies forces locally in specific directions rather than requiring omnidirectional control. By positioning actuators at strategic locations around the needle base and applying forces in targeted directions, the system achieves precise needle manipulation without requiring complex multi-directional actuator configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The stage acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the needle. The actuator applies force to the stage, which then translates and transmits this force to the needle in the desired direction. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the actuator design by decoupling the force application from the needle orientation requirements
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
Enhances the precision and efficiency of biological cell injection by enabling controlled penetration of needles into cells with improved throughput and reduced costs through coordinated actuation of multiple needles on a single silicon wafer.
Implementation Method 1
the voltages generating electrostatic forces to cause the actuator to apply tension so as to actuate the stage
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided, comprising a cell trap comprising a plurality of micro-chambers, each micro-chamber configured to hold a cell. The device can further comprise a manipulator array comprising a plurality of manipulators, each manipulator in spatial communication with a respective micro-chamber, wherein each manipulator comprises a needle, a stage, and an actuator, wherein the needle is mounted to the stage, and the actuator is operable to apply force to the stage in a direction to move the needle to penetrate a cell in the respective micro-chamber.