Open-Platform Bio-Detection Device Using Capacitive Spacer Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bio-detection devices are complex in structure and manufacturing process, requiring a large area and a driving unit for fluid control, making them difficult to use and costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A bio-detection device with an open platform that uses spacers connected to different voltage levels to sense capacitance, an electronic circuit to process signals, and a package layer that covers only the carrier, eliminating the need for a micro-channel and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a micro-channel is used for fluid analysis, then fluid control is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing process complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fluid control function from the complex micro-channel structure and implements it through simple external means (dropper, syringe, or natural capillary action). The detection device itself contains no micro-channels, driving units, or complex fluid control mechanisms, thereby eliminating structural complexity while maintaining ease of operation for fluid introduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device allows fluids to be introduced through natural processes such as capillary action or simple user actions (dropping, syringing) without requiring active driving units, pumps, or complex control systems within the device. The device serves itself by detecting fluids in their natural state of introduction.
2Productivity
If a micro-channel with driving unit is used, then fluid analysis is enabled, but the device requires a large area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the micro-channel network and driving units that occupy large areas, retaining only the essential detection function. The detection chamber is simplified to basic components (substrate, spacers, electrodes) that minimize footprint while maintaining fluid analysis capability through direct fluid placement on the detection surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar micro-channel layout to a three-dimensional detection chamber formed by spacers and electrodes standing vertically or at angles from the substrate. This vertical dimensionality reduces the horizontal area required while maintaining sufficient detection volume and fluid interaction space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different micro-channel designs are used for different fluids, then testing versatility is achieved, but manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection device with a standardized detection chamber that can accommodate different fluid types through software configuration and electrode pattern selection rather than physical redesign. The same basic structure serves multiple detection purposes by changing detection parameters, not manufacturing the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves versatility by changing detection parameters (electrode activation patterns, capacitance measurement configurations, signal processing algorithms) rather than changing the physical device structure. The same hardware platform detects different fluids by adjusting operational parameters through the electronic circuit and control software.
4Reliability
If a micro-channel structure is used, then fluid containment is achieved, but the device requires complicated manufacturing process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fluid containment function from complex micro-channel structures and implements it through simple geometric features: a detection chamber formed by spacers creating walls, with fluid introduction through an opening. This minimalistic containment structure is manufactured using standard PCB or semiconductor fabrication techniques rather than complex micro-machining.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thin spacer structures (which may be flexible or rigid) to define the detection chamber boundaries and contain fluids. These spacers are simple planar or L-shaped elements that can be manufactured using standard deposition and patterning processes, avoiding the need for complex three-dimensional micro-channel fabrication.
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 solution provides easier detection control, a compact size, simpler manufacturing, and lower costs, while allowing for easy fluid placement and eliminating the need for a large area and driving unit.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of spacers, located on the test region and electrically connected to at least two different voltage levels to format least one capacitor for sensing a capacitance of the fluid under test
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a bio-detection device, including a carrier, a plurality of spacers, an electronic circuit, and a package layer, wherein an open platform is formed. The carrier includes a test region and a signal transmission wiring, wherein the test region is configured to carry a fluid under test. The spacers are located on the test region and electrically connected to two different voltage levels to form a capacitor for sensing a capacitance of the fluid. The spacers are connected to the signal transmission wiring. The electronic circuit receives and processes a sensing signal corresponding to the capacitance of the fluid. The package layer covers a portion of the carrier but does not cover the test region. The open platform is formed whereby a user can easily put in the fluid. The open platform has a bottom which includes the test region, and an area of the open platform is defined by the spacers and the package layer.