Parallel DSC Sample Carrier for Small-Volume Thermal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) systems are limited by low sample throughput and high analysis time, requiring large sample volumes and being economically inefficient for commercial use, especially in biotechnological and medical applications.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for simultaneous thermal analysis of multiple samples using a sample carrier with integrated sensors, a heating/cooling unit, and a measuring instrument, allowing for high-throughput analysis of small sample volumes under controlled environmental conditions, with optional visual inspection and data evaluation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional DSC systems perform single sample analysis, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity is low and analysis time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sample analysis process into multiple independent measurement channels, each with its own sensor and sample vessel. The sample carrier is segmented into multiple positions (e.g., 96-well plate format), allowing simultaneous analysis of multiple samples without compromising individual measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple single-sample DSC measurement systems are merged into a single integrated platform. The system combines multiple sensors, heating/cooling units, and data acquisition channels into one coordinated system that maintains the measurement quality of individual DSC while achieving high throughput through parallel processing
2Productivity
If conventional DSC systems use single sample measurement, then measurement precision is ensured, but device complexity increases for high throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal sample carriers (such as standard microtiter plates) that can accommodate multiple sample types and configurations. The measurement system is designed to handle various sample formats through a single integrated platform, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining measurement capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
A standardized sample carrier serves as an intermediary between the samples and the measurement system. This carrier abstracts the complexity of handling multiple samples, providing a uniform interface that simplifies sample introduction, positioning, and data correlation while enabling parallel measurements
3Measurement precision
If conventional DSC systems require large sample volumes, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each sensor in the array is designed to interact with only the local sample in its corresponding vessel, requiring minimal sample volume per measurement location. The system maintains measurement precision by optimizing the sensor-sample interaction at each local position rather than requiring large overall sample volumes
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
Enables rapid, reproducible, and cost-effective analysis of multiple samples, reducing preparation time and increasing efficiency in product development and medical diagnosis, while ensuring high sample throughput and comparable results.
Implementation Method 1
a heating and/or cooling unit for the simultaneous temperature application of the single samples included in the sample vessels
Implementation Method 2
a heating and/or cooling unit for the simultaneous temperature application of the single samples included in the sample vessels
Implementation Method 3
a single sensor for measuring an amount of heat emitted or absorbed by the single sample during the thermal analysis
Data Source
AI summary
A system for the simultaneous thermal analysis of a plurality of single samples of, in particular biological, material by means of differential scanning calorimetry, with at least one sample carrier having several sample vessels, wherein a single sensor for measuring an amount of heat emitted or absorbed by the single sample during the thermal analysis is assigned to each sample vessel; a heating and/or cooling unit for the simultaneous temperature application of the single samples included in the sample vessels, with a receptacle for the at least one sample carrier; a measuring instrument, which is connected to the single sensors and which is formed to simultaneously capture a measuring value for the emitted or absorbed amount of heat of the single samples during the thermal analysis, a sample carrier, in particular for use in this system as well as a method for the simultaneous analysis of a plurality of single samples or groups of single samples by means of differential scanning calorimetry.