Planar Micro-Capacitive Sensor Array for Real-Time Nanoparticle Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical capacitance imaging systems provide low-resolution images unsuitable for nanosize particles and are limited by the need for numerous capacitance measurements, making them slow and impractical for real-time analysis.
Innovation Solution
A micro-capacitive sensor array with overlapping 2D arrays of conductive electrodes, optimized for maximum perimeter-to-area ratio, allows for higher resolution and fewer measurements, enabling real-time image reconstruction and improved signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional electrical capacitance imaging systems with circular sensor electrodes are used, then the system can visualize volume flows, but the resolution is low and unsuitable for nanosize particles
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into multiple planar electrode arrays arranged in specific geometric patterns (e.g., hexagonal, triangular) rather than using a single circular sensor configuration. This segmentation allows for higher spatial resolution while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular electrode design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional 3D volume flow visualization to 2D planar particle detection by arranging electrodes in flat arrays. This dimensional change enables higher resolution for nanosize particles on the detection plane while simplifying the sensor configuration compared to complex 3D electrode arrangements
2Measurement precision
If numerous capacitance measurements are performed to image movement, then measurement coverage is improved, but the system becomes slow and impractical for real-time analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The planar electrode array configuration provides sufficient measurement coverage with fewer electrodes compared to conventional circular arrays. This partial action approach achieves adequate movement imaging coverage without requiring numerous capacitance measurements, enabling faster real-time analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the electrode configuration from circular to planar arrangements with specific patterns. This parameter change optimizes the measurement coverage per electrode, reducing the total number of capacitance measurements needed while maintaining adequate imaging capability for real-time applications
3Reliability
If sensor electrode area is increased to improve signal strength, then signal-to-noise ratio improves, but spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system segments the total sensing area into multiple smaller electrode elements arranged in arrays. Each electrode maintains a size that provides adequate signal strength, while the collective array coverage ensures high spatial resolution. This segmentation resolves the trade-off between signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple small electrode elements are merged into a coordinated array system where each element contributes to both signal generation and spatial positioning. The combined effect of the electrode array provides both sufficient signal-to-noise ratio through cumulative signal strength and high spatial resolution through precise electrode positioning and patterning
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 sensor array achieves higher resolution, larger signal-to-noise ratios, and quicker image reconstruction, facilitating real-time analysis of nanoparticle movement and identification.
Implementation Method 1
sensing minute particles/materials such as viruses, bacteria, cells, nanoparticles, or other molecules via electrical impedance/capacitance
Implementation Method 2
The micro-capacitive sensor array comprises: a first two-dimensional (2D) array of non-contacting conductive electrodes
Implementation Method 3
senses material type and movement, especially minute particles/materials such as viruses, bacteria, cells, nanoparticles, or other molecules or formations that encompass a different dielectric constant than that of surrounding media
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for detecting the presence and/or monitoring a movement of an analyte contained in a medium. More specifically, a microcapacitive sensing system is provided that includes a planar micro-capacitive sensor array for detecting the presence of an analyte in a sample media. The sensor structure for sensing recognizing or tracking material movement includes a top planar substrate having a first array non-contacting planar conductive electrodes and a bottom planar substrate having a second array of non-contacting planar conductive electrodes overlapping corresponding aligned electrodes in the first array. The overlapping conducting electrodes are triangular shaped to maximize perimeter-to-area ratio. The first and second planar substrates are parallel and sealed to define a volume therebetween for receiving a medium including the analyte to be detected or monitored. The sensing of movement accomplished by measuring a capacitance change between electrodes in the top substrate and aligned electrodes in the bottom substrate.