Porous Barrier Liquid Processing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for biomolecule isolation and purification from biological samples are laborious, time-consuming, and prone to contamination due to the need for multiple pipetting steps and the use of devices that are not effectively liquid-impermeable until an external force is applied, leading to risks of sample loss and contamination.
Innovation Solution
A device with a hollow body containing a non-permeable barrier that becomes irreversibly liquid-permeable upon application of an external force, allowing for the temporary retention and controlled delivery of liquids between compartments, reducing the need for multiple pipetting steps and minimizing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a device uses traditional filters or membranes that become liquid-permeable only after external force is applied, then liquid retention is achieved, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to irreversible permeability changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a porous barrier material that selectively allows liquid passage based on pressure differential. The porous structure enables the barrier to remain closed under normal conditions while opening automatically when pressure differential is applied, eliminating the need for complex mechanical actuation systems and achieving reliable liquid retention without irreversible permeability changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in pressure differential parameters to control barrier permeability. By maintaining appropriate pressure differentials across the porous barrier, the system achieves dynamic control over liquid flow without requiring structural changes or complex mechanisms, thereby simplifying the device while improving reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple pipetting steps are used for sample processing, then liquid transfer precision is improved, but loss of time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple liquid transfer operations into a single integrated device with multiple compartments separated by porous barriers. This allows sequential liquid transfers to occur simultaneously in one operation, maintaining precision while dramatically reducing processing time and labor requirements compared to multiple separate pipetting steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions including liquid retention, pressure differential control, and sequential compartment access within a single integrated structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate pipetting operations while maintaining transfer precision through controlled pressure differentials.
3Reliability
If traditional separation methods are used, then biomolecule isolation is achieved, but contamination risk increases due to multiple handling steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sample processing system into multiple sealed compartments separated by porous barriers. Each compartment can be independently controlled and accessed, allowing sequential processing steps to occur within a closed system. This segmentation reduces contamination risk by minimizing exposure to the external environment while maintaining isolation reliability through controlled barrier permeability.
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 device enables efficient and controlled processing of liquid samples by allowing for the separation and purification of biomolecules with reduced contamination and sample loss, streamlining the isolation process by maintaining liquid permeability even after the external force is removed.
Implementation Method 1
becomes irreversibly liquid-permeable by applying an external force like pressure, drag force or driving power to said barrier
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention refers to a device, comprising a hollow body having at least one open end and at least one barrier inside of the hollow body, which is non- permeable for liquids and solids under ambience conditions, however, becomes liquid-permeable by applying an external force like pressure, drag force or driving power to said barrier, wherein said barrier is spaced from at least one open end of the hollow body, the use of such a device for processing of a liquid sample, a method for preparation of said device and a method for isolation or purification of any biomolecules using said device.