Portable Analyte Purification via Pressure-Driven Fluidics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional centrifugation methods are not suitable for portable devices used in the purification and detection of analytes, such as nucleic acids, due to the need for heavier equipment and challenges in effectively removing remnant liquid solutions from solid-phase columns and automating pressure-based pumping processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of pressurization-based methods in portable devices, where a pumping lid generates pressure to move liquids through solid-phase columns, combined with pierceable membranes for reagent storage and on-demand release, and a rotating section to form fluidic pathways, enabling efficient purification and amplification of analytes without the need for centrifugation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If centrifugation methods are used for purification, then separation efficiency is improved, but device weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the centrifugal mechanical system with a pressure-driven fluidic system. A pumping lid applies pressure to move liquids through solid-phase columns, eliminating the need for centrifugation equipment while achieving comparable purification results through pressure-based flow control
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses pneumatic pressure applied through a pumping lid to drive liquid flow through purification columns. This hydraulic/pneumatic mechanism substitutes for the mechanical centrifugal force, enabling portable device operation without heavy centrifuges
2Measurement precision
If centrifugation equipment is used, then purification capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into discrete functional modules: sample chambers, solid-phase columns, washing chambers, and a pumping lid. Each module performs a specific function in the purification sequence, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to integrated centrifugation equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The pumping lid dynamically controls fluid flow by applying pressure in sequence to different chambers. This dynamic pressure control enables automated multi-step purification (loading, washing, elution) without complex mechanical mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining capability
3Weight of moving object
If manual pressure-based pumping is used, then device portability is improved, but automation capability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping lid is pre-configured with pressure application points and sealing mechanisms that enable automated pressure cycling. The system includes pre-defined fluid pathways and chamber configurations that allow automated execution of purification protocols without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses the pressure generated by the pumping lid to automatically drive fluid through the purification columns and waste removal pathways. The system self-regulates flow through pressure differential, eliminating the need for external pumps or complex automation mechanisms while maintaining portability
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
This approach allows for portable and automated purification and amplification of nucleic acids, achieving comparable results to standard laboratory methods while reducing equipment size and complexity, and enabling efficient processing of samples in a miniaturized format.
Implementation Method 1
pressurization-based methods in portable devices, where a pumping lid generates pressure to move liquids through solid-phase columns
Implementation Method 2
move liquids through solid-phase columns, combined with pierceable membranes for reagent storage
Data Source
AI summary
A sample preparation module accepts a sample including a target analyte. The sample preparation module processes the sample through several reaction chambers and a solid phase column. Different reagents are present in the reaction chambers. The eluted analyte is then transferred to the amplification module, where it is further processed and amplified for optical analysis.