Portable Biological Sample Purification Device with Modular Cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for purifying biological samples are cumbersome, require expensive and sophisticated equipment, and are not suitable for low-scale or remote applications due to their large size, high power consumption, and need for skilled operators and controlled laboratory conditions.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a housing that includes a cartridge holder, pump, heating element, and actuators to circulate and process biological samples using a matrix chamber with a binding matrix, allowing for selective routing of fluids and temperature control, powered by a battery and controlled by a unit that regulates the operation of these components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional purification methods are used, then purification effectiveness is maintained, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular functional units: a cartridge containing the binding matrix for purification, a separate pump system for fluid circulation, and a control unit for automation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall purification effectiveness, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The binding matrix in the cartridge automatically binds target particles from the biological sample through affinity interactions, eliminating the need for complex mechanical separation systems. The system self-regulates fluid flow through the matrix via pump control, reducing the need for manual intervention and complex control mechanisms.
2Productivity
If conventional purification equipment is used, then sample processing capability is maintained, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The purification function is extracted into a separate, lightweight cartridge containing only the essential binding matrix material. This cartridge can be easily replaced and disposed of, while the main device body contains only the minimal necessary components (pump, control unit), dramatically reducing overall device weight and size while maintaining processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge with binding matrix is designed as a disposable component that can be quickly replaced. This eliminates the need for cleaning and maintenance of the purification medium, reducing the complexity of the main device and allowing it to be lightweight and portable. The cartridge handles all sample processing, maintaining productivity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional purification systems are used, then continuous power supply is ensured, but energy independence is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pump operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously, activating only when needed to circulate sample through the binding matrix. This intermittent operation significantly reduces power consumption, enabling the system to function on battery power for extended periods and providing energy independence for portable use.
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 efficient and portable purification of biological samples, reducing the need for continuous power and specialized equipment, making it suitable for remote locations and low-scale applications while maintaining effective sample processing and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element configured in said housing to heat said matrix chamber to a specific temperature
Implementation Method 2
a pump positioned in said housing which is fluidly connected to said cartridge and circulates said biological sample and reagents through said cartridge
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a portable device for purifying biological sample. The device comprises a housing and a cartridge holder accommodated in the housing for holding at least one cartridge configured to purify the biological sample. At least one pump is positioned in the housing which is fluidly connectable to the cartridge to circulate the sample and one or more fluids through the cartridge. Further, at least one heating element is configured to heat a matrix chamber in the cartridge. At least one actuator is disposed in the housing to actuate one or more valves to selectively route the biological sample and the one or more fluids in the cartridge. A control unit is interfaced with the actuator, the heating element and the pump and is configured to regulate operation of the actuator, the pump and the heating element during purification of the biological sample.