Sample Analyzer Magnetic Field Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample analyzers using magnetic particles face challenges in efficiently switching magnetic fields without distorting the distribution of magnetic particles, leading to reduced bond-reaction efficiency and increased operational complexity due to the need for strong operation mechanisms and larger magnetic field generators.
Innovation Solution
A sample analyzer design incorporating a dual magnetic field generator system with a permanent magnet and soft magnetic materials, allowing for precise control of magnetic fields using a shunt yoke to short-circuit magnetic flux and reduce torque requirements, enabling efficient switching and distribution of magnetic particles without distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a C-shaped magnet and permanent magnet are used to switch magnetic fields, then magnetic field switching capability is improved, but the device size increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the C-shaped magnet from the magnetic field switching mechanism, retaining only the permanent magnet. This simplifies the device structure by removing unnecessary components while maintaining the essential magnetic field switching capability through the permanent magnet's interaction with the sample container.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex C-shaped magnet structure to generate and switch magnetic fields, the patent inverts the approach by using a permanent magnet in conjunction with the sample container's own magnetic properties, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Extent of automation
If a permanent magnet is moved in parallel to the sensing area during magnetic field switching, then magnetic field switching is achieved, but magnetic particle distribution is distorted and bond-reaction efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sample container serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the permanent magnet and the magnetic particles. By utilizing the container's magnetic properties and positioning, the system achieves magnetic field switching without the permanent magnet needing to move in parallel to the sensing area, thereby preserving magnetic particle distribution uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical movement of the permanent magnet in parallel to the sensing area with an alternative mechanism involving the sample container's positioning and magnetic properties, thereby eliminating the harmful mechanical action that distorts magnetic particle distribution.
3Reliability
If the C-shaped magnet is disposed away from the reaction container, then magnetic field interference is reduced, but the magnetic field generator size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the C-shaped magnet from the system, eliminating the need to position it away from the reaction container. This removal resolves the spatial conflict and reduces the overall magnetic field generator size while maintaining magnetic field distribution accuracy through the simplified permanent magnet configuration.
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 design enhances the bond-reaction efficiency of magnetic particles with the sensing area, reduces the size and power consumption of the analyzer, and improves analysis throughput while maintaining high sensitivity and precision.
Implementation Method 1
a permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field for attracting the magnetic particles (220) included in the sample (200) to the sensing area (120)
Implementation Method 2
a first soft magnetic material configured to be excited by the first permanent magnet
Implementation Method 3
a second soft magnetic material configured to short-circuit a magnetic flux from the first permanent magnet
Implementation Method 4
If a magnetic field is applied, the magnetic particles have magnetism, and move by magnetic force acting along a gradient of the magnetic field
Implementation Method 5
It is known that such a magnetic particle has superparamagnetism. If a magnetic field is applied, the magnetic particles have magnetism, and move by magnetic force acting along a gradient of the magnetic field. If the magnetic field is shut off, the magnetic particles lose magnetism and are dispersed.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a sample analyzer includes a detector, a first generator and a second generator. The detector detects a target substance bonded to a magnetic particle collected to a sensing area in the cartridge. The first generator applies a magnetic field for releasing the magnetic particles from the sensing area. The second generator includes a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field for attracting the magnetic particles to the sensing area, a first soft magnetic material, and a second magnetic material. The second generator switches application and shut-off of a magnetic field by moving the permanent magnet relative to the first soft magnetic material and the second soft magnetic material.