Selective Magnetic Particle Manipulation via Electropermanent Magnet Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack the ability to selectively manipulate multiple magnetizable particles in a region of space without affecting all particles simultaneously, which is crucial for precise medical treatments or therapies involving magnetic particles.
Innovation Solution
The use of electropermanent magnets with rapidly alternating currents to create a selective demagnetization state, allowing for the application of a magnetic gradient pulse that differentially affects particles, enabling their selective manipulation and positioning within a region of interest.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a magnetic field is applied to manipulate magnetizable particles, then particle manipulation capability is achieved, but selective manipulation of individual particles is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the manipulation process into distinct temporal segments: a first magnetic field sequence establishes initial particle states, and a second magnetic field sequence selectively manipulates specific particles. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both general manipulation capability and selective control by applying different field configurations at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies a preliminary magnetic field sequence that creates specific magnetization states in particles before the selective manipulation step. This preliminary action prepares the particles by establishing their magnetic memory states, enabling subsequent selective manipulation based on their individual states without affecting all particles simultaneously.
2Reliability
If continuous magnetic field is applied to maintain particle manipulation, then particle control is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic magnetic field sequences instead of continuous fields. The first sequence establishes particle states, and the second sequence selectively manipulates particles. By using pulsed, periodic fields with appropriate timing and duration, the system maintains reliable particle control while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous field application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the self-service property of magnetic memory in particles. Once particles are magnetized by the first field sequence, they retain their magnetization states without requiring continuous external field application. This allows the system to maintain particle control states passively, reducing energy consumption during the manipulation phase.
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 the precise translation and positioning of magnetic particles without affecting others, reducing energy requirements and enhancing the flexibility of treatment regimens, enabling targeted therapy and manipulation of particles in medical applications.
Implementation Method 1
The use of electropermanent magnets with rapidly alternating currents to create a selective demagnetization state
Implementation Method 2
application of a magnetic gradient pulse that differentially affects particles, enabling their selective manipulation and positioning
Implementation Method 3
at least one part of at least one particle retains its magnetic polarization after reduction or removal of magnetic field from the at least one part of the at least one particle
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and components thereof enable selective or differentiated manipulation of at least one of a plurality of particles located in a region of space via magnetic field generation and variation.