Soldered Acoustic Separator Coupling for Biological Sample Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustic separators for biological samples face inefficiencies in acoustic energy transfer from acoustic field generators to flow channels, leading to suboptimal separation of components such as tissue, tissue fragments, and free cells.
Innovation Solution
The use of a soldered acoustic field generator, such as a piezoelectric transducer, to a flow channel with a metal layer, enhances acoustic energy transfer by up to 10-fold compared to adhesive coupling, allowing for improved separation of larger components from smaller ones in biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional separation methods (centrifugal, gravitational, magnetic, electrical, or acoustic field flow fractionation) are used, then particle separation can be achieved, but the systems become complex, require large sample volumes, high particle concentrations, or specialized equipment not available in typical clinical laboratories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical separation systems (centrifugal, gravitational, magnetic, electrical fields) with a simple acoustic standing wave field generated by piezoelectric transducers. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical equipment while achieving effective particle separation based on acoustic radiation forces, making the system suitable for clinical laboratory settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter used for separation from mechanical forces (centrifugal, gravitational) to acoustic radiation pressure. By utilizing the acoustic streaming effect and standing wave patterns, particles are separated based on their acoustic properties rather than requiring complex mechanical field generation, simplifying the overall system design.
2Productivity
If acoustic radiation pressure is applied to separate particles, then separation efficiency improves, but particle aggregation may occur reducing separation quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic acoustic standing waves to create oscillating radiation pressure fields that move particles along defined trajectories. The periodic nature of the acoustic field allows particles to be transported sequentially through different regions of the chamber, enabling separation while minimizing aggregation through controlled, rhythmic motion rather than continuous strong forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic streaming flow as an intermediary mechanism that transports particles through the separation chamber. This fluid-mediated transport method allows particles to be moved and separated without direct high-intensity acoustic forces acting continuously on them, reducing aggregation while maintaining separation efficiency through the combined effect of acoustic radiation pressure and streaming flow.
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 soldered connection significantly increases acoustic energy transfer efficiency, enabling effective separation of tissue, tissue fragments, and free cells from smaller components like cellular debris, proteins, and nucleic acid fragments.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic standing wave is used to separate particles in a particle mixture by applying an acoustic radiation pressure on the particles
Implementation Method 2
a piezoelectric transducer is used to generate the acoustic standing wave
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include an acoustic separator for acoustically separating components of a sample, such as a biological sample. Acoustic separators according to certain embodiments include an acoustic field generator soldered to a flow channel having a fluid flow path where the acoustic field generator produces an acoustic field in the fluid flow path. Methods of soldering an acoustic field generator to a flow channel having a fluid flow path are also described. Methods for acoustically separating components of a sample as well as systems and kits, including one or more acoustic separators, suitable for practicing the subject methods are also provided.