Removable SPR Sample Holder Prism Retainer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional SPR and PWR systems require complex and time-consuming cleaning processes due to the use of optical glue and fixed sample compartments, leading to inefficiencies and potential cross-contamination, especially in high-throughput applications.
Innovation Solution
A removable sample holder device for SPR and PWR systems that eliminates the need for optical glue and features a sample injection port and prism retainer, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and replacement, thereby simplifying the operational workflow and reducing maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical glue is used to attach the prism and sensor chip, then the optical coupling is improved, but the cleaning process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the optical glue from the system by using a mechanical retention mechanism instead. The prism and sensor chip are held in place through physical engagement features (retention grooves, clamping mechanisms) rather than adhesive bonding, allowing for easy removal and cleaning without chemical solvents or complex degradation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into separable components (prism assembly, sensor chip, sample compartment) that can be independently removed and cleaned. This modular design allows each component to be detached without affecting others, simplifying the cleaning process while maintaining optical coupling integrity during operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fixed sample compartments are used, then the structural stability is improved, but the cross-contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample compartment transitions from a fixed, permanent structure to a dynamic, removable component. The compartment can be detached, cleaned, or replaced as needed, providing both structural stability during operation and the flexibility to eliminate cross-contamination through regular maintenance and component replacement.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If complex cleaning processes are implemented, then the cross-contamination is reduced, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable or easily replaceable sample compartments and sensor chips that can be discarded after a single use or quickly replaced without extensive cleaning. This eliminates the time-consuming cleaning process while preventing cross-contamination, as each new component is pristine and ready for use.
4Strength
If optical glue is used, then the assembly strength is improved, but the ease of disassembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism (optical glue) with a mechanical retention system. Features such as retention grooves, snap-fit mechanisms, or clamping structures provide sufficient holding strength during operation while allowing simple manual disassembly without requiring chemical solvents or complex degradation processes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a removable sample holder for analytical instruments or apparatuses that utilizes a prism. For example, sample devices of the invention can be used in a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, a plasmon-waveguided resonance (PWR) spectroscopic device, as well as other spectroscopy devices known to one skilled in the art that uses a prism. The present invention is also directed to methods for using the same. The sample holder device (10) includes a sample injection port (100), a prism retainer (200) and a sample compartment base (300). Unlike conventional SPR and PWR instruments that have a built-in sample chamber, the sample holder device (10) of the present invention provides a separate sample chamber that can be readily removed and replaced. Furthermore, by allowing ready replacement of the prism the sample holder device (10) of the invention allows user to fabricate custom sensor chips.