Symmetrical Ultrasonic Horn for Uniform Multi-Sample Sonication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic sample preparation technologies are limited by the inability to process multiple samples simultaneously with uniform acoustic energy distribution, leading to inefficiencies in processing time and cost due to serial processing and non-uniform energy emission.
Innovation Solution
A symmetrical ultrasonic horn with a cylindrical design and symmetrical features that ensure uniform acoustic energy distribution across its entire face, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional single-focus transducers are used for ultrasonic sample preparation, then processing can be performed with simple device structure, but only one sample can be processed at a time leading to prolonged processing time and increased labor costs
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic horn face is divided into multiple focal zones, each capable of independently focusing acoustic energy on a specific sample well. This segmentation allows simultaneous processing of multiple samples (e.g., 96-well plates) without requiring sequential processing, thereby dramatically increasing throughput while maintaining focused energy delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point focus in three-dimensional space to a distributed array of focal zones across the horn face. By utilizing the two-dimensional surface area of the horn, multiple focal points are created simultaneously, enabling parallel processing of multiple samples without increasing the temporal dimension (processing time).
2Productivity
If multiple samples are sonicated simultaneously with non-uniform acoustic field, then processing time is reduced, but uniformity of acoustic energy distribution across samples deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the ultrasonic horn face are designed with locally optimized properties to create distinct focal zones. Each focal zone is tailored to deliver uniform acoustic energy to its corresponding sample well, accounting for variations in sample position and vessel geometry. This local optimization ensures that each sample receives consistent energy regardless of its location on the plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic field parameters (focus depth, focal size, intensity distribution) are varied across different regions of the horn face to compensate for acoustic scattering effects from sample vessels. By adjusting these parameters locally, the system maintains uniform energy delivery across all samples despite variations in well depth, plate material, and sample contents.
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 symmetrical horn achieves consistent and uniform acoustic energy emission, reducing processing time and costs by enabling simultaneous processing of multiple samples with uniform energy distribution.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic horn having a face adapted to impart ultrasonic energy to samples
Implementation Method 2
the output end face emitting the acoustic energy in a consistent and uniform distribution over substantially the entire face thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic horn includes a generally cylindrical input section having an energy input end adapted to be operably connected to an ultrasonic energy source, the energy input end comprising a generally flat surface, a generally cylindrical output section having a free end defining an energy output end, comprising a generally flat surface that is generally parallel to the generally flat surface of the energy input end, and a middle section disposed between the input and output sections, the middle section comprising at least one scallop defined by a side wall having a continuous curve. The input, middle and output sections together define a total horn length, and the ultrasonic horn is substantially symmetrical about an imaginary plane that bisects the total horn length and that is substantially parallel to the generally flat surface of the energy input end and the generally flat surface of the energy output end.