Synchronized Rotating Detector for Microfluidic Bio-molecule Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
In microfluidic devices used for bio-molecule testing, the need to move objects to a detection region for analysis by detectors introduces additional time delays, as the objects and detectors are not initially aligned and must be manually positioned for detection.
Innovation Solution
A test apparatus and control method where the microfluidic device and rotating detector member are synchronized to rotate at the same speed, ensuring continuous detection of biochemical reactions without positional errors, using a rotation driving unit, controller, and power supply methods like slip rings and wireless power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the detector is stationary while the microfluidic device rotates, then the detection system is simpler, but additional time is required to move the object to the detection region
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is mounted on a rotating member that rotates together with the microfluidic device on the same rotary shaft. This merging of the detector's motion with the device's rotation eliminates the need for separate positioning mechanisms and removes time delays associated with moving objects to a stationary detection region.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system transitions from a stationary detector to a dynamically rotating detector that moves synchronously with the microfluidic device. This dynamic configuration allows the detector to maintain continuous alignment with the objects being tested, enabling real-time detection without positional errors.
2Productivity
If the detector rotates with the microfluidic device, then real-time detection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the microfluidic device and the detector are mounted on the same rotary shaft, merging their rotation into a single synchronized motion. This eliminates the need for complex independent control mechanisms and reduces overall system complexity while achieving real-time detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary shaft serves multiple functions: it rotates the microfluidic device for sample processing and simultaneously rotates the detector for continuous detection. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate drive mechanisms needed, simplifying the overall system.
3Measurement precision
If manual positioning is used to align detector with objects, then initial alignment is possible, but time delays and positional errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The detector and microfluidic device rotate continuously together at the same speed, maintaining continuous alignment between the detector and the objects being tested. This eliminates the intermittent positioning required in manual systems, ensuring continuous real-time detection without time delays or positional errors.
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
Enables real-time detection of bio-molecules by maintaining alignment between detectors and objects, reducing time delays and positional errors, thereby enhancing the efficiency of biochemical analysis in microfluidic devices.
Implementation Method 1
The power generation device may include coils mounted on the rotary shaft and fixed magnets surrounding the coils
Data Source
AI summary
A test apparatus in which detectors and objects to be detected are rotated at the same speed, and a control method thereof are provided. The test apparatus includes a rotation driving unit that includes a rotary shaft; a microfluidic device that is loaded on the rotary shaft and includes at least one object to be detected; a rotating member that is mounted on the rotary shaft and includes at least one detector to detect the objects of the microfluidic device; and a controller configured to operate the rotation driving unit such that the microfluidic device and the rotating member are rotated at the same speed on the rotary shaft.