Tapered Measurement Portion for Cell Potential Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular electric potential measuring containers face challenges in obtaining accurate measurement results due to difficulties in bringing cells into contact with fine measurement electrodes.
Innovation Solution
A cellular electric potential measuring container with a resin container body and an electrode substrate, featuring tapered measurement portions and multiple retaining means to ensure accurate exposure of measurement electrodes, allowing cells to move by their own weight and come into contact with the electrodes, while the electrode substrate is attached to the container body to form fluid-tight wells for precise measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fine measurement electrode is used to improve measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but it becomes difficult to bring cells into contact with the electrode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tapered measurement portion that extends vertically from the electrode surface toward the cell culture space. This dimensional extension transforms a 2D electrode contact problem into a 3D gradient structure, allowing cells to contact the electrode at various heights along the taper rather than requiring direct contact with the fine electrode tip alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered measurement portion is pre-formed as an integral structure with the electrode substrate before cell culture begins. This preliminary structural preparation creates a gradient pathway that guides cells toward the electrode, eliminating the need for manual positioning or complex contact procedures during the measurement process.
2Measurement precision
If the measurement portion is made fine to improve measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but the structure becomes more difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode substrate is divided into distinct functional regions: the fine measurement electrode tip for precise measurement, the tapered measurement portion for structural support and cell guidance, and the base substrate for mounting. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the fine electrode can be manufactured with high precision techniques while the tapered portion can be formed using more robust molding or machining methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement portion employs a tapered geometry that gradually transitions from a fine tip to a broader base. This parameter change in cross-sectional area along the length of the measurement portion allows the tip to maintain fine dimensions for precision while the base provides sufficient structural integrity for manufacturing and handling, resolving the conflict between fineness and manufacturability.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple retaining means are added to secure the measurement portion, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining means are merged with the electrode substrate as an integrated structure rather than being separate components. The retaining protrusions or anchoring features are formed directly on the substrate during the same manufacturing process, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise positioning of the measurement portion.
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 easy and accurate measurement of cellular electric potential, facilitating rapid drug screening and contributing to new drug development by ensuring consistent and reliable contact between cells and measurement electrodes.
Implementation Method 1
allowing cells to move by their own weight and come into contact with the electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
A cellular electric potential measuring container includes a container body and an electrode substrate, the electrode substrate being attached to a lower end of the container body so as to form a plurality of wells. The container body is made from resin and comprises a plurality of tubular portions whose upper and lower ends are open, each of the tubular portions comprises in an inner cavity a measurement portion tapered toward the lower end and having a measurement hole at the lower end, and further on an inner wall at least two retaining means retaining the measurement portion. The electrode substrate comprises a substrate body, with a plurality of measurement electrodes and a plurality of reference electrodes being disposed on one surface of the substrate body. The container body is attached to the surface of the substrate body on which the measurement electrodes and the reference electrodes are disposed, such that the measurement electrodes are exposed through the measurement holes.