Magnetic separation apparatus and methods
US6660159B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 24, 2001 |
| Grant date | Dec 9, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 24, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/25375
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Apparatuses and methods for separating, immobilizing, and quantifying biological substances from within a fluid medium. Biological substances are observed by employing a vessel having a chamber therein, the vessel comprising a transparent collection wall. A high internal gradient magnetic capture structure may be on the transparent collection wall, magnets create an externally-applied force for transporting magnetically responsive material toward the transparent collection wall. The magnetic capture structure comprises a plurality of ferromagnetic members and has a uniform or non-nonuniform spacing between adjacent members. There may be electrical conductor means supported on the transparent collection wall for enabling electrical manipulation of the biological substances. The chamber has one compartment or a plurality of compartments with differing heights. The chamber may include a porous wall. The invention is also useful in conducting quantitative analysis and sample preparation in conjunction with automated cell enumeration techniques.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.