Apparatus, device and method for generating magnetic field gradient
US7015780B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 25, 2002 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B26/0841
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A monolithic or dual monolithic magnetic device or apparatus having an array of formations such as protruding or raised nubs wherein adjacent nubs have the same or opposite polarity to produce a high magnetic field gradient in the vicinity of the nubs is described. In lieu of nubs, the use of a magnetic device with thru-holes, blind holes, filled holes, or iron flux concentrators is also detailed, wherein all embodiments result in regions of high magnetic field gradient. Apparatus and methods for spot-poling a magnet array are also illustrated.An application of an array of MEMS actuators using the magnets of the present invention to produce high field gradient at precise locations is described. A further application of a biochemical separation unit containing a magnetic array and micro-fluidic channels for separating out magnetic particles tagged with bio-specific molecules for sensing the presence of a disease or specified chemicals is also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.