Rotationally actuated magnetic bead trap and mixer

US9527050B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force · US

Inventors

• Peter B. Howell, JR. · Gaithersburg, US
• Richard Eitel · Everett, US
• Joel P. Golden · Fort Washington, US
• Frances S. Ligler · Potomac, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 28, 2011
• Grant date: Dec 27, 2016
• Expiry date: Sep 28, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B01F27/50
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A magnetic bead trap-and-mixer includes a channel having openings at opposing ends, and a rotor adjacent to the channel and comprising a permanent magnet, wherein the rotor is adapted to apply a magnetic field to the channel of sufficient strength to direct the movement of magnetic beads therein. In aspects, the channel is straight and/or has narrowed end. In further aspects, the rotor generates in the channel areas of areas of strong magnetic fields alternating with areas of very weak magnetic fields and the strong magnetic fields extend entirely across the channel.