High speed particle sorter using a field emission electrode
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for analyzing and sorting small particles on the basis of preselected parameters or combinations of pre-selected parameters comprising:
- generating means for segregating one of said particles in at least one liquid droplet;
sensing means downstream of said generating means for sensing the presence or absence of said preselected parameter of said particle;
flow means for passing said particles from said generating means to close proximity of an electrode, said electrode being located downstream of said sensing means;
discrimination means responsive to said sensing means and functionally connected to said electrode for selectively establishing a positive high potential electric field on said electrode when said particle is closely adjacent said electrode if said sensed particle displays said pre-selected parameter; and
collection means located downstream of said electrode for receiving said particles.
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Abstract
The invention sorts small particles by subjecting them to a charging and motivating field produced by a single positively charged electrode. The magnitude of the charge placed on the particle passing the electrode is a function of the observed particle parameters. Once the particle has been deflected in accordance with its observed parameter, the particle may be collected for further study.
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Citations
13 Claims
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1. An apparatus for analyzing and sorting small particles on the basis of preselected parameters or combinations of pre-selected parameters comprising:
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generating means for segregating one of said particles in at least one liquid droplet; sensing means downstream of said generating means for sensing the presence or absence of said preselected parameter of said particle; flow means for passing said particles from said generating means to close proximity of an electrode, said electrode being located downstream of said sensing means; discrimination means responsive to said sensing means and functionally connected to said electrode for selectively establishing a positive high potential electric field on said electrode when said particle is closely adjacent said electrode if said sensed particle displays said pre-selected parameter; and collection means located downstream of said electrode for receiving said particles. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method of sorting small particles according to pre-selected parameter comprising:
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sensing said particles to measure said parameter of each particle; sequentially moving each said particle to near at least one electrode; placing a high positive electric potential on said electrode relative to said particle when each said sensed particle is near it if said particle displays said pre-selected parameter; and collecting said particles downstream from said field emission cathode. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13)
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Specification