Austin Echelmeier

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Austin Echelmeier**

Introduction

Austin Echelmeier is a distinguished inventor based in Tempe, Arizona, recognized for his innovative contributions to the field of crystallography. With a total of five patents to his name, Echelmeier exemplifies the spirit of technological advancement through his pioneering concepts and designs.

Latest Patents

Among his notable inventions, Echelmeier has developed a groundbreaking device for tuning microfluidic droplet frequency and synchronizing phase for serial femtosecond crystallography. This innovative device addresses the significant waste of crystal material traditionally associated with continuous flow injections. The technology features a micrometer-scale, 3-D printed water-in-oil droplet generator equipped with an oil phase inlet channel, an aqueous phase inlet channel, and a droplet flow outlet channel, complemented by two embedded non-contact electrodes.

The internal junction connecting the inlet and outlet channels is strategically designed to enhance functionality. By applying voltage across the electrodes, the device effectively generates water-in-oil droplets and regulates the rate of droplet production or triggers phase shifts within the droplets. An external trigger is utilized to produce droplets in a manner that aligns with the frequency of an X-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL) for enhanced droplet detection. This synchronization allows for more efficient crystal detection during experiments, including coupling with Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SFX) techniques.

Career Highlights

Echelmeier’s impressive career has included influential roles at prominent institutions, including Arizona State University and the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University. His work not only showcases his individual creativity but also pushes the boundaries of existing technologies in his field.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Echelmeier has collaborated with talented professionals such as Alexandra Ros and Daihyun Kim. These partnerships have contributed significantly to his innovative endeavors, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and expertise that drives forward the advancement of crystallography technologies.

Conclusion

Austin Echelmeier is a testament to the impact of innovation within the scientific community. His latest patent developments reflect a commitment to reducing material waste and enhancing the efficiency of crystallography techniques. As he continues to refine his inventions, Echelmeier's contributions will undoubtedly influence future practices and innovations in the field.