Fluidic devices and methods

Abstract

A microfluidic system for fluid transport is provided. The microfluidic system includes a microfluidic device. The microfluidic device includes an inlet body comprising an inlet. The microfluidic device includes a base supporting the inlet body. The base includes a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The base includes one or more sensors formed on the surface of the channel, or one or more sensors formed in one or more grooves formed in the surface of the channel. The channel is configured to facilitate fluid flow. The fluid includes multiple beads. The fluid includes multiple suspension units. The inlet is configured to receive fluid at an inlet port. The inlet is configured to output fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to provide substantially uniform fluid flow over a substantial portion of the channel in a horizontal dimension. The device is configured to compensate for edge effects that would otherwise exist. Related methods, devices, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 046,500, filed June 30, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for fluid transport. In particular, this disclosure relates to ultra-high flux microfluidic devices and related methods. Background Technology

[0004] Developed microfluidic devices and methods involve multi-channel or single-channel ports. In both designs, the velocity distribution of the fluid through the channels of the respective device varies in the dominant direction of flow, resulting in a non-uniform velocity distribution. This non-uniform velocity distribution degrades the accuracy of sensors connected to the device in an undesirable manner and hinders flux. Additionally, in some developed microfluidic devices, the active sensor region of the device can be separated from the inlet and outlet structures by a distance on the order of millimeters (approximately 12 mm in one exemplary device) along the channel length direction. Furthermore, in some developed microfluidic devices, the area of ​​the substrate available for the sensor region is significantly reduced, partly due to the relatively large footprint of the inlet and outlet structures or branch channel networks.

[0005] The inventors have developed an improvement to the microfluidic device and method that at least overcomes the aforementioned problems of related technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One or more of the following features may be included in any feasible combination.

[0007] An apparatus for fluid transport is provided. The apparatus includes an inlet body comprising an inlet. The apparatus includes a base supporting the inlet body, the base including a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The apparatus includes an outlet body comprising an outlet, the base supporting the outlet body, the outlet being in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to receive fluid at an inlet port. The inlet is configured to discharge fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to provide substantially uniform flow of fluid over at least one dimension of a substantial portion of the channel.

[0008] The at least one dimension can be either a vertical plane or a horizontal plane.

[0009] The inlet, channel, and outlet can be configured to provide substantially uniform flow of fluid over the substantial portion of the horizontal plane of the channel.

[0010] The inlet, channel, and outlet can be configured to provide a substantially uniform flow of fluid through the substantial portion of the cubic region within the channel.

[0011] The device can be a microfluidic device. The channel can be a microfluidic channel.

[0012] The inlet body, base, and outlet body can form a unitary body.

[0013] An inlet can be a single inlet of the device. A passage can be a single passage of the device. An outlet can be a single outlet of the device.

[0014] The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet port to the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel entrance can be approximately 1 to approximately 7.5.

[0015] The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet port to the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening can be approximately 1 to approximately 50.

[0016] The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of the channel can be approximately 6.67 to approximately 1.

[0017] The ratio of the depth of the inlet port to the depth at the end of the inlet can be approximately 1 to approximately 2.

[0018] The ratio of the depth of the inlet port to the depth at the end of the inlet and the height at or near the inlet port can be approximately 1 to approximately 2 to approximately 3.

[0019] The ratio of the height of the passage to the depth of the entrance port and the depth at the end of the entrance to the height at or near the entrance port can be approximately 1 to 4 to 8 to 12.

[0020] The ratio of the width to the depth of an opening in a horizontal plane can be approximately 25 to approximately 1.

[0021] The ratio of the width to the height of a passage in a vertical plane can be approximately 180 to approximately 1.

[0022] The cross-sectional shape of at least one side of the entrance and / or exit in the horizontal plane may be a bow shape or a venturi shape, and the at least one side is away from the passage.

[0023] The sides of the entrance and / or exit may have a bow shape or a venturi shape in the horizontal plane.

[0024] The cross-sectional shape of the inlet and / or outlet in the vertical plane can be arc-shaped or bracket-shaped.

[0025] The cross-sectional shape of the inlet port in the horizontal plane can be rectangular.

[0026] The base may include a parallel plate structure.

[0027] The device can be configured to provide substantially uniform flow of fluid at volumetric flow rates between about 1 μL / sec and about 500 μL / sec.

[0028] Additionally, a microfluidic system for fluid delivery is provided. The microfluidic system includes a microfluidic device. The microfluidic device includes an inlet body comprising an inlet. The microfluidic device includes a base supporting the inlet body. The base includes a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The microfluidic device includes one or more sensors formed on the surface of the channel, or one or more sensors formed in one or more grooves formed in the surface of the channel. The microfluidic device includes an outlet body comprising an outlet, the base supporting the outlet body, the outlet being in fluid communication with the channel.

[0029] The channel can be configured to facilitate fluid flow. The fluid may include, for example, multiple solid beads suspended therein. The fluid may include multiple suspended units. The inlet can be configured to receive fluid at an inlet port. The inlet can be configured to output fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet can be configured to provide substantially uniform fluid flow across a substantial portion of the channel's horizontal dimension. The device can be configured to compensate for edge effects that would otherwise exist.

[0030] Each of the multiple beads can have a maximum dimension, such as width or diameter, from about 10 μm to about 160 μm.

[0031] Each of the multiple levitation units can have a maximum dimension, such as width or diameter, of about 10 μm to about 50 μm.

[0032] Approximately 150,000 sensors can be formed on the surface of the channel, or approximately 150,000 sensors can be formed in approximately 150,000 grooves formed in the surface of the channel.

[0033] The base may include a parallel plate structure.

[0034] Microfluidic devices can be configured to provide substantially uniform flow of fluid at volumetric flow rates between about 1 μL / sec and about 500 μL / sec.

[0035] A method for fluid transport is provided. The method includes providing an inlet body comprising an inlet. The method includes providing a base supporting the inlet body, the base including a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The method includes providing an outlet body comprising an outlet, the base supporting the outlet body, the outlet being in fluid communication with the channel. The method includes receiving fluid at an inlet port of the inlet. The method includes discharging fluid through an opening in the inlet in fluid communication with the channel. The method includes providing substantially uniform flow of fluid over a substantial portion of the horizontal dimension of the channel using the inlet.

[0036] This method may include providing substantially uniform flow of fluid over a substantial portion of the horizontal plane of the channel using an inlet, a channel, and an outlet.

[0037] The base may include a parallel plate structure.

[0038] The method may include providing substantially uniform flow of fluid at volumetric flow rates between about 1 μL / sec and about 500 μL / sec using inlets, channels, and outlets.

[0039] An apparatus for fluid transport is provided. The apparatus includes an inlet body comprising an inlet. The apparatus includes a base supporting the inlet body, the base including a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The inlet is configured to receive fluid at an inlet port. The inlet is configured to discharge fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to provide substantially uniform flow of fluid over a substantial portion of at least one dimension of the channel.

[0040] A microfluidic system for fluid transport is provided. The microfluidic system includes a microfluidic device. The microfluidic device includes an inlet body comprising an inlet. The microfluidic device includes a base supporting the inlet body. The base includes a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The base includes one or more sensors formed on the surface of the channel, or one or more sensors formed in one or more grooves formed in the surface of the channel. The channel is configured to facilitate fluid flow. The fluid comprises multiple beads. The fluid comprises multiple suspended units. The inlet is configured to receive fluid at an inlet port. The inlet is configured to output fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to provide substantially uniform fluid flow over a substantial portion of the horizontal dimension of the channel. The device is configured to compensate for edge effects that would otherwise exist.

[0041] These and other capabilities of the disclosed subject matter will be more fully understood after reading the following figures, detailed description and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0042] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0043] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view of an alpha-type (α-type) microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a detailed perspective wireframe view of the inlet body and inlet or outlet body and outlet of an α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the fluid flow regions in the inlet, inlet transition, channel, outlet transition, and outlet of an α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] Figure 4A It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid (e.g., water) flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 0.1 microliters per second (μL / sec) at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0047] Figure 4B It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid (e.g., water) flowing at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] Figure 5 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 10 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] Figure 6 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Figure 8 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 500 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] Figure 9 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 1,000 μL / sec (or about 1 mL / sec) at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the microfluidic device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 10 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 5,000 μL / sec (or about 10 mL / sec) at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the microfluidic device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view of a beta-type (β-type) microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0055] Figure 12 This is a detailed perspective wireframe view of the inlet body and inlet or outlet body and outlet of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the fluid flow regions in the inlet, inlet transition, channel, outlet transition, and outlet of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] Figure 14 It is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] Figure 15 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] Figure 16A It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Figure 16B It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 10 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a β-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Figure 17 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 10 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a gamma-type (γ-type) microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 18 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view of a delta-type (δ-type) microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0063] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating a process according to an exemplary implementation method;

[0064] Figure 20 It is a three-dimensional diagram of a multi-channel microfluidic device based on related technologies;

[0065] Figure 21 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1,000 μL / sec in a conventional channel of a single-channel microfluidic device according to the prior art.

[0066] Figure 22A It is a cross-section that highlights the velocity of the fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XY plane at the first point of the channel passing through the device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0067] Figure 22B yes Figure 22A The enlarged central portion at the bottom;

[0068] Figure 23 It is a magnified portion of the cross section, which highlights the velocity of the fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XY plane at the second point of the channel passing through the device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0069] Figure 24 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with a half-scale (50%) inlet / outlet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Figure 25 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 mL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with a half-scale (50%) inlet / outlet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0071] Figure 26It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with a three-quarters (75%) inlet / outlet ratio according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] Figure 27 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with an inlet / outlet ratio of nine-tenths (90%) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] Figure 28 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 mL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with an inlet / outlet ratio of nine-tenths (90%) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] Figure 29 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 2 mL / sec in the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device having a full-scale (100%) inlet / outlet, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] Figure 30 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with a three-quarters (150%) inlet / outlet ratio, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] Figure 31 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 100 times that of water flowing at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] Figure 32 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 100 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 10 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] Figure 33It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 100 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] Figure 34 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a microfluidic device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 0.1 μL / sec.

[0080] Figure 35 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of a microfluidic device of type α according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 100 μL / sec.

[0081] Figure 36 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 2 mL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] Figure 37 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 5 mL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] Figure 38 It is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of about 10 mL / sec at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of the α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0084] Figure 39 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an alternative α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment, having an inlet similar to other embodiments but with a relatively large volume and an unrestricted outlet; and

[0085] Figure 40This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an alternative α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and should not be considered as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the structures, systems, apparatuses, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims. Detailed Implementation

[0087] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of a multichannel microfluidic device 700. The multichannel microfluidic device 700 includes an inlet body 705, a base 750, an outlet body 795, multiple inlets (i.e., 800a, 800b, 800… and 800n), multiple outlets (i.e., 800a', 800b', 800'… and 800n'), and multiple channels 890 in the base 750, each channel corresponding to multiple inlets 800 and outlets 800' respectively. The implementation of multiple inlets 800 and outlets 800' (or branched channels) can present challenges in applications where the channels are not defined by a single material (e.g., a silicone elastomer casting bonded to glass), which is common in research laboratories. Furthermore, multiple inlets 800 and multiple outlets 800' can occupy a large portion of the total area of ​​the device available for testing. Separations between channels can lead to a loss of surface space, and flow rates may vary from the center to the edge of each channel.

[0088] Figure 21 This is a top-view contour view highlighting the velocity of a fluid (e.g., water) flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1,000 μL / sec (approximately 1 mL / sec) in the XZ plane of the channel 1090 of the wide single-channel microfluidic device 900. The single-channel microfluidic device 900 includes an inlet body 905, a base 950, an outlet body 995, a single inlet 1000 within the inlet body 905, a single outlet 1000' within the outlet body 995, and a channel 1090 within the base 950. The single inlet 1000 is connected to the channel 1090, and the channel 1090 is connected to the single outlet 1000'. The single inlet 1000, the channel 1090, and the single outlet 1000' allow fluid to flow through the single-channel microfluidic device 900. As used throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, for example... Figure 21As shown, at approximately the center 1095 of channel 1090, the X direction corresponds to the width of the device (vertical to horizontal on the paper), the Y direction corresponds to the height of the device (entering and exiting the paper), and the Z direction corresponds to the main direction of flow (left to right on the paper). Approximately the center 1095 appears in the XZ plane of channel 1090.

[0089] Typically, fluid enters the single-channel microfluidic device 900 through a single inlet 1000, falls primarily downwards in the negative Y direction into the channel 1090, flows generally through the channel 1090 in the Z direction, flows into a single outlet 1000', and rises primarily upwards in the Y direction out of the single-channel microfluidic device 900. However, due to the single inlet 1000 and the single outlet 1000', a substantial portion of the fluid, especially near the single inlet 1000 and the single outlet 1000', propagates in both the positive and negative X directions. The use of the single inlet 1000 and the single outlet 1000' results in a non-uniform velocity distribution of the fluid flowing through the channel 1090.

[0090] In this example, the volumetric flow rate is set to approximately 1 mL / sec (roughly the volume occupied by the test channel, i.e., approximately 0.675 mL per second). The fluid velocity in the Z direction is relatively high below or near the single inlet 1000 and the single outlet 1000', on the order of approximately 0.4444 mm / sec (displayed as "4.444444e-01") to approximately 0.5000 mm / sec (displayed as "5.000000e-01"); while the fluid velocity in the Z direction along the edge of the channel 1090 is relatively low, on the order of approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.05556 mm / sec. As shown in the figure, the fluid velocity in the Z direction between the individual inlet 1000 and the individual outlet 1000' within channel 1090 varies in increments between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 0.5000 mm / sec, specifically approximately 0.05556 mm / sec, approximately 0.1111 mm / sec, approximately 0.1667 mm / sec, approximately 0.2222 mm / sec, approximately 0.2778 mm / sec, approximately 0.3333 mm / sec, approximately 0.3889 mm / sec, and approximately 0.4444 mm / sec. The fluid velocity in the Z direction near the center 1095 of channel 1090 is on the order of approximately 0.05556 mm / sec to approximately 0.1111 mm / sec. While a device with this design can be used to analyze fluids, the effective usable area of ​​channel 1090 is significantly reduced, especially when the analysis is sensitive to flow velocity, shear stress, or medium exchange. Furthermore, if sensors are placed around the periphery of channel 1090 and near a single inlet 1000 or a single outlet 1000', the non-uniform velocity in the Z-direction will reduce the accuracy of the sensors in the single-channel microfluidic device 900. Moreover, even if sensors are placed only in a region of channel 1090 with Z-direction velocities on the order of approximately 0.05556 mm / sec to approximately 0.1111 mm / sec, the velocity in the Z-direction may still be relatively non-uniform within that region, and the accuracy of the sensors in the single-channel microfluidic device 900 will also be reduced. In experimental use, the relatively high velocity (and shear stress) at the inlet may damage the live element.

[0091] A microfluidic device including an inlet and an outlet is provided. The microfluidic device can be configured to minimize unused potential active sensor regions, maximize uniform flow regions within active sensor regions, counteract frictional effects at the periphery of channels within active sensor regions, and / or modify flow through inlet and outlet structures to facilitate uniform flow within channels of active sensor regions.

[0092] Both the inlet and outlet can form openings for the primary vertical flow of fluid in the Y direction. Both the inlet and outlet can be connected to corresponding ends of the channel for the primary horizontal flow of fluid in the Z direction. The channel can be configured with sensors and / or recesses for analysis. The device according to this disclosure can be applied to channels having one or more sensors at the bottom of one or more recesses and / or on relatively flat surfaces at the bottom and / or top of the channel. Both the inlet and outlet conduits can vary in length in the Y direction (vertical direction in the YZ plane) and depth in the Z direction (horizontal direction in the XZ plane). The inlet conduit geometry can be configured to provide the fluid with varying resistance (viscous resistance) along the XY plane before entering the channel. The outlet conduit geometry can be configured in the same way to have varying resistance to receive fluid exiting the channel along the width in the X direction at the bottom of the outlet. Both the inlet and outlet geometries can be configured to minimize changes in the planar (Z direction) velocity distribution as the fluid enters the channel of the device. The inlet geometry can be configured to smooth the planar velocity distribution of the fluid. The inlet geometry can be configured to generate substantially uniform shear stress on the planar walls and surfaces of the channel under laminar flow conditions. Various exemplary embodiments of microfluidic devices can circumvent the need for branched bifurcated channels, utilizing developed microfluidic devices to configure branched bifurcated channels to allow fluid to flow uniformly across the width of the channel.

[0093] Furthermore, the relatively short length of the inlet relative to the channel (in the Y direction) can be configured to minimize the deposition of particles (e.g., beads and cells) in the inlet at sufficiently fast laminar flow velocities. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the beads have a maximum dimension of about 25 μm to about 50 μm, while the suspended cells have a maximum dimension of about 10 μm to about 30 μm.

[0094] Furthermore, the inlet and outlet geometries of the microfluidic device of the present invention can be configured to promote efficient manufacturability. The inlet and outlet geometries can be configured to generate a positive draft angle in the cavity, which provides varying resistance along the XY plane. The inlet and outlet conduit geometries can be configured to facilitate large-scale manufacturing via injection molding. The inlet and outlet can be injection molded. The inlet and outlet can be formed as one or more top components separate from the channel. Alternatively, the inlet and outlet can be formed together with a base or substrate surrounding the channel. The inlet, outlet, and the channel between them can be integrally formed by injection molding.

[0095] In some exemplary embodiments, a single-channel microfluidic device can be constructed with a relatively large sensor region within the channel, having a single inlet and a single outlet (as opposed to multiple inlets and outlets), each with a relatively minimal footprint relative to the sensor region, and exhibiting relatively uniform flow along the width (X direction) of the channel. As mentioned above, some previously developed designs use branched, bifurcated channel networks to achieve a uniform planar velocity distribution, a design that occupies a relatively large portion of the total flat surface and is inherently difficult to manufacture. Furthermore, the heights of the developed inlets and outlets are mostly fixed to the upper part of the channel and are relatively short, resulting in undesirable deposition of heavy particles (e.g., beads and cells) in the inlets and outlets of the developed devices, particularly in regions with relatively slow flow rates. However, the lengths (in the Y direction) of the inlets and outlets according to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can be approximately an order of magnitude longer than the height of the channel, and the lengths (in the Y direction) of the inlets and outlets correspond to the direction of movement of deposits in the fluid. Furthermore, the inlet and outlet conduit geometries of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are configured to generate sufficient flow throughout the inlet and outlet, thereby allowing particles to remain suspended and reach surface shear forces high enough to facilitate particle flow through the channels of the device.

[0096] As described above, in some developed microfluidic devices, the distance in the Z direction between the inlet and outlet structures and the sensor region is on the order of approximately 12 mm, and only about 50,000 grooves are provided in the sensor region. However, in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, where the inlet and outlet have a relatively small footprint, a large number of grooves can be provided in a sensor region of equivalent size, for example, on the order of approximately 150,000 grooves and / or approximately 150,000 sensors.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, the channel can be a parallel plate microfluidic channel. The properties of the flow through the channel can be quantified using the following flow equation. The volumetric flow rate of the parallel plate microfluidic channel can be expressed as equation (1):

[0098] (1)

[0099] In this equation, h = height (Y direction), w = width (X direction), L = length (Z direction), μ = viscosity. P = pressure difference, R = resistance, and Q = volumetric flow rate. Note that in a parallel plate structure, the width (in the X direction) is significantly greater than the length (in the Y direction), i.e., w >> h.

[0100] The flow principle of the parallel plate microfluidic channel can be expressed as equation (2):

[0101] (2)

[0102] The flow resistance (or viscous resistance) relationship of the parallel plate microfluidic channel can be expressed as equation (3):

[0103] (3)

[0104] In other words, drag is strongly dependent on length (in the Y direction). Specifically, drag is inversely proportional to the cube of length (in the Y direction).

[0105] Any structure that fulfills the functions and purposes disclosed herein is within the scope of this disclosure. Exemplary embodiments that fulfill the functions and purposes disclosed herein are provided in detail below; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Although the exemplary embodiments herein are directed to microfluidic applications, the disclosed constructions can be scaled up or down to any suitable scale. Additionally, the exemplary embodiments herein can provide uniform flow of fluid through and / or on the base or horizontal structure of any device. For example, exemplary embodiments herein can provide uniform flow of fluid through and / or on the region used to induce a catalytic reaction. In some exemplary embodiments, the device can be configured to facilitate uniform flow of fluid through and / or on the catalyst base.

[0106] α-type microfluidic devices

[0107] Figure 1 This is a perspective wireframe view of an α-type microfluidic device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Note the convention used herein: reference numerals beginning with odd numbers (e.g., 100, 150, etc.) denote structures, while reference numerals beginning with even numbers (e.g., 200, 290, etc.) denote openings or pores in the structure (this convention does not apply to process 1100). The α-type microfluidic device 100 may include an inlet body 105, a base 150, and an outlet body 195. An inlet 200 may be formed in the inlet body 105. The inlet body 105 may be substantially similar to the outlet body 195. Alternatively, the inlet body 105 may vary compared to the outlet body 195. The inlet body 105, the base 150, and the outlet body 195 may be integral or separate components. In some exemplary embodiments, the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195 are interchangeable. In some exemplary embodiments, the inlet 200 and the outlet 200' are substantially the same and interchangeable, only reversed in orientation. The term “inlet” is not intended to be limiting and may indicate the direction of fluid flow in some exemplary embodiments; reversing the direction of fluid flow may result in the inversion of the terms “inlet” and “outlet”.

[0108] An outlet 200' may be formed in an outlet body 195. An inlet 200 may be substantially similar to an outlet 200'. Alternatively, an inlet 200 may vary from an outlet 200'. A channel 290 may provide a fluid connection between the inlet 200 and the outlet 200'. An inlet transition 285 may be provided between the bottom opening of the inlet 200 and the inlet side of the channel 290. An outlet transition 295 may be provided between the outlet side of the channel 290 and the bottom opening of the outlet 200'.

[0109] In some exemplary embodiments, for microfluidic applications, the channel may have a parallel plate structure, and the height of the channel 290 in the Y direction may be uniform and on the order of about 0.05 mm to about 0.50 mm. The channel 290 may have a rectangular prism shape. Specifically, the height of the channel 290 in the Y direction may be on the order of about 0.25 mm. In some exemplary embodiments, the height of the channel 290 in the Y direction is reduced to minimize the volume loss of the transported fluid through the α-type microfluidic device 100. In some exemplary embodiments, the height of the channel 290 in the Y direction is optimized to account for the shear stress on the surface of the channel 290. Under a constant pressure difference, the shear stress on the surface of the channel 290 is a direct linear function of the height of the channel 290. For example, for beads with a maximum dimension of about 25-50 μm and suspended units with a maximum dimension of about 10-20 μm, when a fluid, such as oil, is introduced into the fluid (e.g., water) to isolate the groove array, a height of about 0.25 mm for the channel 290 is observed to produce sufficient and desired shear stress. In some exemplary embodiments, the width of channel 290 in the X direction can be on the order of approximately 45.0 mm. In other exemplary embodiments, the width of channel 290 in the X direction can be on the order of approximately 200 mm. In some exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the height of channel 290 in the Y direction to the width of channel 290 in the X direction can be approximately 1 to approximately 180. In some exemplary embodiments, the length of channel 290 in the Z direction can be on the order of approximately 70 mm.

[0110] The inlet body 105, base 150, outlet body 195, inlet 200, inlet transition 285, channel 290, outlet transition 295 and outlet 200' can be formed by injection molding or any other suitable method.

[0111] Figure 2This is a detailed perspective wireframe view of the inlet body 105 and inlet 200 of a microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. Additionally or alternatively, the outlet body 195 and outlet 200' may be implemented in a manner substantially similar or identical to that of the inlet body 105 and inlet 200, respectively. Inlet 200 may be configured to transform fluid flow through inlet 200 from an inlet (e.g., port 205, an example described below) to an outlet (e.g., opening 240, an example described below) of inlet 200. Specifically, inlet 200 may be configured to transform fluid flow at the inlet of inlet 200 (e.g., at port 205) into substantially uniform flow at the outlet of inlet 200 (e.g., at opening 240). As used herein, the term "substantially uniform" flow may be used to refer to fluid flow defined, for example, within approximately 10% of the maximum observed value in a given region of the device during a given test. Non-limiting examples of substantially uniform flow are provided below. For clarity, the simulation is represented in 10-level scales of velocity, thus limiting the resolution of uniformity to within 10%.

[0112] Conversely, outlet 200' can be configured to change the fluid flow through outlet 200' from its inlet (e.g., opening 240) to its outlet (e.g., port 205). Specifically, outlet 200' can be configured to change the substantially uniform flow of fluid at the inlet (e.g., at opening 240) of outlet 200' to a flow suitable for fluid exiting outlet 200' (e.g., at port 205).

[0113] Thus, inlet 200 is configured to provide substantially uniform fluid flow as fluid enters channel 290. This substantially uniform flow into channel 290 improves the accuracy of sensors connected to the α-type microfluidic device 100 and / or the flux of fluid through the α-type microfluidic device 100.

[0114] As shown in the figure, for example, in the following Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figures 5-9 (especially) Figures 5-9 On the left side of ) such as Figure 2As shown by the dashed arrows, which depict the fluid velocity, the fluid velocity at the end of each vector in inlet 200 is substantially the same in the X direction at substantially all points along inlet 200. The depth of each inlet and outlet conduit in the Z direction gradually increases from the top inlet port toward the edge along the X direction, significantly reducing the cross-sectional drag, such that the inverse drag contributed by the depth balances the linear drag contributed by any path length from the inlet port to the bottom of the inlet (see Equation 3). For example, when the structure is inlet 200, the flow path from port 205 (e.g., in…) Figure 2 The cumulative resistance of the flow path (marked by the dashed arrow) is equal to or nearly equal to the cumulative resistance of the flow path at the opening 240 at the bottom of the inlet 200. The velocities of these flow paths at the bottom of the inlet are also equally uniform.

[0115] exist Figure 2 In one embodiment, one side of the inlet 200 may be substantially flat (generally coplanar with the XY plane), corresponding to the XY plane of the side of the inlet 200 facing the channel 290 and the outlet 200'. Conversely, the outlet 200' may be substantially flat (generally coplanar with the XY plane), corresponding to the XY plane of the side of the outlet 200' facing the channel 290 and the inlet 200.

[0116] Conversely, outlet 200' is configured to receive a substantially uniform fluid flow as the fluid exits channel 290. This substantially uniform flow from channel 290 ensures the accuracy of the sensor connected to the α-type microfluidic device 100 and / or the flux of the fluid through the α-type microfluidic device 100. As shown, for example, in Figure 4 below— Figure 9 On the right side, the fluid leaving channel 290 has a velocity in the Z direction that is essentially the same in the X direction at virtually all points along outlet 200'.

[0117] The inlet 200 and / or outlet 200' may include a port 205. The port 205 may have a depth 210 in the Z direction. In some exemplary embodiments, the depth 210 of the port 205 in the Z direction may range from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, and in some embodiments, it ranges from about 0.9 mm to about 1.0 mm. The port 205 may have substantially linear edges (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (as shown) or nonlinear edge (not shown). Port 205 can be constructed with an open top (in the XZ plane), an open bottom (in the XZ plane), and four closed sides (two each in the XY and YZ planes).

[0118] like Figure 2As shown, port 205 may have a rectangular (including square) cross-section in one or more of each of the XY, YZ, and XZ planes. Other cross-sectional shapes in the XZ plane, such as circular or elliptical, are also within the scope of this disclosure (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 18 ).

[0119] The inlet 200 and / or outlet 200' may include a tapering region 220. The tapering region 220 may gradually narrow in the Z direction. That is, when viewed from above (from the XZ plane), the tapering region 220 may have a relatively small depth in the Z direction near the port 205 and a relatively large depth in the Z direction near the turning point 225. Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from above (from the XZ plane), the tapering region 220 can be located only on one side of the inlet 200, i.e., the side facing away from the channel 290. Conversely, when viewed from above (from the XZ plane), the tapering region 220 can be located only on one side of the outlet 200', i.e., the side facing away from the channel 290. In other words, the side of the inlet 200 or outlet 200' facing the channel 290 may not have a tapering shape and may be relatively flat (approximately coplanar with the XY plane). (See also...) Figures 11-15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B In an exemplary implementation, both sides of the inlet 400 and the outlet 400' are tapered.

[0120] The tapering region 220 may have a height 215 in the Y direction. In some exemplary embodiments, the height 215 in the Y direction may be approximately 3.0 mm. In some exemplary embodiments, the height 215 in the Y direction may be equal to approximately one-eighth of the distance from the center of the inlet 200 and / or outlet 200' to the edge (at 235), such that the tapering shape of the depth 235 in the Z direction may gradually double. The inlet may be a substantially vertical channel (or conduit).

[0121] A turning point 225 may be located between the tapering region 220 and the curved and tapering region 230. The curved and tapering region 230 may be curved in the Y direction and tapered in the Z direction. That is, when viewed from the side (from the XY plane), the curved and tapering region 230 may begin to curve in the Y direction at the turning point 225, and the curvature in the Y direction may terminate at the end of the curved and tapering region 230. Furthermore, when viewed from above (from the XZ plane), the curved and tapering region 230 may have a relatively small depth in the Z direction at the turning point 225, and a relatively large depth 235 in the Z direction at the end of the curved and tapering region 230. In some exemplary embodiments, the depth 235 of the end of the curved and tapering region 230 in the Z direction may be in the range of about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm, and in some embodiments, it is in the range of about 1.8 mm to about 2.0 mm.

[0122] The total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 can be approximately 1,168 μL, the volume of the channel 290 can be approximately 742.5 μL, the volume of the inlet 200 or outlet 200' can be approximately 212.75 μL, and the combined volume of the inlet 200 and outlet 200' can be approximately 425.5 μL. Thus, the volume of the inlet 200 and outlet 200' accounts for approximately 36.43% of the total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100.

[0123] The curved and tapering region 230 can be a dead-volume region (or eddy-forming region) with a relatively slow flow rate, which can be minimized for complete media exchange. In some exemplary embodiments, chamfered and / or curved intersections (not shown) can be used to avoid relatively sharp 90° intersections between adjacent surfaces.

[0124] In some exemplary implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, the depth in the Z direction can vary linearly, for example, from approximately 0.75 mm near port 205 to approximately 1.5 mm at the end; from approximately 0.9 mm near port 205 to approximately 1.8 mm at the end; from approximately 1.0 mm near port 205 to approximately 2.0 mm at the end; or from approximately 1.5 mm near port 205 to approximately 3.0 mm at the end. Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment described, for example, the depth varies at a ratio of 1:2, such that the inverse drag contributed by the depth is at a ratio of 8 (i.e., 2). 3The length variation is 1.5 times, thus balancing the linear resistance contributed by the length variation (~8) from the center of the inlet port to the bottom of the inlet edge, for example, about 3.0 mm to about 24.0 mm (see, for example, Equation 3). The inlet 200 and outlet 200' may have one or more substantially linear edges, for example, as... Figure 2 As shown. In some exemplary embodiments, the depth in the Z direction may increase from port 205 to the end (at depth 235). Inlet 200 and outlet 200' may have one or more curved edges (not shown). Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the depth in the Z direction may be substantially constant from port to end (e.g., not tapered), having substantially linear edges (see...). Figure 17 ).

[0125] In some exemplary embodiments, the taper from approximately 1.0 mm at depth 210 to approximately 2.0 mm at depth 235 (or approximately 0.75 mm to approximately 1.5 mm, or approximately 0.9 mm to approximately 1.8 mm, or approximately 1.5 mm to approximately 3.0 mm) can be linear. The linear taper shape is sufficient to balance the flow resistance between the center of port 205 and any point along opening 240. The length of the fluid flow path ( Figure 2 The dashed line in the diagram changes approximately from about 3.0 mm at port 205 to about 24.0 mm between port 205 and the end (depth 235) (e.g., the length from the center to the end is 8 times longer), and correspondingly, the drag contributed by the length increases by 8 times. To balance the drag, the tapering shape from the center of port 205 to the depth of depth 235 effectively reduces the drag contributed by depth by 8 times (2... 3 In other exemplary embodiments, the taper can be non-linear or curved because, in the case of a linear taper shape, there is slightly lower resistance at the center (where the maximum Z-direction velocity is reached relatively quickly) compared to the ends. A linear taper shape can generate sufficiently uniform velocity at the inlet of the test channel 290. In some exemplary embodiments, the opening 240 has a depth in the Z-direction ranging from about 1.5 mm to about 3.0 mm (about 2.0 mm, greater than about 2.0 mm, or less than about 2.0 mm).

[0126] Opening 240 may be formed in the bottom surface of inlet body 105 or the bottom surface of outlet body 195. That is, opening 240 may be formed to provide fluid communication between the interior of inlet 200 and inlet transition 285, or on the other side of the device, opening 240 may be formed to provide fluid communication between the interior of outlet transition 295 and outlet 200'. Inlet transition 285 and / or outlet transition 295 may have a substantially straight shape or any other suitable shape. Inlet transition 285 and / or outlet transition 295 may have substantially linear edges (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (as shown) or nonlinear edge (not shown).

[0127] The inlet transition section 285 can be used to change the main flow direction of the fluid from a basically vertical direction in the Y direction and a basically horizontal direction in the X direction after leaving the inlet 200 to a basically horizontal direction in the Z direction before entering the channel 290. Conversely, the outlet transition section 295 can be used to change the main flow direction of the fluid from a basically horizontal direction in the Z direction in the channel 290 to a basically vertical direction in the Y direction and a basically horizontal direction in the X direction before entering the outlet 200'.

[0128] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the fluid flow regions in the inlet 200, inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of a microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 The solid shape inside represents the fluid flow region, which is in Figure 3 The fluid begins to flow from the left at port 205 of inlet 200, then flows downward (in the Y direction) through port 205, downward (in the Y direction) and outward or laterally (in both X directions) within inlet 200, exiting through opening 240 at the bottom of inlet 200, entering inlet transition 285, changing direction to flow right (in the Z direction) before exiting inlet transition 285, entering channel 290, flowing from left to right (in the Z direction) through channel 290, exiting into outlet transition 295, changing direction to flow upward into opening 240 at the bottom of outlet 200', upward (in the Y direction) and inward (in both X directions) toward port 205, upward (in the Y direction) through port 205, and exiting from the top of port 205. Although the primary direction of fluid flow as described herein is from left to right, it should be understood that the inlet and outlet can be reversed, such that the fluid flows from right to left.

[0129] Table 1 summarizes the speed studies of various exemplary embodiments of the microfluidic devices of this disclosure.

[0130]

[0131]

[0132] Figure 4A This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid (e.g., water) flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 0.1 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of an α-type microfluidic device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In some exemplary embodiments, the fluid velocity can be measured approximately halfway between the upper and lower inner surfaces of channel 290. Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 5-10 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 17 and Figures 24-30 In an exemplary embodiment (including), the height of channel 290 in the Y direction is approximately 0.25 mm, and the fluid velocity is measured approximately 0.125 mm below the upper inner surface of channel 290 or approximately 0.125 mm above the lower inner surface of channel 290. At relatively low flow rates, such as Figure 4A As shown, the viscosity effect of water may become more pronounced, and smaller edge effects are observed. The upper limit of this exemplary design can be limited by laminar flow constraints. Figure 4A In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.009893 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 0.009893 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, i.e., approximately 0.008793 mm / sec to approximately 0.009893 mm / sec. However, in Figure 4AIn the exemplary embodiment, at the four corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 0.007694 mm / sec to approximately 0.008793 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0133] In some exemplary embodiments, the first ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​port 205 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of channel 290 (i.e., X-dimensional × Y-dimensional) is approximately 2.0 (e.g., 1.0 mm × 2.0 mm) to approximately 15.0 (e.g., 0.25 mm × 60.0 mm) or approximately 1.0 to approximately 7.5. In some exemplary embodiments, the second ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​port 205 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) to the cross-sectional area of ​​opening 240 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) is approximately 2.0 (e.g., 1.0 mm × 2.0 mm) to approximately 100.0 (2.0 mm × 50.0 mm) or approximately 1.0 to approximately 50.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the third ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​opening 240 (i.e., X dimension × Z dimension) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of channel 290 (i.e., X dimension × Y dimension) is approximately 100.0 (2.0 mm × 50.0 mm) to approximately 15.0 (e.g., 0.25 mm × 60.0 mm) or approximately 6.67 to approximately 1.00. In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth ratio of the depth 210 of port 205 to the depth 235 at the end of inlet 200 or outlet 200' is approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the fifth ratio of the depth 210 of port 205 to the depth 235 at the end of inlet 200 or outlet 200' to the height 215 at or near port 205 is approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0 to approximately 3.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the height of channel 290 is approximately 0.25 to approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0 to approximately 3.0, or approximately 1.0 to approximately 4.0 to approximately 8.0 to approximately 12.0, relative to the depth 210 of port 205 and the depth 235 at the end of inlet 200 or outlet 200'. In some exemplary embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of one or both sides of inlet 200 or outlet 200' in the XZ plane is a bow shape (i.e., similar to a clothing accessory called a bow worn around the neck) or a venturi shape. In some exemplary embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of inlet 200 or outlet 200' in the XY plane is an arc shape (i.e., similar to a bow used for archery) or a bracket shape (i.e., similar to a left bracket ("{") or a right bracket ("}")).

[0134] Figure 4B This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid (e.g., water) flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 4B The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 4A The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately 10 times that of the volumetric flow rate.

[0135] exist Figure 4B In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.09886 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 0.09886 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is approximately 0.08788 mm / sec to approximately 0.09886 mm / sec. Unlike... Figure 4A Exemplary implementations, in Figure 4B In the α-type microfluidic device 100, at a height of approximately 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of channel 290 in the Z-direction, the velocity of all fluid flowing in the Z-direction within the sensor region 293 of channel 290 is substantially uniform, i.e., between approximately 0.08788 mm / sec and approximately 0.09886 mm / sec, including the region along the side edge of channel 290. In other words, for the α-type microfluidic device 100, the volumetric flow rate ranges from approximately 0.1 μL / sec (… Figure 4A ) to approximately 1 μL / sec ( Figure 4B The variation is noticeable because the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 of the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is mostly uniform at 0.1 μL / sec (see, along...). Figure 4A The variation of the side edges in region 291); while the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 in sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform at 1 μL / sec (see, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The substantially uniform flow of fluid is an advantageous effect of the above-described exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the above-described configuration of outlet 200'.

[0136] Figure 5This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 10 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 5 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 4B The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately 10 times that of the volumetric flow rate.

[0137] exist Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 1.000 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and the channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 1.000 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and the outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction, is approximately 0.9025 mm / sec to approximately 1.000 mm / sec. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0138] Figure 6 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 6 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 5 The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately 10 times that of the previous test. Similar to... Figure 5 Exemplary implementations, in Figure 6 In the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, at a height of about 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of the channel 290 in the Z direction, the velocity of all fluid flowing in the channel 290 in the Z direction is substantially uniform, that is, between about 9.000 mm / sec and about 10.00 mm / sec, including the region along the side edge of the channel 290.

[0139] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of the fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The only difference between them is the perspective.

[0140] Figure 8 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 500 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 8 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 6 and Figure 7 The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately 5 times that of the volumetric flow rate. Similar to... Figure 4B and Figures 5-7 (including) exemplary implementations, in Figure 8 In the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, at a height of about 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of the channel 290 in the Z direction, the velocity of all fluid flowing in the channel 290 in the Z direction is substantially uniform, that is, between about 47.00 mm / sec and about 52.00 mm / sec, including the region along the side edge of the channel 290.

[0141] Figure 9 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1,000 μL / sec (or approximately 1 mL / sec) at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 9 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 8 The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately twice that of the volumetric flow rate. Figure 9 In the Z-direction, at a height of approximately 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of channel 290, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction within the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is noticeably not substantially uniform (even less than...). Figure 4A The uniformity in the test shown. Figure 9On the left side, below the inlet body 105, the velocity variation of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 within the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is relatively large. Specifically, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 110.0 mm / sec below the inlet body 105; between approximately 86.00 mm / sec and approximately 110.0 mm / sec in the channel 290; and between approximately 110.0 mm / sec and approximately 24.00 mm / sec below the outlet body 195. In irregular, generally elliptical regions (such as...) Figure 9 The highest speed was observed in the region shown, which extends from the point to the right of port 205 of inlet 200 to the point to the left of port 205 of outlet 200'; while Figure 9 On the left side, the lowest speed was observed in either of the two partitions on either side of port 205 of inlet 200. Within channel 290, as in... Figure 9 As seen in the image, the highest speed was observed in the center of channel 290. Figure 9 In the exemplary embodiment, at the four corners of channel 290, along the side edge of region 291 of sensor region 293 of α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is about 86.00 mm / sec to about 98.00 mm / sec, which is lower than the velocity exhibited in the irregular, generally elliptical region.

[0142] Figure 10 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 5,000 μL / sec (or approximately 5 μL / sec) at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, Figure 10 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is Figure 9 The volumetric flow rate used in the test shown is approximately 5 times that of the volumetric flow rate. Unlike... Figure 4B and Figures 5-8 (including) exemplary implementations, in Figure 10 In the Z-direction, at a height of approximately 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of channel 290, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction within the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is noticeably not substantially uniform (even less than...). Figure 4A The uniformity in the test shown. Figure 10On the left side, below the inlet body 105, the velocity variation of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 within the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is relatively large. Specifically, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the α-type microfluidic device 100 is between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 733.0 mm / sec below the inlet body 105; between approximately 326.0 mm / sec and approximately 652.0 mm / sec in the channel 290; and between approximately 163.0 mm / sec and approximately 652.0 mm / sec below the outlet body 195. The highest velocity is observed near the port 205 of the inlet 200; while... Figure 10 On the left side, the lowest speed was observed in either of the two sections on either side of port 205 of entrance 200. Within channel 290, the highest speed was observed on either side of port 205 of entrance 200, while a relatively slower localized point appeared on the right side (in the Z direction) immediately adjacent to port 205 of entrance 200 within channel 290, such as... Figure 10 As shown.

[0143] Figure 22A This is a cross-section in the XY plane passing through the channel 290, approximately 3.0 mm in the Z direction, of the port 205 of the inlet 200 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α, relative to the inlet 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. It should be noted that the structures of the port 205 and the inlet 200 are shown for reference and do not form part of the XY plane in the cross-section. Figure 22A The bottom shows the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane through channel 290. Figure 22B include Figure 22A The enlarged central part at the bottom. Figure 22B The velocity distribution exhibits a parabolic shape, with the maximum velocity located in the middle part of the plane. All measurements of the plane velocity in the Z direction are taken in this middle part, i.e., at a distance of approximately 0.125 mm from the bottom of the channel 290. Figure 22A and Figure 22B This indicates that, as Figure 23 The velocity in the Z direction is more uniform at approximately 3.0 mm of entry into channel 290, compared to approximately 1.0 mm in the Z direction. Figure 22A and Figure 22B In the Z direction, the velocity in the Z direction entering the channel 290 at a point about 3.0 mm away changes from a minimum velocity of about 6 mm / s to about 7 mm / s at the upper and lower edges of the adjacent channel 290 to a maximum velocity of about 11 mm / s to about 13 mm / s at the midpoint of the channel in the Y direction (i.e., about 0.125 mm from the bottom of the channel).

[0144] Figure 23 It is an enlarged cross-section in the XY plane, approximately 1.0 mm in the Z direction, passing through the left side of the distal edge of the channel 290 relative to the port 205 of the inlet 200 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to the exemplary embodiment, that is, this cross-section is larger than... Figure 22A and Figure 22B The cross-section is closer to the inlet 200. Only one side (negative X-direction side) of the channel 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is shown. Figure 23 The bottom shows the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane through channel 290. Figure 23 This indicates that, as Figure 22A and Figure 22B As shown, the velocity in the Z direction is less uniform at 1.0 mm of entry into channel 290 compared to 3.0 mm. Furthermore, please note that... Figure 23 This indicates that the maximum velocity in channel 290 does not necessarily extend all the way to the edge of channel 290. Used for generation in the XY plane. Figure 23 The resolution of the analysis system does not result in the correlation data and display of relatively slower velocities near the channel edges in all XZ plane velocity distributions presented in this specification. Figure 23 This likely indicates that the relatively high velocity (on the order of 13 mm / sec) extends all the way to or almost all the way to the edge of channel 290, which may be used to generate Figure 23 The resolution and analysis of system artifacts. It is generally known for this structure that relatively slow velocities occur relatively close to the edge of channel 290, on the order of half the height of channel 290, i.e., within approximately 0.000 mm to approximately 0.125 mm from the edge of the channel in the X direction. In fact, the maximum velocity does not physically reach the edge of channel 290, as... Figure 23 This is implied by the extension of the velocity from approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec on the left side. In other words, it is reasonable to expect that the left and right edges of channel 290 have a gradual velocity distribution similar to that of the top and bottom edges of channel 290.

[0145] also, Figure 23 The most uniform velocity in channel 290 is shown to continue occurring approximately halfway up the channel 290 in the Y direction. For example, when channel 290 has a length of approximately 0.250 mm in the Y direction, the most uniform velocity occurs approximately 0.125 mm from the bottom of channel 290 in the Y direction. Figure 23To the right of B, the main velocities in the Z direction are between approximately 6,000 mm / sec and approximately 13,000 mm / sec. However, in Figure 23 At the far left of channel B, corresponding to the side edge of channel 290, the velocity in the Z direction is between approximately 6.000 mm / sec and approximately 11.00 mm / sec. Near the top of channel 290, the velocity in the Z direction is between approximately 6.000 mm / sec and approximately 7.000 mm / sec. Near the bottom of channel 290, the velocity in the Z direction is between approximately 4.000 mm / sec and approximately 6.000 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity in the Z direction varies more significantly near the edges of channel 290 compared to the center of channel 290.

[0146] Figures 24-28 and Figure 30 It shows a scaled-down ( Figures 24-28 The inlet 200 and outlet 200' structure and the scaled-up ( Figure 30 The velocity distribution in the XZ plane of an α-type microfluidic device with inlet 200 and outlet 200' structures. Figure 29 This is another velocity distribution in the XZ plane for an α-type microfluidic device with a full-size (100%) inlet 200 and outlet 200' structure, where the fluid flows at a volumetric flow rate of 2,000 μL / sec (or approximately 2 mL / sec). That is, to analyze the full-size (100%) inlet 200 and outlet 200', the fluid can be sequentially... Figure 9 After that (approximately 1 mL / sec) and Figure 10 Previous observation (approximately 5 mL / sec) Figure 29 .

[0147] As used herein, the terms “scaled down,” “scaled up,” “original size (100%),” etc., are intended to indicate the differences in the inlet and outlet structures of 200 and 200' relative to the inlet and outlet structures of an α-type microfluidic device, in which the depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction is approximately 1.0 mm and the depth 235 of the end of the curved and tapered region 230 in the Z direction is approximately 2.0 mm. The terms “scaled down,” “scaled up,” “original size (100%),” etc., should not be interpreted qualitatively. In other words, for convenience, for example, the term “original size (100%)” is used to refer to a reference design compared with other designs. Furthermore, as used herein, in some embodiments, the terms “scale” and variations (i.e., half-scale, three-quarter scale (75%), etc.) may refer to changes in two dimensions of inlet 200 and outlet 200', such as, for example, the depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction and the depth 235 of the end of the curved and tapered region 230 in the Z direction. Figures 24-28 and Figure 30 In addition to depths 210 and 235, other features of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be the same as the original-size (100%) version described above, for example... Figures 1-3 The features are the same as those of the exemplary implementations.

[0148] Figure 24 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device 100 having a half-scale (50%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' according to an exemplary embodiment. The depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction may be approximately 0.5 mm, and the depth 235 of the end of the bend and tapering region 230 in the Z direction may be approximately 1.0 mm. The total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 967 μL, the volume of channel 290 may be approximately 742.5 μL, the volume of inlet 200 or outlet 200' may be approximately 112.25 μL, and the combined volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' may be approximately 224.5 μL. Thus, the percentage of the volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' to the total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 23.21%.

[0149] exist Figure 24 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 varies from approximately 4.000 mm / sec to approximately 11.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 varies from approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 4.000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 directly below the outlet body 195. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 8.000 mm / sec to approximately 11.00 mm / sec. The peak velocities range from approximately 10.00 mm / sec to approximately 11.00 mm / sec and occur in two regions, one relatively close to port 205 of inlet 200 and the other relatively close to port 205 of outlet 200'. From the viewpoint of a substantially uniform velocity in the Z direction, the half-proportional (50%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' is less desirable than other proportions at the same or similar volumetric flow rates of approximately 100 μL / sec.

[0150] Figure 25 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1 mL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device 100 having a half-scale (50%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' according to an exemplary embodiment. That is, this volumetric flow rate is... Figure 24 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is approximately 10 times that of the volumetric flow rate. Figure 25 The design of the 200' entrance / 200' exit Figure 24 The design is the same.

[0151] exist Figure 25 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 varies from approximately 43.00 mm / sec to approximately 128.0 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 varies from approximately 128.0 mm / sec to approximately 43.00 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 directly below the outlet body 195. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 71.00 mm / sec to approximately 114.0 mm / sec. The peak velocities ranged from approximately 114.0 mm / sec to approximately 128.0 mm / sec and occurred in two regions, one relatively close to port 205 of inlet 200 and the other relatively close to port 205 of outlet 200'. From the viewpoint of a substantially uniform velocity in the Z direction, the half-proportion (50%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' is less desirable than other proportions at the same or similar volumetric flow rates of approximately 1 mL / sec.

[0152] Figure 26This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device having an inlet 200 / outlet 200' with a three-quarters (75%) ratio, according to an exemplary embodiment. The depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction may be approximately 0.75 mm, and the depth 235 of the end of the bend and tapering region 230 in the Z direction may be approximately 1.5 mm. The total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 1,067 μL, the volume of channel 290 may be approximately 742.5 μL, the volume of inlet 200 or outlet 200' may be approximately 162.25 μL, and the combined volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' may be approximately 324.5 μL. Thus, the percentage of the volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' to the total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 30.41%.

[0153] exist Figure 26 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 varies from approximately 4.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 varies from approximately 10.00 mm / sec to approximately 4.000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 directly below the outlet body 195. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 8.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec. In the four corners of channel 290, and in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 8.000 mm / sec to approximately 9.000 mm / sec. Peak velocities are approximately 9.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec, and occur in the substantial portion of channel 290 and in the portions of the α-type microfluidic device 100 adjacent to channel 290 below inlet body 105 and below outlet body 195. From the viewpoint of substantially uniform velocity in the Z direction, at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec, a three-quarters ratio (75%) of inlet 200 / outlet 200' is closer to ideal than a relatively smaller ratio, but less ideal than other ratios at the same or similar volumetric flow rates.

[0154] Figure 27 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device with a nine-tenths (90%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' according to an exemplary embodiment. The depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction may be approximately 0.9 mm, and the depth 235 of the end of the bend and tapering region 230 in the Z direction may be approximately 1.8 mm. The total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 1,128 μL, the volume of channel 290 may be approximately 742.5 μL, the volume of inlet 200 or outlet 200' may be approximately 192.75 μL, and the combined volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' may be approximately 385.5 μL. Thus, the percentage of the volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' to the total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 may be approximately 34.18%.

[0155] exist Figure 27 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 13.00 mm / sec to approximately 6.000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195. That is, the velocity varies considerably in transition sections 285 and 295. In contrast, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 between the inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec. The peak velocity is approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec, and occurs over a substantial portion of channel 290 or throughout the channel. From the viewpoint of a substantially uniform velocity in the Z direction, at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec, a nine-tenths ratio (90%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' is closer to the ideal than a relatively smaller ratio device, and is comparable to a device with a design having a full-size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' at the same or similar volumetric flow rate.

[0156] Figure 28This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device 100 with an inlet 200 / outlet 200' ratio of nine-tenths (90%) according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1 mL / sec in the XZ plane. That is, the volumetric flow rate is... Figure 27 The volumetric flow rate shown in the test is approximately 10 times that of the volumetric flow rate.

[0157] exist Figure 28 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 varies from approximately 16.00 mm / sec to approximately 146.0 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 varies from approximately 130.0 mm / sec to approximately 49.00 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition 295 directly below the outlet body 195. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 98.00 mm / sec to approximately 146.0 mm / sec. In the substantial portion of channel 290, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, varies from approximately 114.0 mm / sec to approximately 130.0 mm / sec, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290. The peak velocity is from approximately 130.0 mm / sec to approximately 146.0 mm / sec and occurs in a region relatively close to the port 205 of the inlet 200. From the viewpoint of a substantially uniform velocity in the Z direction, at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1 mL / sec, nine out of ten (90%) of the inlet 200 / outlet 200' is less ideal than other ratios at the same or similar volumetric flow rates, but is substantially closer to ideal than many relatively small ratio devices.

[0158] Figure 29This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 2 mL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device 100 having a full-size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200', according to an exemplary embodiment. As detailed above, for an α-type microfluidic device 100 having a full-size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200', the depth 210 of port 205 in the Z direction may be approximately 1.0 mm, and the depth 235 of the end of the curved and tapered region 230 in the Z direction may be approximately 2.0 mm.

[0159] exist Figure 29 In the α-type microfluidic device 100, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction is between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 424.0 mm / sec below the inlet body 105; between approximately 188.0 mm / sec and approximately 282.0 mm / sec in the channel 290; and between approximately 47.00 mm / sec and approximately 282.0 mm / sec below the outlet body 195. A maximum velocity between approximately 377.0 mm / sec and approximately 424.0 mm / sec is observed near port 205 of the inlet 200; and... Figure 29 On the left side, in either of the two sections on either side of port 205 of inlet 200, the lowest velocity was observed between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 47.00 mm / sec. Within channel 290, the highest velocity was observed in the irregularly shaped region of the substantial portion of channel 290, which was between approximately 235.0 mm / sec and approximately 282.0 mm / sec.

[0160] When in sequence Figure 9 After that (approximately 1 mL / sec) and Figure 10 Previous observation (approximately 10 mL / sec) Figure 29 At that time, that is, from Figure 4 to Figure 10 In the progress of (inclusive), the following measurements were taken of the α-type microfluidic device 100 with original size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200'. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 of the sensor region 293 located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform: at about half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, the velocity is approximately 1 μL / sec. Figure 4B ), 10μL / sec ( Figure 5 ), 100 μL / sec ( Figure 6 and Figure 7 ), and 500 μL / sec ( Figure 8Measurements were taken at multiple volumetric flow rates. At 0.1 μL / sec ( Figure 4A ) and 1μL / sec ( Figure 4B Between the volumetric flow rates of α-type microfluidic devices 100, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 290 located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, transitions from partially uniform to substantially uniform. Conversely, at 500 μL / sec ( Figure 8 ) and 1 mL / sec ( Figure 9 Between the volumetric flow rates, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, transitions from substantially uniform to partially uniform. At 1 mL / sec ( Figure 9 ) and 2 mL / sec ( Figure 29 ) and 5 mL / sec ( Figure 10 The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, transitions from partially uniform to substantially non-uniform. That is, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 with original-size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' is substantially uniform, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, between approximately 0.5 μL / sec and approximately 750 μL / sec, more specifically between approximately 1 μL / sec and approximately 500 μL / sec.

[0161] When the volumetric flow rate of the fluid is approximately 500 μL / sec ( Figure 8 When using an α-type microfluidic device 100 with an inlet 200 / outlet 200' of original size (100%), the maximum essentially uniform velocity of channel 290 in the Z direction between approximately 47.00 mm / sec and approximately 52.00 mm / sec is obtained in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195. Furthermore, when the volumetric flow rate of the fluid is approximately 1 μL / sec ( Figure 4BWhen using an α-type microfluidic device 100 with an inlet 200 / outlet 200' of original size (100%), the minimum basic uniform velocity of the channel 290 in the Z direction between about 0.08788 mm / sec and about 0.09886 mm / sec is obtained in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195.

[0162] Figure 30 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition, channel, and outlet transition of an α-type microfluidic device having a three-quarters (150%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' according to an exemplary embodiment. For the α-type microfluidic device 100 having a three-quarters (150%) inlet 200 / outlet 200', the depth 210 of the port 205 in the Z direction may be approximately 1.5 mm, and the depth 235 of the end of the curved and tapered region 230 in the Z direction may be approximately 3.0 mm. The total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 with a 2 / 3 ratio (150%) of inlet 200 / outlet 200' can be approximately 1,370 μL, the volume of channel 290 can be approximately 742.5 μL, the volume of inlet 200 or outlet 200' can be approximately 313.75 μL, and the combined volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' can be approximately 627.5 μL. Thus, the percentage of the volume of inlet 200 and outlet 200' to the total volume of the α-type microfluidic device 100 can be approximately 45.80%. Figure 30 This is a velocity distribution diagram in the XZ plane for an α-type microfluidic device with a three-quarters (150%) inlet 200 and outlet 200' structure, where the fluid flows at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec.

[0163] When from Figures 26 to 27 arrive Figures 6 to 30 Observing the progress Figure 30 At that time, the ratio of inlet 200 / outlet 200 was 90%. Figure 27 ), with original size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200' ( Figure 6 ), and with a 2 / 3 ratio (150%) of 200 inlet / 200 outlet ( Figure 30The following measurements were taken in each of the α-type microfluidic devices 100: the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the channel 290 of the sensor region 293 located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 was substantially uniform: measured at approximately half the height in the Y-direction between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec. At a three-quarters ratio (75%) of the inlet 200 / outlet 200' (… Figure 26 ) and nine-tenths (90%) of the inflow 200 / outflow 200' ( Figure 27 The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of an α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, is measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290. This velocity transitions from partially non-uniform to substantially or completely uniform. The ratio of inlet 200 to outlet 200' is approximately nine-tenths (90%). Figure 27 The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290 at approximately half the height in the Y direction at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec, is substantially uniform, ranging from approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec. The α-type microfluidic device 100 has a 100% original size (100%) inlet 200 / outlet 200'. Figure 6 In an α-type microfluidic device 100 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction within the sensor region 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290 at approximately half the height in the Y direction, is substantially uniform, ranging from approximately 9.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec. A three-way ratio (150%) is observed between the inlet 200 and outlet 200'. Figure 30 The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290 at approximately half the height in the Y direction, at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec, is substantially uniform, ranging from approximately 8.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec.

[0164] In Figures 31-38In related tests, the viscosity of the fluid was generally higher than that of the fluid. Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 5-10 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 17 , Figure 22A , Figure 22B , Figures 23-30 , Figure 39 and Figure 40 (Including) the viscosity of the fluid in the relevant tests. Figures 31-33 This is a planar wireframe view that highlights the flow rates of fluids with a viscosity 100 times that of water at the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the microfluidic device 100 of type α according to an exemplary embodiment, flowing in the XZ plane at volumetric flow rates of approximately 1 μL / sec, approximately 10 μL / sec, and approximately 100 μL / sec, respectively. Figures 34-38 This is a planar wireframe view that highlights the flow of a fluid with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water at volumetric flow rates of approximately 0.1 μL / sec, approximately 100 μL / sec, approximately 2 mL / sec, approximately 5 mL / sec, and approximately 10 mL / sec in the XZ plane of the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figures 31-36 This demonstrates the ability of the α-type microfluidic device 100 to produce substantially uniform flow of fluid in channel 290 at substantially high viscosities (up to about 1,000 times the viscosity of water) and at volumetric flow rates up to about 2 mL / sec. For ease of comparison, with... Figure 31 The relevant tests can be related to Figure 4B The test (approximately 1 μL / sec) was compared with... Figure 32 The relevant tests can be related to Figure 5 The test (approximately 10 μL / sec) was compared with... Figure 33 and Figure 35 Each of the relevant tests can be compared with Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 22A , Figure 22B , Figure 23 , Figure 24 , Figure 26 , Figure 27 , Figure 30 , Figure 39 and Figure 40 Each of the tests (approximately 100 μL / sec) was compared; Figure 34 The test can be with Figure 4A The test (approximately 0.1 μL / sec) was compared; Figure 36 The test can be with Figure 29 The test comparison (approximately 2,000 μL / sec); and Figure 37 The test can be with Figure 10 The test (approximately 5,000 μL / sec) was compared with that.

[0165] Specifically, in Figure 31 In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of about 1 μL / sec and in the Z direction, with a viscosity 100 times that of water, varies from about 0.0000 mm / sec to about 0.1226 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from about 0.1226 mm / sec to about 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, i.e., approximately 0.1089 mm / sec to approximately 0.1226 mm / sec. However, in Figure 31 In the exemplary embodiment, at the two corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 0.09533 mm / sec to approximately 0.1089 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0166] exist Figure 32In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 10 μL / sec and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 100 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 1.000 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 1.000 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, namely approximately 0.9812 mm / sec and approximately 1.000 mm / sec. However, in Figure 32 In the exemplary embodiment, at the two corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 0.8586 mm / sec to approximately 0.9812 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0167] exist Figure 33In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 100 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 12.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 12.00 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 12.00 mm / sec. However, in Figure 33 In the exemplary embodiment, at the two corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 10.00 mm / sec to approximately 11.00 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0168] exist Figure 34In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 0.1 μL / sec and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.01224 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 0.01224 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, i.e., approximately 0.01088 mm / sec to approximately 0.01224 mm / sec. However, in Figure 34 In the exemplary embodiment, at the two corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 0.009520 mm / sec to approximately 0.01088 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0169] exist Figure 35In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 12.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 12.00 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction between the lower and upper surfaces of channel 290, is within a relatively narrow range, approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 12.00 mm / sec. However, in Figure 35 In the exemplary embodiment, at the two corners of channel 290, in region 291 of sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 located between inlet body 105 and outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 10.00 mm / sec to approximately 11.00 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 290 within sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of outlet 200'.

[0170] exist Figure 36In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 2,000 μL / sec (approximately 2 mL / sec) and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 248.0 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 248.0 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 290 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290 at approximately half its height in the Y direction, is within a relatively narrow range, i.e., approximately 221.0 mm / sec to approximately 248.0 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 of the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of the inlet 200 and the aforementioned configuration of the outlet 200'.

[0171] exist Figure 37In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 5,000 μL / sec (approximately 5 mL / sec) and flowing in the Z direction, with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water, varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 656.0 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 656.0 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195. The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290, varies from approximately 510.0 mm / sec to approximately 656.0 mm / sec, measured at approximately half the height in the Y direction. At the four corners of the channel 290 and along the side edges of the channel 290, in region 291 of the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 between the inlet body 105 and the outlet body 195, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 510.0 mm / sec to approximately 583.0 mm / sec. The peak velocity is approximately 583.0 mm / sec to approximately 656.0 mm / sec and occurs in the substantial portion of the channel 290 and in the portions of the α-type microfluidic device 100 adjacent to the channel 290 below the inlet body 105 and below the outlet body 195. The α-type microfluidic device 100 exhibits a minimum velocity of approximately 0.000 mm / sec in each of the four corners below each of the inlet 200 and outlet 200'.

[0172] exist Figure 38 In the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100, at a height of approximately 0.125 mm above the bottom surface of channel 290 in the Z direction, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 10,000 μL / sec (approximately 10 mL / sec), with a viscosity 1,000 times that of water, is significantly not substantially uniform (even less than...). Figure 37 The uniformity in the test shown. Figure 38On the left side, below the inlet body 105, the velocity variation of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 within the sensor region 293 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 is relatively large. Specifically, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the α-type microfluidic device 100 is between approximately 0.0000 mm / sec and approximately 2,165 mm / sec below the inlet body 105; between approximately 481.0 mm / sec and approximately 1,684 mm / sec in the channel 290; and between approximately 241.0 mm / sec and approximately 1,684.0 mm / sec below the outlet body 195. The highest velocity is observed near the port 205 of the inlet 200; while... Figure 10 On the left side, the lowest speed was observed in either of the two sections on either side of port 205 of entrance 200. Within channel 290, the highest speed was observed on either side of port 205 of entrance 200, while a relatively slower localized point appeared on the right side (in the Z direction) immediately adjacent to port 205 of entrance 200 within channel 290, such as... Figure 38 As shown.

[0173] Figure 39 This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the XZ plane at an inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of an alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A with an inlet 200, similar to other embodiments. However, instead of outlet 200', according to the exemplary embodiment, the alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A has an unrestricted outlet 200A with a relatively large volume. Specifically, outlet 200A may have a substantially linear shape, having an open bottom adjacent to the outlet transition and an open top accessible from above the alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A, and four sidewalls defined by and within outlet body 195. The opening in outlet 200A may have a width substantially equal to that of channel 290 in the X direction and a dimension in the Z direction of approximately 2.0 mm.

[0174] exist Figure 39In the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec and flowing in the Z direction varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 285 and channel 290 directly below the inlet body 105, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 105. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 varies from approximately 13.00 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 290 and outlet transition section 295 directly below the outlet body 195, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 195. Conversely, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the sensor region 290 of the alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A, located between the lower and upper surfaces of the channel 290 at approximately half its height in the Y direction, is within a relatively narrow range, i.e., from approximately 11.00 mm / sec to approximately 13.00 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 290 of the sensor region 293 of the alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform flow of fluid is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of the inlet 200 and is independent of the structure of the outlet 200A.

[0175] Figure 40 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of the fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec in the inlet transition 285, channel 290, and outlet transition 295 of an alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 39 and Figure 40 The only difference between them is the perspective.

[0176] Figure 39 and Figure 40 Together, it is shown that the inlet 200 of the α-type microfluidic device 100 and the alternative α-type microfluidic device 100A can achieve substantially uniform flow in the Z direction of the channel 290 as described and shown above (without requiring any specific contraction structure for the outlet 200' or outlet 200A).

[0177] β-type microfluidic devices

[0178] Figures 11-15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B A microfluidic device 300 of type β according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figures 11-15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B The β-type microfluidic device 300 in the middle is basically similar to Figures 1-3 , Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figures 5-10 The α-type microfluidic device 100, except in Figures 1-3 , Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figures 5-10 In the middle, only one side of the inlet 200 and outlet 200' is flat (approximately coplanar with the XY plane), that is, the side facing the channel 290 is flat (approximately coplanar with the XY plane), and the side away from the channel 290 is tapered. And... Figures 11-15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B In the middle, both sides of the entrance 400 and the exit 400' are tapered; that is, both the side facing the channel 490 and the side away from the channel 490 are tapered. Otherwise, Figures 11-15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B One or more features of the β-type microfluidic device 300 can be substantially similar to Figures 1-3 , Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figures 5-10 The corresponding features of the α-type microfluidic device 100 in the text.

[0179] Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional wireframe view that highlights the velocity of the fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition 485, channel 490, and outlet transition 495 of a β-type microfluidic device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 15 This is a planar wireframe view that highlights the velocity of fluid flowing in the XZ plane at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 100 μL / sec at the inlet transition 485, channel 490, and outlet transition 495 of a β-type microfluidic device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0180] The velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the inlet transition section 485 and the channel 490 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 485 and the channel 490 directly below the inlet body 305, but this velocity variation area is essentially contained within the region below the inlet body 305. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the channel 490 and the outlet transition section 495 varies from approximately 10.00 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 490 and the outlet transition section 495 directly below the outlet body 395, but this velocity variation area is essentially contained within the region below the outlet body 395. Conversely, in the sensor region 493 (i.e., the straight region of channel 490) of the β-type microfluidic device 300 located between the inlet body 305 and the outlet body 395, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 490 is approximately 9.000 mm / sec to approximately 10.00 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in channel 490 within the sensor region 493 of the β-type microfluidic device 300 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform flow of fluid is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of the inlet 400 and the aforementioned configuration of the outlet 400'.

[0181] Figure 16A This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the inlet transition 485, channel 490, and outlet transition 495 of a β-type microfluidic device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment, at a rate of approximately 1 μL / sec in the XZ plane (compared to...). Figures 14-15 The velocity of the fluid flowing at a relatively low volumetric flow rate (approximately 100 times smaller). Figure 16AIn the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the inlet transition section 485 and the channel 490 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.09634 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 485 and the channel 490 directly below the inlet body 305, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 305. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 490 and the outlet transition section 495 varies from approximately 0.09634 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 490 and the outlet transition section 495 directly below the outlet body 395, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 395. Conversely, in the β-type microfluidic device 300, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction through the channel 490 in the sensor region 493 located between the inlet body 305 and the outlet body 395 is approximately 0.08563 mm / sec to approximately 0.09634 mm / sec. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of the inlet 400 and the aforementioned configuration of the outlet 400'.

[0182] Figure 16B This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the inlet transition 485, channel 490, and outlet transition 495 of a β-type microfluidic device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment, at a rate of approximately 10 μL / sec in the XZ plane (compared to...). Figure 15 The velocity of the fluid flowing at a relatively low volumetric flow rate (approximately 10 times smaller). Figure 16BIn the exemplary embodiment, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the inlet transition 485 and channel 490 varies from approximately 0.0000 mm / sec to approximately 0.9858 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition 485 and channel 490 directly below the inlet body 305, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the inlet body 305. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the channel 490 and outlet transition 495 varies from approximately 0.9858 mm / sec to approximately 0.0000 mm / sec in the region of the channel 490 and outlet transition 495 directly below the outlet body 395, but this velocity variation region is substantially contained within the region below the outlet body 395. Conversely, in the β-type microfluidic device 300, the velocity of substantially all fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the channel 490 of the sensor region 493 located between the inlet body 305 and the outlet body 395 is approximately 0.8763 mm / sec to approximately 0.9858 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of substantially all or all of the fluid flowing in the Z direction in the channel 490 of the sensor region 493 of the β-type microfluidic device 300 is substantially uniform. This substantially uniform fluid flow is an advantageous effect of the aforementioned exemplary configuration of the inlet 400 and the aforementioned configuration of the outlet 400'.

[0183] In some exemplary embodiments, the first ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​port 405 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of channel 490 (i.e., X-dimensional × Y-dimensional) is approximately 2.0 (e.g., 1.0 mm × 2.0 mm) to approximately 11.25 (e.g., 0.25 mm × 45.0 mm) or approximately 1.0 to approximately 5.625. In some exemplary embodiments, the second ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​port 405 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) to the cross-sectional area of ​​opening 440 (i.e., X-dimensional × Z-dimensional) is approximately 2.0 (e.g., 1.0 mm × 2.0 mm) to approximately 45.0 ((2.0 mm × 45.0 mm) / 2) or approximately 1.0 to approximately 22.5. In some exemplary embodiments, the third ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​opening 440 (i.e., X dimension × Z dimension) to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of channel 490 (i.e., X dimension × Y dimension) is approximately 100.0 (2.0 mm × 50.0 mm) to approximately 15.0 (e.g., 0.25 mm × 60.0 mm) or approximately 6.67 to approximately 1.00. In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth ratio of the depth 410 of port 405 to the depth 435 at the end of inlet 400 or outlet 400' is approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the fifth ratio of the depth 410 of port 405, the depth 435 at the end of inlet 400 or outlet 400', and the height 415 at or near port 405 is approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0 to approximately 3.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the sixth ratio of the height of channel 490 and the depth 410 of port 405, and the depth 435 at the end of inlet 400 or outlet 400' and the height 415 at or near port 405, is approximately 0.25 to approximately 1.0 to approximately 2.0 to approximately 3.0, or approximately 1.0 to approximately 4.0 to approximately 8.0 to approximately 12.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of inlet 400 or outlet 400' in the XZ plane is a bow shape (i.e., similar to a clothing accessory called a bow worn around the neck) or a venturi shape. In some exemplary embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of inlet 400 or outlet 400' in the XY plane is an arc shape (i.e., similar to a bow used for archery) or a bracket shape (i.e., similar to a left bracket ("{") or a right bracket ("}")).

[0184] γ-type microfluidic devices

[0185] Figure 17This is a planar wireframe view highlighting the velocity of fluid flowing at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 1,000 μL / sec in the XZ plane at the inlet transition 485A, the channel 490A (which may be a test channel), and the outlet transition 495A of a γ-type microfluidic device 300A according to an exemplary embodiment. The γ-type microfluidic device 300A can be substantially similar to the β-type microfluidic device 300; thus, similar structures are numbered in a similar manner, and some similar structures are omitted for brevity. One difference between the γ-type microfluidic device 300A and the β-type microfluidic device 300 may be that the inlet 400A and outlet 400'A do not gradually narrow in the XZ plane (compared to the inlet 400 and outlet 400' of the β-type microfluidic device 300). That is, each of the inlet 400A and outlet 400'A is not tapered from the port to both ends, but may have a uniform depth in the Z direction. The depth of each of the inlet 400A and outlet 400'A (including their respective ports) can be approximately 1.0 mm. This exemplary design shows that an inlet conduit tapering shape in the Z direction can be provided to achieve uniform velocity in channel 490A.

[0186] For example, such as Figure 17 As shown, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the inlet transition section 485A and channel 490A varies from approximately 0.046 mm / sec to approximately 0.103 mm / sec in the region of the inlet transition section 485A and channel 490A directly below the inlet body 305A. Similarly, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the Z-direction in the channel 490A and outlet transition section 495A varies from approximately 0.103 mm / sec to approximately 0.046 mm / sec in the region of the channel 490A and outlet transition section 495A directly below the outlet body 395A. In most of the sensor region 493A of the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, the velocity in the Z-direction is approximately 0.080 mm / sec to approximately 0.091 mm / sec. However, in Figure 17 In the exemplary embodiment, within the generally semi-circular region 491A (marked with dashed lines) of the sensor region near the ports 400A and 400'A of the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, the velocity in the Z direction is approximately 0.091 mm / sec to approximately 0.103 mm / sec. In other words, the velocity of most of the fluid flowing in the Z direction through the channel 490A in the sensor region 493A of the γ-type microfluidic device 300A is substantially uniform. By... Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B (especially) Figure 14 and Figure 15 )and Figure 17 The comparison shows that, relative to omitting this tapered shape design ( Figure 17 ), to the tapered region 420 and the curved and tapered region 430 ( Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B Especially Figure 14 and Figure 15 The tapered shape of the device provides a substantially uniform velocity improvement in channel 490. Moreover, in the case of the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, there is a relatively small difference between the maximum observation velocity (approximately 0.103 mm / sec) and the minimum observation velocity (approximately 0.046 mm / sec) compared to the difference observed in the case of the β-type microfluidic device 300.

[0187] δ-type microfluidic devices

[0188] Figure 18 This is a perspective wireframe view of a δ-type microfluidic device 500 according to an exemplary embodiment. The δ-type microfluidic device 500 may be substantially similar to the α-type microfluidic device 100, the β-type microfluidic device 300, or the γ-type microfluidic device 300A; thus, similar structures are numbered in a similar manner, and some similar structures are omitted for brevity. One difference between the δ-type microfluidic device 500 and the α-type microfluidic device 100, the β-type microfluidic device 300, or the γ-type microfluidic device 300A may be the shape of the ports. Instead of the generally linear shape provided for the α-type microfluidic device 100 and the β-type microfluidic device 300 or the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, for the δ-type microfluidic device 500, the ports of the inlet 600 and the outlet 600' may have a cylindrical shape. Similar to the β-type microfluidic device 300 or the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, the δ-type microfluidic device 500 may not include the gradually narrowing inlet 600 and outlet 600' in the XZ plane (compared to the inlet 200 and outlet 200' of the α-type microfluidic device 100).

[0189] Any one or more features of the α-type microfluidic device 100, the β-type microfluidic device 300, the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, and the δ-type microfluidic device 500 can be combined in any combination without limitation. Any one or more features of the α-type microfluidic device 100, the β-type microfluidic device 300, the γ-type microfluidic device 300A, and the δ-type microfluidic device 500 can be omitted or copied without limitation.

[0190] Figure 19This is a diagram of process 1100 (or method) according to an exemplary embodiment. Although process 1100 below is described with reference to exemplary features of an α-type microfluidic device 100, process 1100 can be applied to any of the above-described devices, including alternatives to an α-type microfluidic device 100A, a β-type microfluidic device 300, a γ-type microfluidic device 300A, or a δ-type microfluidic device 500. Process 1100 may include a start 1105 and an end 1195. Process 1100 may include providing an inlet body (e.g., 105) including an inlet (e.g., 200) (step 1110). Process 1100 may include providing a base (e.g., 150) supporting the inlet body (e.g., 105) (step 1115). Process 1100 may include providing a channel (e.g., 290) for the base (e.g., 150) in fluid communication with the inlet (e.g., 200) (step 1120). Process 1100 may include providing an outlet body (e.g., 195) including an outlet (e.g., 200') (step 1125). Process 1100 may include providing a base (e.g., 150) supporting the outlet body (e.g., 195) (step 1130). Process 1100 may include providing an outlet (e.g., 200') in fluid communication with a channel (e.g., 290) (step 1135). Process 1100 may include receiving fluid at an inlet port (e.g., 205) of an inlet (e.g., 200) (step 1140). Process 1100 may include discharging fluid through an opening (e.g., 240) of an inlet (e.g., 200) in fluid communication with a channel (e.g., 290) (step 1145). Process 1100 may include providing substantially uniform flow of fluid over a substantial portion of the width (in the X direction) of the channel (e.g., 290) using the inlet (e.g., 200) (step 1150). Process 1100 may include providing substantially uniform flow of fluid over a substantial portion of the horizontal plane (XZ plane) of the channel (e.g., 200), using an inlet (e.g., 200), a channel (e.g., 290), and an outlet (e.g., 200'), as in, for example, at least in Figure 4B , Figures 5-8 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 27 and Figure 36 As shown in (inclusive). One or more steps of process 1100 can be reconfigured, omitted, or repeated without limitation.

[0191] In some exemplary embodiments, channel 290 may have a non-parallel plate structure. For example, channel 290 may have two or more non-parallel walls between inlet 200 and outlet 200'. Channel 290 may have a truncated pyramid shape, i.e., a pyramid with its ends removed and a straight cross-section along its entire length in the Z direction. The inlet of channel 290 may have a straight shape, the outlet of channel 290 may have a straight shape, and an angled wall may be provided between the inlet and outlet of channel 290. Inlet 200 may be smaller or larger than outlet 200'. For exemplary embodiments of channel 290 having a smaller inlet 200 and a larger outlet 200' and a straight shape, the dimensions of at least two of the four walls defining channel 290 may increase linearly from inlet 200 to outlet 200'. For exemplary embodiments of channel 290 having a larger inlet 200 and a smaller outlet 200' and a straight shape, the dimensions of at least two of the four walls defining channel 290 may decrease linearly from inlet 200 to outlet 200'. In some exemplary embodiments, the dimensions of all four walls of the linear channel 290 may be increased or decreased between the inlet 200 and the outlet 200'. The channel 290 may have a non-linear cross-sectional shape in the XY plane, such as an ellipse, a circle, a regular shape, or an irregular shape.

[0192] In one exemplary embodiment, inlet 200 may have a structure similar to any of the inlets described above (i.e., α-type, β-type, γ-type, δ-type, etc.). The outlet of the channel may be a scaled-up or scaled-down version of outlet 200'. For a frustoconical channel 290 with a straight XY cross section, the dimensions of at least two of the four walls of channel 290 may gradually increase or decrease. In this configuration, when inlet 200 is smaller than outlet 200', the dimension of channel 290 may gradually and continuously increase in the Z direction, and inlet 200 may be configured to deliver substantially uniform flow to the inlet of channel 290. As fluid travels through the gradually increasing channel 290 to the relatively large outlet 200', the velocity distribution of the fluid flowing through channel 290 decreases substantially uniformly. Conversely, when inlet 200 is larger than outlet 200', the dimension of channel 290 may gradually and continuously decrease in the Z direction, and inlet 200 may be configured to deliver substantially uniform flow to the inlet of channel 290. As fluid travels through a gradually narrowing channel 290 to a relatively small outlet 200', the velocity distribution of the fluid flowing through channel 290 increases substantially uniformly. The walls of channel 290 can be linear, curved, or irregular in shape, which can cause the velocity distribution of channel 290 in the Z direction to have linear, curved, or irregular variations. In an exemplary embodiment where the width of channel 290 is ten times smaller than the height of channel 290, in the case of a non-parallel plate structure, assuming a constant volumetric flow rate, the velocity across the width (Z direction) of the channel will be substantially uniform, except for a reduction due to the relative change in cross-sectional area.

[0193] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a (a, an)” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0194] Although at least one exemplary implementation is described as using multiple units to perform the exemplary process, it should be understood that the exemplary process can also be performed by one or more modules.

[0195] The use of terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. in this document identifies various structures, dimensions, or operations in a manner that does not describe any order, and structures, dimensions, or operations may be performed in a different order than the stated order unless a particular order is explicitly specified in the context.

[0196] The approximate language used herein throughout the specification and claims may be applied to modify any quantitative expression that allows for variation without altering its essential function. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms such as “about” and “substantially” are not limited to the specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Scope limitations may be combined and / or interchanged herein and throughout the specification and claims; such scopes are identified and include all subscopes contained herein, unless the context or language otherwise indicates.

[0197] Unless otherwise specified or obvious from the context, as used herein, the term “about” is understood to mean within the normal tolerance range in the field, such as within 2 standard deviations of the mean. “About” can be understood as within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the stated value. All numerical values ​​provided herein are modified by the term “about” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0198] In the foregoing description and claims, phrases such as “at least one” or “one or more” may precede a combined list of elements or features. The term “and / or” may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it is used, such a phrase is intended to indicate a combination of any one of the separately listed elements or features, or any one of the referenced elements or features, with any other referenced element or feature. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B,” “one or more of A and B,” and “A and / or B” all mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation applies to lists comprising three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, and / or C” all mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.” Additionally, the use of the term “based on” in the foregoing and claims means “at least partially based on,” thus allowing for the inclusion of unreferenced features or elements.

[0199] Depending on the desired construction, the subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, devices, methods, and / or articles. The embodiments set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all embodiments consistent with the subject matter described herein. Rather, they are merely examples of aspects consistent with the described subject matter. Although some variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, additional features and / or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the above embodiments may involve various combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features and / or combinations and sub-combinations of several other features disclosed above. Furthermore, the logical flows depicted in the drawings and / or described herein do not necessarily require the specific order or sequence shown to achieve the desired results. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for fluid transport, the apparatus comprising: The base has a width measured along the width direction, a length measured along the length direction, and a height measured along the height direction; An inlet body, supported by the base and including an inlet forming part of a flow path, the inlet comprising: An inlet port open at the top surface of the inlet body, a first tapering region, and a first curved and tapering region fluidly connected to the first tapering region, wherein: The inlet port is oriented along the height direction. The first tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the inlet port. The first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction. As the first tapering region extends from the inlet port, the dimension of the first tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction, the dimension of the first curved and tapered region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction. An opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; A channel located in the base and in fluid communication with the opening, extending from the opening to an opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, the channel forming part of the flow path, the width of the channel being approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; and The outlet body, supported by the base and including an outlet, forms part of the flow path, and the outlet includes: The outlet port, the second tapering region, and the second curved and tapering region are open at the top surface of the outlet body, wherein: The outlet port is oriented along the height direction. The second tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the outlet port. The second curved and tapering region extends from the second tapering region along the width direction on both sides of the outlet port. As the second tapering region extends from the outlet port, the dimension of the second tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the second curved and tapering region extends from the second tapering region along the width direction, the dimension of the second curved and tapering region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction, wherein the channel extends between the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body and the opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, and The opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, wherein: The width of the channel is approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the outlet body.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The primary direction of the flow path through the channel is the length direction.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet body, the channel, and the outlet body are configured to provide fluid flow through a straight region within the channel.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device is a microfluidic device, and the channel is a microfluidic channel.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet body, the base, and the outlet body form an integral unit.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet body includes a single inlet of the device, the channel is a single channel of the device, and the outlet body includes a single outlet of the device.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the entrance port perpendicular to the height direction to the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel entrance perpendicular to the length direction is 1 to 7.

5.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the entrance port perpendicular to the height direction to the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening perpendicular to the height direction is 1 to 50.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening perpendicular to the height direction to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet of the channel perpendicular to the length direction is 6.67 to 1.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the depth measured along the length direction at the entrance port to the depth measured along the length direction at the end of the curved and tapering region is 1:

2.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the depth of the inlet port measured along the length direction to the depth at the end of the curved and tapering region measured along the length direction to the height at or near the inlet port measured along the height direction is 1:2:

3.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the height of the channel measured along the height direction to the depth of the entrance port measured along the length direction, and the depth at the end of the curved and tapering region measured along the length direction to the height at or near the entrance port measured along the height direction is 1:4:8:

12.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the width of the opening measured along the width direction to the depth measured along the length direction is 25 to 1.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the width of the channel measured along the width direction to the height measured along the height direction is 180 to 1.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The cross-sectional shape of at least one side of the inlet and / or the outlet in the horizontal plane is venturi-shaped, and the at least one side is opposite to the channel.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, Both sides of the inlet and / or the outlet have a Venturi shape in the horizontal plane.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet and / or the outlet have an arc-shaped or bracket-shaped cross-section in the vertical plane, with the arc-shaped or bracket-shaped opening facing the base.

18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet port has a rectangular cross-sectional shape in the horizontal plane.

19. A microfluidic system for fluid transport, the microfluidic system comprising: Microfluidic device, comprising: The base has a width measured along the width direction, a length measured along the length direction, and a height measured along the height direction; An inlet body, supported by the base and including an inlet forming part of a flow path, the inlet comprising: An inlet port open at the top surface of the inlet body, a first tapering region, and a first curved and tapering region fluidly connected to the first tapering region, wherein: The inlet port is oriented along the height direction. The first tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the inlet port. The first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction. As the first tapering region extends from the inlet port, the dimension of the first tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction, the dimension of the first curved and tapered region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction. An opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; A channel located in the base and in fluid communication with the opening and extending from the opening to an opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, the channel forming part of the flow path, the width of the channel being approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; One or more sensors are formed on the surface of the channel or in one or more grooves formed in the surface of the channel; and The outlet body, supported by the base and including an outlet, forms part of the flow path, and the outlet includes: The outlet port, the second tapering region, and the second curved and tapering region are open at the top surface of the outlet body, wherein: The outlet port is oriented along the height direction. The second tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the outlet port. The second curved and tapering region extends from the second tapering region along the width direction on both sides of the outlet port. As the second tapering region extends from the outlet port, the dimension of the second tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the second curved and tapering region extends from the second tapering region along the width direction, the dimension of the second curved and tapering region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction, wherein the channel extends between the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body and the opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, and The opening located at the bottom of the outlet body, wherein: The width of the channel is approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the outlet body. The channel is configured to facilitate the flow of the fluid, and The fluid comprises multiple beads and / or suspended units.

20. The microfluidic system according to claim 19, wherein, Each of the plurality of beads has a maximum size ranging from 10 μm to 160 μm. Each of the plurality of levitation units has a maximum size of 10μm to 50μm, and 150,000 sensors are formed on the surface of the channel, or 150,000 sensors are formed in 150,000 grooves formed in the surface of the channel.

21. An apparatus for fluid transport, the apparatus comprising: The base has a width measured along the width direction, a length measured along the length direction, and a height measured along the height direction; An inlet body, supported by the base and including an inlet forming part of a flow path, the inlet comprising: An inlet port open at the top surface of the inlet body, a first tapering region, and a first curved and tapering region fluidly connected to the first tapering region, wherein: The inlet port is oriented along the height direction. The first tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the inlet port. The first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction. As the first tapering region extends from the inlet port, the dimension of the first tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction, the dimension of the first curved and tapered region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction. An opening located at the bottom of the entrance body; and A channel located in the base and in fluid communication with the opening, the channel forming part of the flow path, the width of the channel being approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body.

22. A microfluidic system for fluid transport, the microfluidic system comprising: Microfluidic device, comprising: The base has a width measured along the width direction, a length measured along the length direction, and a height measured along the height direction; An inlet body, supported by the base and including an inlet forming part of a flow path, the inlet comprising: An inlet port open at the top surface of the inlet body, a first tapering region, and a first curved and tapering region fluidly connected to the first tapering region, wherein: The inlet port is oriented along the height direction. The first tapering region extends along the width direction on both sides of the inlet port. The first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction. As the first tapering region extends from the inlet port, the dimension of the first tapering region along the length direction increases, and As the first curved and tapered region extends from the first tapered region along the width direction, the dimension of the first curved and tapered region increases along the length direction and decreases along the height direction. An opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; A channel located in the base and in fluid communication with the opening, the channel forming part of the flow path, the width of the channel being approximately equal to the width of the opening located at the bottom of the inlet body; and One or more sensors are formed on the surface of the channel or in one or more grooves formed in the surface of the channel, wherein, The channel is configured to facilitate the flow of the fluid, and The fluid comprises multiple beads and / or suspended units.

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