Waste collection system for microfluidic device

Abstract

An encasement can be provided with a microfluidic device for collection of liquid waste from the microfluidic device. The encasement comprises a plurality of encasement vias, a plurality of overflow channels and an absorbent chamber. Each of the plurality of encasement vias is capable of connecting to a plurality of microfluidic device vias and further a fluid in the encasement via is capable of either flowing from the encasement via into one of the plurality of overflow channels or flowing from the encasement via in the microfluidic device.

Description

WASTE COLLECTION SYSTEM FOR MICROFLUIDIC DE VICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 654,198, filed May 31, 2024, and US Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 812,948, filed May 28, 2025, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] Described herein are passive devices for the collection of liquid waste from microfluidic devices.BACKGROUND

[0003] The operation of microfluidic devices often requires the input of various reagents, samples, and buffers at different steps of a chemical or physical process or analysis. Usually, liquid waste is generated that must be removed and contained, and many benchtop or standalone platforms use mechanical waste handling systems with vacuum pumps, tubing, manifold, and liquid waste containers. Mechanical waste handling systems are often cumbersome, bulky, and require alignment / positioning relative to the microfluidic device. Extensive maintenance and cleaning are normally needed to maintain acceptable operation and to reduce the chance of carryover or cross contamination between samples or experimental runs. Mechanical systems can be plagued by failure modes including improper positioning / alignment, bubbles (air, water, oil, etc.), and impeded or blocked fluid flow from pinched tubing, solids such as dust, debris, particulates, salt crystals, and sample components. Additionally, the use of mechanical components typically requires electromechanical control systems and appropriate firmware and software to regulate the process appropriately. Methods to eliminate or reduce the complexity of these systems can offer a substantial benefit in terms of reducing the instrumentation complexity, cost, and maintenance burden.SUMMARY

[0004] Described herein are passive devices for the collection of liquid waste from microfluidic devices.

[0005] Embodiment 1 is an encasement for a microfluidic device, comprising: a. a plurality of encasement vias each comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening, wherein the encasement via is capable of receiving fluid flow through the first opening; b. a plurality of overflow channels, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a first channel end and a second channel end, wherein the firstchannel end of each of the plurality of overflow channels connects to one or more of the plurality of encasement vias through the second opening; and c. an absorbent chamber, wherein the absorbent chamber connects to the plurality of overflow channels through the second channel end, wherein when the encasement comprises a microfluidic device having a proximal end and a distal end relative to the center of the encasement, with a plurality of microfluidic device vias at the proximal end, each of the plurality of encasement vias is capable of connecting to the microfluidic device via through the third opening and further wherein a fluid in the encasement via is capable of either flowing from the encasement via into one of the plurality of overflow channels through the second opening or flowing from the encasement via into the microfluidic device through the third opening.

[0006] Embodiment 2 is the encasement of embodiment 1, wherein the first opening is on an exterior surface of the encasement.

[0007] Embodiment 3 is the encasement of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the first opening is higher than the second opening and the second opening is higher than the third opening.

[0008] Embodiment 4 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the third opening is on an exterior surface of the encasement.

[0009] Embodiment 5 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the third opening is on the surface of the encasement proximate to the microfluidic device.

[0010] Embodiment 6 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the first opening is opposite the third opening.

[0011] Embodiment 7 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the third opening and the second opening are not parallel to each other.

[0012] Embodiment 8 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the third opening and the second opening are perpendicular to each other.

[0013] Embodiment 9 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein the first opening is configured to interface with a pipette tip, optionally wherein the first opening and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal.

[0014] Embodiment 10 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises an absorbent pad.

[0015] Embodiment 11 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein the overflow channel is a capillary channel.

[0016] Embodiment 12 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the plurality of encasement vias comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight encasement vias.

[0017] Embodiment 13 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-12, wherein each of the plurality of encasement vias has the same configuration.

[0018] Embodiment 14 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-13, wherein if there is fluid in any one or more of the plurality of encasement vias, the fluid enters the overflow channel through the second opening if the height of the fluid in the encasement via rises to at least the second opening.

[0019] Embodiment 15 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-14, wherein the volume of the inside of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is 100 nL to 1 mL or 100 nL - 100 pL.

[0020] Embodiment 16 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-15, wherein the encasement comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight overflow channels.

[0021] Embodiment 17 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-16, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels has the same length, width, and depth.

[0022] Embodiment 18 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-16, wherein the plurality of overflow channels comprises overflow channels of varying lengths, further optionally wherein the varying lengths are configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels within the absorbent pad.

[0023] Embodiment 19 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-18, wherein the encasement comprises multiple absorbent pads, optionally wherein a first absorbent pad is stacked on top of a second absorbent pad, or optionally wherein a first absorbent pad is separated from a second absorbent pad.

[0024] Embodiment 20 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-19, wherein the encasement comprises only one absorbent pad.

[0025] Embodiment 21 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-20, wherein the encasement comprises one absorbent pad per each overflow channel, optionally wherein each absorbent pad is separated from each other absorbent pad to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels.

[0026] Embodiment 22 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-21, wherein each point at which the overflow channels connect to the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad is spaced apart from each other point by a distance of at least the diameter of one of the plurality of encasement vias or by a distance such that each overflow channel comprises the same amount of pad area, wherein the spacing is configured to improve the uniformity of thedraw of fluid from each of the overflow channels to a corresponding zone of the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad and / or is configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels within the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad, as compared to an absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad where each point at which the overflow channels connect to the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad is not so spaced apart from each other point.

[0027] Embodiment 23 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-22, wherein the depth of each of the overflow channels is less than the depth of the one or more of the plurality of encasement vias to which it connects.

[0028] Embodiment 24 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-23, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels is straight or arcuate.

[0029] Embodiment 25 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-24, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is narrower than the width of a microbead.

[0030] Embodiment 26 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-25, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a depth of 1 pm - 5 mm, 5 pm - 2 mm, 10 pm - 1 mm, 100 pm - 750 pm, or 500 pm - 650 pm.

[0031] Embodiment 27 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a permeable membrane, a sintered frit, porous media, and / or is patterned with posts and / or slits.

[0032] Embodiment 28 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-27, wherein one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is cylindrical.

[0033] Embodiment 29 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-28, wherein one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is tapered.

[0034] Embodiment 30 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-29, wherein the diameter of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, or 250 pm - 3 mm.

[0035] Embodiment 31 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-30, wherein the encasement comprises an encasement common port that is capable of coupling to the microfluidic device, optionally wherein the encasement comprises at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five common ports.

[0036] Embodiment 32 is the encasement of embodiment 31, wherein the encasement common port is configured to interface with a pipette tip, optionally wherein the encasement common port and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal.

[0037] Embodiment 33 is the encasement of embodiment 31 or 32, wherein the encasement comprises a ridge that encircles the encasement common port.

[0038] Embodiment 34 is the encasement of embodiment 33, wherein if liquid is spilled from or near the encasement common port, the ridge is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device.

[0039] Embodiment 35 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 31-34, wherein the encasement comprises a trough around the encasement common port.

[0040] Embodiment 36 is the encasement of embodiment 35, wherein if liquid is spilled from or near the encasement common port, the trough is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device.

[0041] Embodiment 37 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-36, wherein the encasement comprises a single piece or comprises a composite of several pieces.

[0042] Embodiment 38 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-37, wherein the encasement comprises a composite of several pieces.

[0043] Embodiment 39 is the encasement of embodiment 38, wherein the several pieces are attached to one another with one or more layers of adhesive.

[0044] Embodiment 40 is the encasement of embodiment 39, wherein the adhesive comprises adhesive foam or closed-cell foam, optionally wherein the adhesive foam is doublesided adhesive foam tape, further optionally wherein the tape is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

[0045] Embodiment 41 is the encasement of embodiment 39 or 40, wherein each layer of adhesive has a thickness of 1 pm - 5 mm, 1 pm - 1 mm, 1 pm - 500 pm, 1 pm - 200 pm.

[0046] Embodiment 42 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 37-41, wherein each piece of the encasement has a thickness of 1 mm or less.

[0047] Embodiment 43 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 37-42, wherein the several pieces are attached to one another using glues, epoxies, light activated adhesives, urethanes, acrylates, room temperature vulcanization (RTV) rubbers, catalyzed rubbers, solvent-based glues or pure solvent welding methods, ultrasonic welding, laser welding (e.g. using a clear cover layer with a dark pigmented base layer to allow localized heat from a laser to fuse the interface between the two layers), glass bonding, and / or mechanical fixturing with or without gaskets.

[0048] Embodiment 44 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-43, wherein the encasement has a thickness of 3 mm thick or less at any point.

[0049] Embodiment 45 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-44, wherein the connection between one or more of the plurality of encasement vias of the encasement and the microfluidic device via is fluid-tight.

[0050] Embodiment 46 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the encasement further comprises a cover layer, optionally wherein the cover layer comprises an absorbent-chamber cover layer and / or a microfluidic-device cover layer, further optionally wherein the cover layer comprises plastic.

[0051] Embodiment 47 is the encasement of embodiment 46, wherein the cover layer is an absorbent-chamber cover layer, optionally wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises plastic.

[0052] Embodiment 48 is the encasement of embodiment 47, wherein the absorbentchamber cover layer covers all or part of an exterior surface of the absorbent chamber.

[0053] Embodiment 49 is the encasement of embodiment 47 or 48, wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises tape on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape or pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

[0054] Embodiment 50 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-49, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, and wherein a microfluidic-device cover layer covers all or part of the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device, optionally wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises plastic.

[0055] Embodiment 51 is the encasement of embodiment 50, wherein the microfluidicdevice cover layer comprises tape on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape or PSA tape.

[0056] Embodiment 52 is the encasement of embodiment 50 or 51, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer is removeable to expose the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device.

[0057] Embodiment 53 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 50-52, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises an opening above the microfluidic device common port and the encasement common port.

[0058] Embodiment 54 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 50-53, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer extends beyond the distal end of the microfluidic device and extends beyond the encasement.

[0059] Embodiment 55 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 50-54, wherein the encasement comprises an adhesive layer on the second exterior surface of the microfluidic device.

[0060] Embodiment 56 is the encasement of embodiment 55, wherein the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

[0061] Embodiment 57 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 46-56, wherein the cover layer comprises tape, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape.

[0062] Embodiment 58 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-57, wherein the encasement comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, polypropylene (PP) plastic, polyethylene (PE) plastic, HDPE high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, LDPE low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic, acrylic, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), cyclic olefin polymer (COP), polycarbonate, fluoropolymer, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) plastic, silicone, glass, silicon, and / or metal.

[0063] Embodiment 59 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-58, wherein the encasement comprises a length dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm.

[0064] Embodiment 60 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-59, wherein the encasement comprises a width dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm.

[0065] Embodiment 61 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-60, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is hydrophilic.

[0066] Embodiment 62 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-61, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is treated with oxygen plasma, UV, ozone, flame ionization, silanization, polymer grafting, or other suitable treatment to render the overflow channel hydrophilic, optionally wherein the treatment is applied using a masking step or a screen-printing step, optionally a photolithographic masking step.

[0067] Embodiment 63 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-62, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is open.

[0068] Embodiment 64 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-63, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is enclosed.

[0069] Embodiment 65 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 46-64, wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises an air vent.

[0070] Embodiment 66 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-65, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises a network of capillaries, a hydrophilic post array, and / or a network of pillars.

[0071] Embodiment 67 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-66, wherein the absorbent pad comprises TechniCloth® TX612 dry nonwoven cleanroom wipers or Cytiva® VF2 Bound Glass Fiber.

[0072] Embodiment 68 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-66, wherein the absorbent pad comprises polyester and cellulose.

[0073] Embodiment 69 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-68, wherein the absorbent pad is at least 3-ply, 4-ply, 5-ply, 6-ply, 7-ply, 8-ply, 9-ply, or 10-ply.

[0074] Embodiment 70 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-69, wherein the absorbent pad comprises a thickness of 1 pm - 30 mm, 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, 100 pm - 2.5 mm, 100 pm - 1 mm.

[0075] Embodiment 71 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-70, wherein the absorbent pad is capable of absorbing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic fluids.

[0076] Embodiment 72 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-71, wherein the absorbent pad protrudes into the overflow channels and / or comprises one or more extensions that contact a wall of the absorbent chamber.

[0077] Embodiment 73 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-72, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises an absorbent material, optionally wherein the absorbent material comprises a desiccant, gel, hydrogel, glass-fiber, and / or hydrophilic polymer, optionally wherein the hydrophilic polymerase are acrylates, acrylate polymers, and their salts.

[0078] Embodiment 74 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-73, wherein the absorbent pad is patterned with wax or plastic.

[0079] Embodiment 75 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-74, wherein the absorbent pad comprises cuts folds, or pleats.

[0080] Embodiment 76 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 10-75, wherein the absorbent pad comprises high-density and low-density areas.

[0081] Embodiment 77 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-76, wherein the encasement further comprises the microfluidic device.

[0082] Embodiment 78 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-77, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a plurality of microwells.

[0083] Embodiment 79 is the encasement of embodiment 78, wherein the plurality of microwells are provided in a density of 6,000 wells / cm2- 2,000,000 wells / cm2.

[0084] Embodiment 80 is the encasement of embodiment 78 or 79, wherein the plurality of microwells have a volumetric capacity of - 1 aL (attoliters) - 100 pL.

[0085] Embodiment 81 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-80, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a plurality of flow cells, wherein each of the plurality of flow cells has a length dimension corresponding to a direction between a microfluidic device common port on the distal end and a microfluidic device via on the proximal end.

[0086] Embodiment 82 is the encasement of embodiment 81, wherein at least a portion of the length dimension is configured as a straight or arcuate length segment.

[0087] Embodiment 83 is the encasement of embodiment 82, wherein each of the plurality of flow cells comprises a plurality of sets of microwells positioned along the straight or arcuate length segment of the length dimension.

[0088] Embodiment 84 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 81-83, wherein the plurality of microwells of each of the plurality of flow cells have a common configuration, wherein the plurality of microwells of each of the flow cells are aligned with each other in rows and / or columns, and wherein the plurality of flow cells hold respective input material in fluid isolation from each other.

[0089] Embodiment 85 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 81-84, wherein at least a plurality of microwells for a respective flow cell each comprise microwells with a quantity that is in a range of 1,000-1,000,000, and wherein the microwells are sized and configured to hold and retain a single bead thereby allowing for 1,000 - 1 billion reactions in the microfluidic device.

[0090] Embodiment 86 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-85, wherein microfluidic device comprises 2 - 2000 flow cells.

[0091] Embodiment 87 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 81-86: a. wherein the plurality of microwells in the plurality of flow cells are arranged in rows, columns, or rows and columns, and wherein the rows or the columns correspond to the straight or arcuate length segment; b. further wherein the plurality of flow cells comprise at least two flow cells defining a first neighboring set and at least two flow cells defining a second neighboring set adjacent the first neighboring set, each with spatially aligned sets of microwells; and / or c. wherein the device further comprises a first gap space between each of first and second flow cells of the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, wherein the device further comprises a second gap space between the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, and wherein the second gap space has a lateral extent that is greater than the first gap space.

[0092] Embodiment 88 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-87, wherein the encasement is configured to interface with an automated pipetting instrument.

[0093] Embodiment 89 is the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-88, wherein the encasement comprises an extraction recess, wherein extraction recess opens to an exterior surface of the encasement.

[0094] Embodiment 90 is the encasement of embodiment 89, wherein the extraction recess is configured to accommodate a hook.

[0095] Embodiment 91 is the encasement of embodiment 89 or 90, wherein the extraction recess protrudes into the absorbent chamber.

[0096] Embodiment 92 is the encasement of embodiment 35, wherein the top edge of the encasement common port is recessed in the surrounding encasement.

[0097] Embodiment 93 is a method of loading a microfluidic device using the encasement of any one of embodiments 1-92, comprising: a) introducing ethanol and / or water into the encasement common port; b) introducing a slurry comprising microbeads, target to be detected, and / or loading buffer into the first opening of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias; c) moving the microbeads into the plurality of microwells of the microfluidic device, optionally using a magnet; d) introducing a polymerase chain reaction master mix into the encasement common port; and / or e) introducing a sealing oil into the encasement common port.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0098] FIG. 1 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device.

[0099] FIG. IB illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Q-Q of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 1 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] FIG. 1C illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device.

[0101] FIG. ID illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line R- R of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 1C, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] FIG. IE illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] FIG. IF illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Q- Q of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. IE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] FIG. 2 A illustrates an exploded view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement comprises a composite of several pieces.

[0105] FIG. 2B illustrates an assembled view of a microfluidic device connected to an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement comprises a composite of several pieces.

[0106] FIG. 3 A illustrates a diagonal perspective view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device.

[0107] FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 3 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] FIG. 4 A illustrates a top view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device.

[0109] FIG. 4B illustrates a diagonal perspective view of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 4 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 4B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] FIG. 4D illustrates another cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 4B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] FIG. 4E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 4 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement comprises a composite of several pieces.

[0114] FIG. 6 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] FIG. 6B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line S-S of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] FIG. 6D illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line T- T of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] FIG. 6E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line U- U of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] FIG. 6F illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region L of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6D, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] FIG. 6G illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region K of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6E, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] FIG. 6H illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line V-V of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] FIG. 61 illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line W- W of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] FIG. 6 J illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line X-X of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 6B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] FIG. 7 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Y-Y of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 7 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region J of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 7C, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Z-Z of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 7 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] FIG. 8 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] FIG. 8B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] FIG. 8C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Y- Y of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 8 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] FIG. 8D illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region J of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 8C, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 8E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Z-Z of the encasement for a microfluidic device of FIG. 8 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] FIG. 9 illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTSI. Definitions

[0135] The meaning of some terms and phrases used in the specification, examples, and claims are provided below. Unless stated otherwise, or implicit from context, the following terms and phrases include the meanings provided below. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, or apparent from context, the terms and phrases below do not exclude the meaning that the term or phrase has acquired in the art to which it pertains. The definitions are provided to aid in describing particular embodiments of the aspects provided herein, and are not intended to limit the claimed invention, because the scope of the invention is limited only by the claims. Further, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0136] As used herein, “via” refers to a cavity that is open to the air that is isolated from other vias. As used herein, an “encasement via” refers to a via in an encasement described herein. As used herein, a “microfluidic device via” refers to a via in a microfluidic device.

[0137] As used herein, “common port” refers to a place, such as a cavity, where common reagents (e.g., ethanol, water, loading buffer, PCR master mix, and / or sealing oil) can be added to the encasement and / or microfluidic device at certain points in the workflow of a method of using a microfluidic device, for example, to run an assay. As used herein, an “encasement common port” refers to a common port in an encasement described herein. As used herein, a “microfluidic device common port” refers to a common port in a microfluidic device.

[0138] As used herein, “higher” refers to, when an encasement described herein and / or a microfluidic device is oriented such that fluid does not drain out of the “top” of the encasement and / or microfluidic device (unless overfilled with fluid), a component may be “higher” than another component if it is closer to the “top” of the encasement and / or microfluidic device.

[0139] Where a range of values is provided, each numerical value between the upper and lower limits of the range is contemplated and disclosed herein and the endpoints of the range are also contemplated as included in the range.II. Detailed Description of the Drawings and Embodiments

[0140] The following is a list of numbered components shown in one or more of the Drawings.100 - encasement102 - microfluidic device104 - encasement via106 - overflow channel108 - first channel end110 - second channel end112 - absorbent chamber114 - encasement common port116 - air vent118 - first opening120 - second opening122 - third opening124 - absorbent pad126 - absorbent-chamber cover layer128 - layer of adhesive130 - fluid132 - flow cell layer with plurality of flow cells134 - microwell array with plurality of microwells136 - microfluidic device common port138 - flow cell140 - height of the fluid in the encasement via rises to at least the second opening142 - microfluidic device via200 - piece of encasement200-1 - first piece of encasement200-2 - second piece of encasement202 - first gap space between flow cells204 - second gap space between flow cells700 - ridge702 - trough704 - extraction recess706 - first exterior surface of microfluidic device708 - second exterior surface of microfluidic device710 - absorbent pad extensions900 - microfluidic-device cover layer902 - tape

[0141] FIG. 1 A illustrates a top schematic view of an illustrative example of an encasement 100 for a microfluidic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device 102. In the illustrative example of FIG. 1 A, the encasement 100 comprises a plurality of encasement vias 104. As shown, the encasement vias 104 are cavities that are open to the air at the top of the encasement 100 when the encasement 100 is right-side up. In some embodiments, a fluid flow, for example a slurry comprising microbeads mixed with a target to be detected, may be loaded into one or more encasement vias 104. Encasement vias 104 are fluidically isolated from one another. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the encasement 100 comprises a plurality of overflow channels 106. As shown in the illustrative example of FIG. 1A, each of the plurality of overflow channels 106 comprises a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110. In some embodiments, and as shown, the first channel end 108 of each of the plurality of overflow channels 106 connects to an encasement via 104. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the encasement 100 comprises an absorbent chamber 112 comprising an absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments and as shown, the absorbent chamber 112 connects to the plurality of overflow channels 106 through the second channel end 110 of each overflow channel 106. Insome embodiments and as shown, the absorbent chamber 112 comprises an air vent 116. In some embodiments, and as shown, the encasement comprises an encasement common port 114, which is a cavity where common reagents (e.g., ethanol, water, loading buffer, PCR master mix, and / or sealing oil) can be added to the encasement 100 at certain points in the workflow of a method of using a microfluidic device 102, for example, to run an assay. In some embodiments, the encasement common port 114 is configured to interface with a pipette tip. In some embodiments, the encasement common port 114 and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 is configured to interface with an automated pipetting instrument. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the encasement common port 114 is capable of coupling to a microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, but not shown in FIG. 1 A, the encasement 100 may comprise at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five common ports 114. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the portion of the encasement 100 that comprises the encasement common port 114 is separate from the portion of the encasement 100 with the encasement vias 104, overflow channels 106, and absorbent chamber 112.

[0142] In some embodiments, the plurality of encasement vias 104 comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight encasement vias 104. In FIG. 1 A, eight encasement vias 104 are shown. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of encasement vias 104 has the same configuration. For example, as shown, each of the encasement vias 104 has a round top opening and is approximately the same size. In some embodiments, the plurality of encasement vias 104 may comprise different configurations from one another.

[0143] In some embodiments, the overflow channel 106 is a capillary channel. In some embodiments, the encasement comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight overflow channels 106. The illustrative encasement 100 of FIG. 1A comprises eight overflow channels 106, with each overflow channel 106 connected to only one encasement via 104. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of overflow channels 106 has the same length, width, and depth. In some embodiments and as shown in the illustrative encasement 100 of FIG. 1 A, the plurality of overflow channels 106 comprises overflow channels 106 of varying lengths. In some embodiments, the varying lengths are configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels 106 within the absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the overflow channels 106 are straight. In some embodiments, but not shown in FIG. 1 A, the overflow channels 106 are arcuate.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 1A, an illustrative example of an encasement 100 is connected to a microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 further comprises the microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, the microfluidic device 102comprises a plurality of microwells. In some embodiments, the plurality of microwells are provided in a density of 6,000 wells / cm2- 2,000,000 wells / cm2. In some embodiments, the plurality of microwells have a volumetric capacity of - 1 aL (attoliters) - 100 pL. The exemplary microfluidic device 102 shown in FIG. 1 A comprises flow cells 138 through which fluid can flow. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 1 A, the microfluidic device 102 comprises a plurality of flow cells 138. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of flow cells 138 has a length dimension corresponding to a direction between a microfluidic device common port (and / or the encasement common port 114) on the distal end (distal relative to the center of the encasement) and a microfluidic device via (and / or the encasement via 104) on the proximal end (proximal relative to the center of the encasement). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the length dimension is configured as a straight or arcuate length segment. In some embodiments, the length dimension is configured as a straight length segment. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of flow cells 138 comprises a plurality of sets of microwells positioned along the straight or arcuate length segment of the length dimension. In some embodiments, the plurality of microwells of each of the plurality of flow cells 138 have a common configuration. In some embodiments, the plurality of microwells of each of the flow cells 138 are aligned with each other in rows and / or columns. In some embodiments, the plurality of flow cells 138 hold respective input material in fluid isolation from each other. In some embodiments, at least a plurality of microwells for a respective flow cell 138 each comprise microwells with a quantity that is in a range of 1,000-1,000,000. In some embodiments, the microwells are sized and configured to hold and retain a single bead thereby allowing for 1,000 - 1 billion reactions in the microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, the microfluidic device comprises 2 - 2000 flow cells 138. In the exemplary microfluidic device of FIG. 1 A, eight flow cells 138 are shown.

[0145] FIG. IB illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Q- Q of the encasement 100 for a microfluidic device of FIG. 1A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. IB, an absorbent chamber 112 comprises an absorbent pad 124 inside the absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, is an absorbentchamber cover layer 126 covering the encasement 100 except for the first openings 118 of the encasement vias 104, which are open to the air. A illustrative example of a cross-section of an overflow channel 106 is also shown. The cross-section illustrates how an overflow channel 106 may be partially filled with fluid 130 (illustrated by hatching), and may still leave space between the highest level of the fluid 130 and the top of the overflow channel 106 covered by the absorbent-chamber cover layer 126.

[0146] An illustrative cross-section of an encasement via 104 is also shown, with a first opening 118, a second opening 120, and a third opening 122. In some embodiments, an encasement via 104 is capable of receiving fluid flow through the first opening 118. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, the first channel end 108 connects to an encasement via 104 through the second opening 120. In some embodiments, when the encasement 100 comprises a microfluidic device 102 having a proximal end (proximal relative to the center of the encasement) and a distal end (distal relative to the center of the encasement), with a plurality of microfluidic device vias 104 at the proximal end, each of the plurality of encasement vias is capable of connecting to the microfluidic device via 142 through the third opening 122. In some embodiments, each of the encasement vias 104 lines up with a corresponding microfluidic device via 142. In some embodiments, the connection between one or more of the plurality of encasement vias 104 of the encasement and the microfluidic device vias 142 is fluid-tight. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 is configured such that, if fluid is received through the first opening 118, the fluid can either: 1) flow from the encasement via 104 into the microfluidic device 102 through the third opening 122, such as, for example, when loading a slurry comprising microbeads mixed with a target to be detected, which may then flow through a microfluidic device via 142 and into a flow cell 138 of the microfluidic device 102 to be dispersed in a microwell array with a plurality of microwells 134; or 2) in the event the microfluidic device 102 is already full of fluid, excess fluid in an encasement via 104 is capable of flowing from the encasement via 104 into one of the plurality of overflow channels 106 through the second opening 120 and eventually to the absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. IB, when the height of the fluid 130 in an encasement via 104 rises to at least the bottom of the second opening 120 as shown at the point 140, it may then flow into the overflow channel 106 — this is a liquid level feature.

[0147] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, the first opening 118 is on an exterior surface of the encasement 100. In some embodiments, the first opening 118 is configured to interface with a pipette tip, optionally wherein the first opening 118 and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. IB, the first opening 118 is at the top of the encasement 100, and the encasement 100 and microfluidic device 102 are oriented such that fluid 130 does not drain out of the top of the encasement 100 and / or microfluidic device 102 unless overfilled with fluid. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, the first opening 118 is higher than the second opening 120 and the second opening 120 is higher than the third opening 122. In this exemplary configuration, the first opening 118 is closer to the top of the encasement 100 thanthe second opening 120, and the second opening 120 is closer to the top of the encasement 100 than the third opening 122.

[0148] In some embodiments, the third opening 122 is on an exterior surface of the encasement 100. In some embodiments, the third opening 122 is on the surface of the encasement 100 proximate to the microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, the third opening 122 is on the bottom surface of the encasement 100 and the first opening 118 is on the top surface of the encasement 100. In some embodiments, the first opening 118 is opposite the third opening 122. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, the third opening 122 and the second opening 120 are not parallel to each other; rather, in some embodiments and as shown in FIG. IB, the third opening 122 and the second opening 120 are perpendicular to each other.

[0149] In some embodiments, the encasement 100 is connected to the microfluidic device 102 with a layer of adhesive 128. The microfluidic device 102 may, in some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, comprise a flow cell layer with plurality of flow cells 132. The microfluidic device 102 may, in some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IB, comprise a microwell array with plurality of microwells 134.

[0150] FIG. 1C illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device 102 comprising flow cells 138. FIG. 1C is shown to illustrate line R-R, which travels through the air vent 116 and the encasement common port 114. Shown in FIG. 1C, as shown in FIG. 1 A, are an absorbent chamber 112 comprising an absorbent pad 124, overflow channels 106 each comprising a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110, where in the illustrated embodiment, the overflow channels each connect to the absorbent chamber 112 through the second channel end 110 and connect to an encasement via 104 through the first channel end 108

[0151] FIG. ID illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line R- R of the exemplary encasement 100 of FIG. 1C, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. ID, an air vent 116 is an opening in an absorbent-chamber cover layer 126 that allows air to reach the absorbent chamber 112 with an absorbent pad 124. Also shown is fluid 130 in an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. ID, the bottom of the encasement common port 114 connects to the top of the microfluidic device common port 136 such that fluid 130 can be loaded into the opening at the top of the encasement common port 114 and flow down through the microfluidic device common port 136 and into the microfluidic device 102, and then flow from the flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells132 and into the microwell array with a plurality of microwells 134. In some embodiments, the flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells 132 comprises glass. In some embodiments, the plurality of flow cells are etched into glass. In some embodiments, the microwell array with a plurality of microwells 134 comprises silicon.

[0152] FIG. IE illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. IE, the encasement 100 is not attached or otherwise associated with a microfluidic device. As shown, there is no fluid in the encasement 100. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. IE, the encasement common port 114 is in a separate piece of the encasement 100 that is not connected to the part of the encasement 100 that may comprise the encasement vias 104, overflow channels 106 with a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110, and absorbent chamber 112 and absorbent pad. FIG. IE shows line Q-Q, which runs through an encasement via 104, overflow channel 106, and absorbent chamber 112, but does not run through the separate piece of the encasement with the encasement common port 114.

[0153] FIG. IF illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Q- Q of the encasement 100 of FIG. IE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. IF, in some embodiments there may be no fluid in the encasement 100. Similarly, in overflow channel 106, there may be no fluid. In encasement via 104, with first opening 118 and third opening 122 shown, there may be no fluid. FIG. IF shows a crosssection of an absorbent chamber 112 with an absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments and in the encasement in FIG. IF, there may be an absorbent-chamber cover layer 126. In some embodiments the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises clear plastic. In some embodiments, the absorbentchamber cover layer comprises polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises 100-500 micron-thick clear polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises 250-micron-thick clear polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer is coupled with the encasement in any suitable manner, including with a permanent or non-permanent bond. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer is non-permanently coupled to the encasement, such as by using tape, or with a friction fit lid, for example, like a coffee cup lid or a clam shell-style lid. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer is permanently coupled to the encasement, e.g., solvent welded, sonic welded, epoxied, and / or permanently glued to the encasement. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer covers all or part of an exterior surface of the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer 126 comprises tape on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement. In someembodiments, the tape is single-sided polyimide tape or pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape. In some embodiments, the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic.

[0154] FIG. 2A illustrates an exploded view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement 100 comprises a composite of several pieces of encasement 200. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises a single piece. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises a composite of several pieces. FIG. 2A shows a first piece of encasement 200-1, and a second piece of encasement 200-2. In some embodiments, there are more than two, more than three, more than four, more than five, or more than six pieces of encasement 100. In the illustrated embodiment, each piece of encasement (both 200-1 and 200-2) comprises encasement vias 104. The first piece of encasement 200-1 is contemplated as serving as the bottom layer of the encasement 100 and does not comprise overflow channels 106. In some embodiments, the several pieces are attached to one another with one or more layers of adhesive 128. It is contemplated that, and in some embodiments, the layers of adhesive 128 are considered a part of / a piece of the encasement 100. Between the first piece of encasement 200-1 and the second piece of encasement 200-2, in some embodiments there may be a layer of adhesive 128-1 that allows the first piece of encasement 200-1 to stick to the second piece of encasement 200-2. This layer of adhesive 128-1 may have an opening for forming the absorbent chamber 112. It may also have openings for forming encasement vias 104. The second piece of encasement 200-2 may comprise openings for forming: encasement vias 104, overflow channels 106 with a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110, and an absorbent chamber 112. Also shown, and in some embodiments, is an optional second layer of adhesive 128-2 that comprises openings for forming encasement vias 104. In some embodiments, the layer of adhesive 128 comprises closed-cell foam. In some embodiments, the layer of adhesive 128 comprises adhesive foam. In some embodiments, the layer of adhesive 128 comprises tape. In some embodiments, the tape is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape. In some embodiments, each layer of adhesive 128 has a thickness of 1 pm - 5 mm, 1 pm - 1 mm, 1 pm - 500 pm, 1 pm - 200 pm. In some embodiments, layers of adhesive 128 are not used to attach pieces of the encasement. In some embodiments, the several pieces 200 (200-1, 200-2, etc.) are attached to one another using glues, epoxies, light activated adhesives, urethanes, acrylates, room temperature vulcanization (RTV) rubbers, catalyzed rubbers, solvent-based glues or pure solvent welding methods, ultrasonic welding, laser welding (e.g. using a clear cover layer with a dark pigmented base layer to allow localized heat from a laser to fuse the interface between the two layers), glass bonding, and / or mechanical fixturing with or without gaskets.

[0155] Also shown in FIG. 2A is an absorbent pad 124. The absorbent pad 124 may be folded; as shown, it is contemplated to be folded such that there may be three panels stacked together, although other embodiments may contain two, four, five, six, or more panels stacked together along fold lines. As shown, and in some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises “fingers” or protrusions such that the absorbent pad 124 can protrude into overflow channels 106. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises TechniCloth® TX612 dry nonwoven cleanroom wipers. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises Cytiva® VF2 Bound Glass Fiber. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises polyester and cellulose. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 is at least 3-ply, 4-ply, 5- ply, 6-ply, 7-ply, 8-ply, 9-ply, or 10-ply. As shown in FIG. 2A, the absorbent pad 124 can be folded into a 3-ply absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises a thickness of 1 pm - 30 mm, 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, 100 pm - 2.5 mm, 100 pm - 1 mm. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 is capable of absorbing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic fluids. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 is patterned with wax or plastic. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises cuts. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises folds. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises pleats.

[0156] FIG. 2B illustrates an assembled view of a microfluidic device 102 connected to an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement 100 comprises a composite of several pieces. As shown, the microfluidic device 102 may comprise a microfluidic device common port 136 and a plurality of flow cells 138. Eight flow cells 138 are shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. 2B shows a microfluidic device 102 wherein the plurality of microwells in the plurality of flow cells 138 are arranged in rows, columns, or rows and columns, and wherein the rows or the columns correspond to a straight segment. The microwells are not illustrated in FIG. 2B, however. In some embodiments, the rows or columns correspond to an arcuate length segment. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 2B, the plurality of flow cells 138 comprise at least two flow cells 138 defining a first neighboring set and at least two flow cells 138 defining a second neighboring set adjacent the first neighboring set, each with spatially aligned sets of microwells (the microwells are not illustrated in FIG. 2B). In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 2B, the microfluidic device 102 may further comprise a first gap space 202 between each of first and second flow cells 138 of the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, wherein the device may further comprise a second gap space 204 between the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, and wherein the second gap space 204 may have a lateral extent that is greater than the first gap space 202.

[0157] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 2B, the absorbent chamber 112 does not comprise an absorbent-chamber cover layer and is open to the air. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 2B, the overflow channels 106 are open to the air. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises high-density and low-density areas. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises multiple absorbent pads 124. In some embodiments, a first absorbent pad 124 is stacked on top of a second absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, a first absorbent pad 124 is separated from a second absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises only one absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises one absorbent pad 124 per each overflow channel 106. In some embodiments, each absorbent pad 124 is separated from each other absorbent pad 124 to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels 106. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is open to the air. As shown in FIG. 2B, and in some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises “fingers” or protrusions such that the absorbent pad 124 can protrude into the overflow channels 106. As shown in FIG. 2B, in some embodiments, the second piece of encasement 200-2 is at the top, outside portion of the assembled encasement 100.

[0158] FIG. 3A illustrates a diagonal perspective view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device 102. The encasement of FIG. 3 A comprises an absorbent chamber 112, an absorbent pad 124, encasement vias 104, and an encasement common port 114. In FIG. 3 A, the encasement 100 is attached to or positioned on top of a microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3 A, the encasement 100 comprises a plurality of encasement vias 104 at one end of the microfluidic device and the encasement common port 114 at the opposite end of the microfluidic device, and the opposite ends of the encasement 100 are connected to one another by a portion of encasement that is positioned along the edges of the microfluidic device 102.

[0159] In some embodiments, although not shown in FIG. 3 A, the absorbent chamber 112 may, instead of or in addition to an absorbent pad 124, comprise a network of capillaries, a hydrophilic post array, and / or a network of pillars. In some embodiments, although not shown in FIG. 3 A, the absorbent chamber 112 may, instead of or in addition to an absorbent pad 124, comprise an absorbent material. In some embodiments, the absorbent material comprises a desiccant, gel, hydrogel, glass-fiber, and / or hydrophilic polymer, optionally wherein the hydrophilic polymerase are acrylates, acrylate polymers, and their salts.

[0160] In some embodiments, and as understood from (but not labeled) in FIG. 3 A, one or more or all of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is enclosed.

[0161] FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement 100 of FIG. 3 A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B shows a plurality of encasement vias 104. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3B, one or more of the plurality of encasement vias 104 is tapered. In some embodiments, but not shown in FIG. 3B, one or more of the plurality of encasement vias 104 is cylindrical. In some embodiments, the diameter of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias 104 is 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, or 250 pm - 3 mm.

[0162] FIG. 3B also illustrates how the overflow channels 106 may connect to the encasement vias 104. As shown in FIG. 3B, a cross-section of an encasement via 104 is shown with a first opening 118 at the top, a second opening 120, and a third opening 122 at the bottom. In some embodiments, an encasement via 104 is capable of receiving fluid flow through the first opening 118. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3B, the first channel end 108 may connect to the encasement via 104 through the second opening 120.

[0163] FIG. 3B also illustrates how the overflow channels 106 may connect to the absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3B, the second channel end 110 connects to the absorbent chamber 112. As shown in FIG. 3B, and in some embodiments, the absorbent chamber 112 comprises an absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, each point at which the overflow channels 106 connect to the absorbent chamber 112 and / or absorbent pad 124 is spaced apart from each other point by a distance of at least the diameter of one of the plurality of encasement vias 104 or by a distance such that each overflow channel 106 comprises the same amount of absorbent pad 124 area. In some embodiments, the spacing is configured to improve the uniformity of the draw of fluid from each of the overflow channels 106 to a corresponding zone of the absorbent chamber 112 and / or absorbent pad 124 and / or is configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels 106 within the absorbent chamber 112 and / or absorbent pad 124, as compared to an absorbent chamber 112 and / or absorbent pad 124 where each point at which the overflow channels 106 connect to the absorbent chamber 112 and / or absorbent pad 124 is not so spaced apart from each other point.

[0164] FIG. 3B illustrates overflow channels 106. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3B, the depth of each of the overflow channels 106 is less than the depth of the one or more of the plurality of encasement vias 104 to which it connects. In some embodiments, although not shown in FIG. 3B, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is narrower than the width of a microbead. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 comprises a depth of 1 pm - 5 mm, 5 pm - 2 mm, 10 pm - 1 mm, 100 pm - 750 pm, or 500 pm - 650 pm. In some embodiments, although not shown inFIG. 3B, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 comprises a permeable membrane, a sintered frit, porous media, and / or is patterned with posts and / or slits. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is hydrophilic. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is treated with oxygen plasma, UV, ozone, flame ionization, silanization, polymer grafting, or other suitable treatment to render the overflow channel hydrophilic. In some embodiments, the treatment is applied using a masking step. In some embodiments, the treatment is applied using a screen-printing step. In some embodiments, the treatment is applied using a photolithographic masking step.

[0165] FIG. 4A illustrates a top view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connected to a microfluidic device 102 and FIG. 4B illustrates a diagonal perspective view of the encasement 100 of FIG. 4A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The encasement of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B comprises an absorbent chamber 112, encasement vias 104, and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the encasement comprises overflow channels 106, each having a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110. In FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the encasement 100 is attached or positioned on top of a microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the encasement 100 comprises a plurality of encasement vias 104 at one end of the microfluidic device and the encasement common port 114 at the opposite end of the microfluidic device, and the opposite ends of the encasement 100 are connected to one another by a portion of encasement that is positioned along the edges of the microfluidic device 102. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, one or more of the plurality of overflow channels 106 is enclosed. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4A and 4B, the absorbent chamber 112 and the plurality of overflow channels may be covered by an absorbent-chamber cover layer 126. In some embodiments, and also as shown in FIG. 4A and 4B, the absorbent-chamber cover layer 126 may comprise one or more air vents 116.

[0166] FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement 100 of FIG. 4B, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B illustrates an encasement common port 114, encasement vias 104, and overflow channels 106. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 4C, the overflow channels 106 are not open to the air.

[0167] FIG. 4D illustrates another cross-sectional view of the diagonal perspective view of the encasement 100 of FIG. 4B, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4D illustrates an encasement common port 114, encasement vias 104, and overflow channels 106. In some embodimentsand as shown in FIG. 4D, the overflow channels 106 are not open to the air. As can be seen in FIG. 4D, the microfluidic device 102 may sit underneath the encasement 100 including underneath the encasement vias 104.

[0168] FIG. 4E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the encasement 100 device of FIG. 4A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the encasement vias 104 may be tapered at the bottom, as shown in FIG. 4E, and may comprise, as shown, a first opening 118 at the top of the encasement and a third opening 122 at the bottom of the encasement. In some embodiments, and as shown, underneath the third opening 122 at the bottom of the encasement may be a flow cell layer with plurality of flow cells 132. In some embodiments, and as shown, underneath the flow cell layer with plurality of flow cells 132 may be a microwell array with plurality of microwells 134 (microwells not shown). Cross-sectional views of several overflow channels 106 are shown.

[0169] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded schematic view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the encasement 100 comprises a composite of several pieces. The encasement of FIG. 5 A comprises an absorbent chamber 112, encasement vias 104, overflow channels 106, and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 4B, the encasement 100 comprises two absorbent pads 124, one stacked on top of the other, in the absorbent chamber 112. An encasement 100, may, in some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 5A, comprise an adhesive layer 128-3 between an absorbent pad 124 and an absorbent-chamber cover layer 126. As shown, adhesive layer 128-3 is above the top absorbent pad 124 and below the absorbentchamber cover layer 126. Another adhesive layer 128-4 is shown. In some embodiments an adhesive layer such as illustrated in FIG. 5 A by adhesive layer 128-4 may sit under the encasement 100 to connect the encasement 100 to a microfluidic device. As can be seen in FIG. 5 A, the adhesive layer 128-4 may have cavities that line up with encasement vias and an encasement common port. In some embodiments, each piece of the encasement 100 has a thickness of 1 mm or less.

[0170] FIG. 6A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The encasement 100 of FIG. 6A comprises an absorbent chamber 112, encasement vias 104, and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 6A, the encasement 100 comprises overflow channels 106, each having a first channel end 108 and a second channel end 110. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 6A, overflow channels 106 may be straight but may have differing lengths from one another. FIG. 6A illustrates a line S-S that runs through commonport 114 and from one end to the opposite end of the encasement 100. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises a length dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm. FIG. 6A also illustrates a line W-W that runs across a width of the encasement 100. In some embodiments, the encasement 100 comprises a width dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm. FIG. 6A illustrates a line T- T that runs across a width of the encasement 100 and through four encasement vias 104. FIG. 6A also illustrates a line V-V that runs across a width of the encasement 100 and through eight overflow channels 106.

[0171] FIG. 6B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B illustrates a line X-X that runs from one end to the opposite end of the encasement 100 along one edge of the encasement 100. FIG. 6B also illustrates a line U-U that runs across a width of the encasement 100.

[0172] FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line S-S of the encasement of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An encasement common port 114 is shown, as well as an absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments, the encasement has a thickness of 3 mm thick or less at any point.

[0173] FIG. 6D illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line T- T of the encasement of FIG. 6A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6D illustrates a detail region L, where a dashed circle surrounds an encasement via 104. Four encasement vias 104 are shown, each with a first opening 118 at the top of the encasement and a third opening 122 at the bottom of the encasement. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6D, each encasement via shown is tapered at the bottom, near third opening 122.

[0174] FIG. 6E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line U- U of the encasement of FIG. 6B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6E illustrates a detail region K, where a dashed circle surrounds an edge of the encasement.

[0175] FIG. 6F illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region L of the encasement of FIG. 6D, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One encasement via 104 is shown, with a first opening 118 and a third opening 122. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6F, an encasement via may be tapered near third opening 122.

[0176] FIG. 6G illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region K of the encasement of FIG. 6E, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] FIG. 6H illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line V- V of the encasement of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cross-section shows the overflow channels 106.

[0178] FIG. 61 illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line W- W of the encasement of FIG. 6 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the encasement comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, polypropylene (PP) plastic, polyethylene (PE) plastic, HDPE high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, LDPE low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic, acrylic, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), cyclic olefin polymer (COP), polycarbonate, fluoropolymer, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) plastic, silicone, glass, silicon, and / or metal.

[0179] FIG. 6J illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line X-X of the encasement of FIG. 6B, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] FIG. 7 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The microfluidic device shown in FIG. 7A comprises a first exterior surface 706. The encasement of FIG. 7A comprises an absorbent chamber 112 and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7A, an encasement comprises a ridge 700 that encircles the encasement common port 114. In some embodiments, if liquid is spilled from or near an encasement common port 114, the ridge 700 is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7A, an encasement comprises a trough 702 around an encasement common port. In some embodiments, if liquid is spilled from or near an encasement common port 114, the trough 702 is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device. In some embodiments, the top edge of an encasement common port 114 is recessed in the surrounding encasement. In some embodiments, only part of the top edge of an encasement common port 114 is recessed in the surrounding encasement. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7A, the encasement comprises an extraction recess 704. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 opens to an exterior surface of the encasement. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 is configured to accommodate a hook, for example, a hook in a supportive frame in an instrument into which the encasement, and optionally microfluidic device, can be loaded. In some embodiments, the hook slots into the extraction recess 704 and is capable of holding theencasement in place in the supportive frame. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 protrudes into the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, in order to make space for a hook to slot into the encasement without increasing the thickness of the encasement, a space is hollowed out in the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7A, the absorbent chamber 112 comprises an absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises one or more extensions 710 that contact a wall of the absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad extensions 710 are capable of increasing tension between the absorbent pad 124 and the absorbent chamber 112, which can help hold the absorbent pad in place within the absorbent chamber and pressed firmly against the second channel ends 110, which can assist in allowing liquid from the overflow channels 106 to more easily wet into the absorbent pad 124. FIG. 7A illustrates a line Y-Y that runs through common port 114 and from one end to the opposite end of the encasement. FIG. 7A also illustrates a line Z-Z that runs through extraction recess 704 and from the one end to the opposite end of the encasement.

[0181] FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7B, the microfluidic device comprises a second exterior surface 708. In some embodiments, although not shown in FIG. 7B, the encasement comprises an adhesive layer covering the second exterior surface of the microfluidic device. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is capable of protecting the second exterior surface 708 from fingerprint oil, dust, and debris, for example. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer acts as a protective sheet prior to loading into an instrument, such that when peeled off after the encasement and microfluidic device is loaded into a supportive frame in an instrument, it reveals a clean second exterior surface of the microfluidic device underneath. In some embodiments, a supportive frame in an instrument has a hole to allow a user or machine to peel off the adhesive layer from the bottom side of the encasement and remove it through the hole. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 7B, the encasement comprises an extraction recess 704. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 opens to an exterior surface of the encasement. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 is configured to accommodate a hook, for example, a hook in a supportive frame in an instrument into which the encasement, and optionally microfluidic device, can be loaded. In some embodiments, the hook slots into the extraction recess 704 and is capable of holding the encasement in place in the supportive frame. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 protrudes into the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, in order to make space for a hook to slot into the encasement withoutincreasing the thickness of the encasement, a space is hollowed out in the absorbent chamber. In other embodiments, not shown in the figures, instead of a hook, the extraction recess 704 is configured to accommodate a first connecting means for connecting the encasement to a supportive frame. A first connecting means may include, but is not limited to one or more prong(s), pin(s), screw(s), cylinder(s), spring(s), bulge(s), ridge(s), knob(s), tongue(s), spike(s), tab(s), slider element(s), or forked structure(s). In some embodiments, instead of an extraction recess, the encasement comprises a second connecting means for connecting the encasement to a supportive frame in an instrument into which the encasement can be loaded. A second connecting means may include, but is not limited to, slot(s), hole(s), notch(es), receptacle(s), hole(s) with threads, groove(s), or loop(s). In some embodiments, the encasement comprises the first connecting means and the supportive frame in an instrument comprises the second connecting means. In some embodiments, the supportive frame in an instrument comprises the first connecting means and the encasement comprises the second connecting means. In some embodiments, the first connecting means is configured to interact with the second connecting means to create a form-fitting, force-fitting, or material-fitting connection. In some embodiments, the encasement and supportive frame in an instrument are connected to one another via a snap or snaps, magnets, a clasp or clasps, interlocking teeth or gears, adhesive, or Velcro®.

[0182] FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Y- Y of the encasement of FIG. 7A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7C illustrates a detail region J, where a dashed circle surrounds an encasement common port 114 and comprises a ridge 700 that encircles the encasement common port 114.

[0183] FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region J of the encasement of FIG. 7C, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An encasement common port 114 is shown. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 7D, a ridge 700 and a trough 702 encircle the encasement common port 114.

[0184] FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Z-Z of the encasement of FIG. 7A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An extraction recess 704 is shown, along with an absorbent chamber 112. A ridge 700 is also shown.

[0185] FIG. 8 A illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The microfluidic device shown in FIG. 8 A comprises a first exterior surface 706. The encasement of FIG. 8 Acomprises an absorbent chamber 112 and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8A, an encasement does not comprise a ridge that encircles the encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8 A, an encasement comprises a trough 702 around an encasement common port. In some embodiments, if liquid is spilled from or near an encasement common port 114, the trough 702 is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device. In some embodiments, the top edge of an encasement common port 114 is recessed in the surrounding encasement. In some embodiments, only part of the top edge of an encasement common port 114 is recessed in the surrounding encasement. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8A, the encasement comprises an extraction recess 704. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 opens to an exterior surface of the encasement. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 is configured to accommodate a hook, for example, a hook in a supportive frame in an instrument into which the encasement, and optionally microfluidic device, can be loaded. In some embodiments, the hook slots into the extraction recess 704 and is capable of holding the encasement in place in the supportive frame. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 protrudes into the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, in order to make space for a hook to slot into the encasement without increasing the thickness of the encasement, a space is hollowed out in the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8 A, the absorbent chamber 112 comprises an absorbent pad 124. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 124 comprises one or more extensions 710 that contact a wall of the absorbent chamber 112. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad extensions 710 are capable of increasing tension between the absorbent pad 124 and the absorbent chamber 112, which can help hold the absorbent pad in place within the absorbent chamber and pressed firmly against the second channel ends 110, which can assist in allowing liquid from the overflow channels 106 to more easily wet into the absorbent pad 124. FIG. 8A illustrates a line Y-Y that runs through common port 114 and from one end to the opposite end of the encasement. FIG. 8A also illustrates a line Z-Z that runs through extraction recess 704 and from the one end to the opposite end of the encasement.

[0186] FIG. 8B illustrates a bottom schematic view of an encasement, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8B, the microfluidic device comprises a second exterior surface 708. In some embodiments, although not shown in FIG. 8B, the encasement comprises an adhesive layer on the second exterior surface of the microfluidic device. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 8B, the encasement comprises an extraction recess 704. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 opens to an exterior surface of the encasement.In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 is configured to accommodate a hook, for example, a hook in a supportive frame in an instrument into which the encasement, and optionally microfluidic device, can be loaded. In some embodiments, the hook slots into the extraction recess 704 and is capable of holding the encasement in place in the supportive frame. In some embodiments, the extraction recess 704 protrudes into the absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, in order to make space for a hook to slot into the encasement without increasing the thickness of the encasement, a space is hollowed out in the absorbent chamber.

[0187] FIG. 8C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Y- Y of the encasement of FIG. 8 A, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8C illustrates a detail region J, where a dashed circle surrounds an encasement common port 114 and does not comprise a ridge that encircles the encasement common port 114.

[0188] FIG. 8D illustrates a cross-sectional detail schematic view taken of region J of the encasement of FIG. 8C, connected to a microfluidic device 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An encasement common port 114 is shown. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 8D, the encasement does not comprise a ridge that encircles the encasement common port 114. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 8D, the encasement comprises a trough 702 that encircles the encasement common port 114.

[0189] FIG. 8E illustrates a cross-sectional schematic view taken along line Z-Z of the encasement of FIG. 8 A, connected to a microfluidic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An extraction recess 704 is shown, along with an absorbent chamber 112

[0190] FIG. 9 illustrates a top schematic view of an encasement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The encasement of FIG. 9 comprises an absorbent chamber 112 and an encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 9, an encasement comprises a ridge 700 that encircles the encasement common port 114. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 9, an encasement comprises a trough 702 around an encasement common port. In some embodiments, the encasement further comprises a cover layer, and in some embodiments, the cover layer comprises an absorbent-chamber cover layer and / or a microfluidic-device cover layer 900. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 9, the encasement comprises a microfluidic device comprising a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, and a microfluidic-device cover layer 900 covers all or part of the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer 900 comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises clear plastic. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer comprisespolycarbonate. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises 100-500 micron-thick clear polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises 250-micron-thick clear polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the microfluidicdevice cover layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer is coupled with the encasement in any suitable manner, including with a permanent or non-permanent bond. In some embodiments, the microfluidicdevice cover layer is non-permanently coupled to the encasement, such as by using tape, or with a friction fit lid, for example, like a coffee cup lid or a clam shell-style lid. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises tape 902 on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement. In some embodiments, the tape 902 is single-sided polyimide tape or PSA tape. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer is removeable to expose the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device. In some embodiments, the microfluidic-device cover layer 900 comprises an opening above the microfluidic device common port and the encasement common port 114. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 9, the microfluidic-device cover layer extends beyond the distal end of the microfluidic device 102 and extends beyond the encasement 100.

[0191] In some embodiments, an encasement described herein can be used in a method of loading a microfluidic device. In some embodiments, an encasement described herein is loaded to facilitate fluidically isolated reactions in individual microwells of a microfluidic device in an assay, such as PCR reactions. In some embodiments, the microfluidic device can be loaded with ethanol, water, microbeads, target to be detected, buffer, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) master mix, and / or sealing oil. In some embodiments, the bottom of the encasement common port connects to the top of the microfluidic device common port such that fluid can be loaded into the opening at the top of the encasement common port and flow down through the microfluidic device common port and into the microfluidic device 102, and then flow from the flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells and optionally into the microwell array with a plurality of microwells. In some embodiments, the flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells comprises glass. In some embodiments, the plurality of flow cells are etched into glass. In some embodiments, the microwell array with a plurality of microwells comprises silicon.

[0192] In some embodiments, the target is any analyte of interest that may be present in a sample. In some embodiments, the target comprises synthetic or natural chemical and / or biological macromolecules, nanoparticles, small molecule compounds, DNA, nucleic acids / polynucleic acids, peptides, and / or proteins. In some embodiments, the target may be one or more analyte molecules. In some embodiments, a target may be present in a sample,optionally wherein the sample is obtained from a source (e.g., a subject, water supply, food supply, etc.). In some embodiments, a target and / or sample may include one or more polar metabolites such as, e.g., amino acids and / or charged molecules, peptides, and / or proteins. In some embodiments, a target and / or sample may include one or more chemical and / or biological compound(s) extracted from a biofluid, tissue, blood, serum, urine, cell growth media, lysed cells, beverage, and / or food, etc. In some embodiments, a target may be from and / or present in an environmental sample such as, for example, a water, air and / or soil sample. In some embodiments, a target may be from and / or present in a forensic sample. In some embodiments, a target and / or sample may include a pooled sample comprising a mixture of two or more samples. In some embodiments, the target to be detected comprises a protein. In some embodiments, the target to be detected comprises a nucleic acid molecule. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid molecule is RNA, DNA, or a hybrid thereof, and is linear or branched, and can be single or double stranded, or a hybrid of single stranded and double stranded nucleic acid. In some embodiments, the buffer comprises phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). In some embodiments, the PCR master mix comprises all the reagents needed for PCR, or all the reagents needed for PCR minus the nucleic acid to be amplified and / or primers. In some embodiments, the primers are reverse primers. In some embodiments, the primers are forward primers. In some embodiments, the primers comprise forward and reverse primers. In some embodiments, the PCR master mix comprises a primer set, 1% Blocker BSA, lx Platinum Quantitative PCR SuperMix-UDG, lx SYBR Green I, and additional Platinum Taq DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the PCR master mix comprises nucleotides (dNTPs and / or NTPs). In some embodiments, the sealing oil comprises an immiscible fluid such as oil, liquid polymer, or fluorocarbon liquid capable of sealing in a manner where each microwell of the microfluidic device is fluidically isolated from its neighbors such that each PCR reaction is fully isolated. In some embodiments, the sealing oil comprises mineral oil. In some embodiments, microbeads are encoded. In some embodiments, microbeads are split into sets and uniquely encoded with a mixture of fluorescent dyes and / or quantum dots. In some embodiments, each differently encoded set is functionalized with a primer bound to the surface of the microbead through a heat-labile bond. In some embodiments, each differently encoded set is functionalized with a different primer designed to amplify a nucleic acid corresponding to a specific target. In some embodiments, microbeads from different sets can be mixed together to form panels. In some embodiments, microbeads are incubated with a sample comprising target, where the primers act as capture reagents, pulling down their specific targets from the sample if they are present. In some embodiments, microbeads are moved into microwells sized so that only one microbead fits in each well. In some embodiments, themicrobeads are magnetic microbeads. In some embodiments, the microbeads are magnetic microbeads that are capable of being moved into microwells using a magnet, optionally wherein the magnet is moved underneath the microfluidic device.

[0193] In some embodiments, a method of loading a microfluidic device comprises a step of introducing ethanol and / or water into the encasement common port. In some embodiments, a liquid, such as ethanol and / or water, is introduced into the encasement common port and flows through the microfluidic device common port and into the microfluidic device, wherein some liquid flows through a glass flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells and laterally to the encasement vias. If the level of the liquid in an encasement via rises to a height of at least the second opening, it flows into an overflow channel through the first channel end to the second channel end, which in some embodiments, is connected to an absorbent chamber. In some embodiments, overflow channels are set at a height to ensure a small amount of liquid remains at the bottom of the encasement vias, preventing the liquid in the flow cells from drying out.

[0194] In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of introducing a slurry comprising microbeads, target to be detected, and / or loading buffer into the first opening of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias. In some embodiments, multiple slurries, each comprising a sample potentially comprising target, are each introduced into their own respective encasement via. If the level of excess liquid from the slurry in an encasement via rises to a height of at least the second opening, it flows into an overflow channel through the first channel end to the second channel end, which in some embodiments, is connected to an absorbent chamber.

[0195] In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of moving microbeads into the plurality of microwells of the microfluidic device, optionally using a magnet.

[0196] In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of introducing a polymerase chain reaction master mix into the encasement common port and into the microfluidic device, wherein some liquid flows through a glass flow cell layer with a plurality of flow cells and to the encasement vias. If the level of excess liquid from the PCR master mix in an encasement via rises to a height of at least the second opening, it flows into an overflow channel through the first channel end to the second channel end, which in some embodiments, is connected to an absorbent chamber.

[0197] In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of introducing a sealing oil into the encasement common port. In some embodiments, the sealing oil flows over the microwells, creating a layer that fluidically isolated the microwells from one another. Insome embodiments, the microfluidic device is thermocycled. In some embodiments, the microfluidic device is imaged, optionally with fluorescent imaging.

[0198] In some embodiments, the method comprises introducing ethanol and / or water into the encasement common port; introducing a slurry comprising microbeads, target to be detected, and / or loading buffer into the first opening of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias; moving microbeads into the plurality of microwells of the microfluidic device, optionally using a magnet; introducing a polymerase chain reaction master mix into the encasement common port; and / or introducing a sealing oil into the encasement common port. In some embodiments, the method comprises the following steps in the following order: 1) introducing ethanol and / or water into the encasement common port; 2) introducing a slurry comprising microbeads, target to be detected, and / or loading buffer into the first opening of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias; 3) moving microbeads into the plurality of microwells of the microfluidic device, optionally using a magnet; 4) introducing a polymerase chain reaction master mix into the encasement common port; and 5) introducing a sealing oil into the encasement common port.EQUIVALENTS

[0199] The foregoing written specification is considered to be sufficient to enable one skilled in the art to practice the embodiments. The foregoing description details certain embodiments and describes the best mode contemplated by the inventors. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing may appear in text, the embodiment may be practiced in many ways and should be construed in accordance with the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

[0200] As used herein, all numbers in the specification may be considered to be modified by the term about. The term about refers to a numeric value, including, for example, whole numbers, fractions, and percentages, whether or not explicitly indicated. The fact that ranges are provided for some numbers and not others does not alter that each is modified by the term about. The term about generally refers to a range of numerical values (e.g., + / - 10% of the recited range) that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (e.g., having the same function or result). When terms such as at least and about precede a list of numerical values or ranges, the terms modify all of the values or ranges provided in the list. In some instances, the term about may include numerical values that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. Numerical ranges included herein include the endpoints of the range (i.e., any ranges herein are inclusive) unless stated otherwise.

Claims

What is Claimed is:

1. An encasement for a microfluidic device, comprising: a. a plurality of encasement vias each comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening, wherein the encasement via is capable of receiving fluid flow through the first opening; b. a plurality of overflow channels, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a first channel end and a second channel end, wherein the first channel end of each of the plurality of overflow channels connects to one or more of the plurality of encasement vias through the second opening; and c. an absorbent chamber, wherein the absorbent chamber connects to the plurality of overflow channels through the second channel end, wherein when the encasement comprises a microfluidic device having a proximal end and a distal end relative to the center of the encasement, with a plurality of microfluidic device vias at the proximal end, each of the plurality of encasement vias is capable of connecting to the microfluidic device via through the third opening and further wherein a fluid in the encasement via is capable of either flowing from the encasement via into one of the plurality of overflow channels through the second opening or flowing from the encasement via into the microfluidic device through the third opening.

2. The encasement of claim 1, wherein the first opening is on an exterior surface of the encasement.

3. The encasement of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first opening is higher than the second opening and the second opening is higher than the third opening.

4. The encasement of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the third opening is on an exterior surface of the encasement.

5. The encasement of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the third opening is on the surface of the encasement proximate to the microfluidic device.

6. The encasement of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the first opening is opposite the third opening.

7. The encasement of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the third opening and the second opening are not parallel to each other.

8. The encasement of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the third opening and the second opening are perpendicular to each other.

9. The encasement of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the first opening is configured to interface with a pipette tip, optionally wherein the first opening and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal.

10. The encasement of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises an absorbent pad.

11. The encasement of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the overflow channel is a capillary channel.

12. The encasement of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the plurality of encasement vias comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight encasement vias.

13. The encasement of any one of claims 1-12, wherein each of the plurality of encasement vias has the same configuration.

14. The encasement of any one of claims 1-13, wherein if there is fluid in any one or more of the plurality of encasement vias, the fluid enters the overflow channel through the second opening if the height of the fluid in the encasement via rises to at least the second opening.

15. The encasement of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the volume of the inside of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is 100 nL to 1 mL or 100 nL - 100 pL.

16. The encasement of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the encasement comprises at least three, four, five, six, seven, or eight overflow channels.

17. The encasement of any one of claims 1-16, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels has the same length, width, and depth.

18. The encasement of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the plurality of overflow channels comprises overflow channels of varying lengths, further optionally wherein the varying lengths are configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels within the absorbent pad.

19. The encasement of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the encasement comprises multiple absorbent pads, optionally wherein a first absorbent pad is stacked on top of a second absorbent pad, or optionally wherein a first absorbent pad is separated from a second absorbent pad.

20. The encasement of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the encasement comprises only one absorbent pad.

21. The encasement of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the encasement comprises one absorbent pad per each overflow channel, optionally wherein each absorbent pad is separated from each other absorbent pad to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels.

22. The encasement of any one of claims 1-21, wherein each point at which the overflow channels connect to the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad is spaced apart from each other point by a distance of at least the diameter of one of the plurality of encasement vias or by a distance such that each overflow channel comprises the same amount of pad area, wherein the spacing is configured to improve the uniformity of the draw of fluid from each of theoverflow channels to a corresponding zone of the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad and / or is configured to prevent mixing of fluid from different overflow channels within the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad, as compared to an absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad where each point at which the overflow channels connect to the absorbent chamber and / or absorbent pad is not so spaced apart from each other point.

23. The encasement of any one of claims 1-22, wherein the depth of each of the overflow channels is less than the depth of the one or more of the plurality of encasement vias to which it connects.

24. The encasement of any one of claims 1-23, wherein each of the plurality of overflow channels is straight or arcuate.

25. The encasement of any one of claims 1-24, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is narrower than the width of a microbead.

26. The encasement of any one of claims 1-25, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a depth of 1 pm - 5 mm, 5 pm - 2 mm, 10 pm - 1 mm, 100 pm - 750 pm, or 500 pm - 650 pm.

27. The encasement of any one of claims 1-26, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels comprises a permeable membrane, a sintered frit, porous media, and / or is patterned with posts and / or slits.

28. The encasement of any one of claims 1-27, wherein one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is cylindrical.

29. The encasement of any one of claims 1-28, wherein one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is tapered.

30. The encasement of any one of claims 1-29, wherein the diameter of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias is 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, or 250 pm - 3 mm.

31. The encasement of any one of claims 1-30, wherein the encasement comprises an encasement common port that is capable of coupling to the microfluidic device, optionally wherein the encasement comprises at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five common ports.

32. The encasement of claim 31, wherein the encasement common port is configured to interface with a pipette tip, optionally wherein the encasement common port and the pipette tip are capable of together forming a seal.

33. The encasement of claim 31 or 32, wherein the encasement comprises a ridge that encircles the encasement common port.

34. The encasement of claim 33, wherein if liquid is spilled from or near the encasement common port, the ridge is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device.

35. The encasement of any one of claims 31-34, wherein the encasement comprises a trough around the encasement common port.

36. The encasement of claim 35, wherein if liquid is spilled from or near the encasement common port, the trough is capable of preventing the liquid from flowing onto the microfluidic device.

37. The encasement of any one of claims 1-36, wherein the encasement comprises a single piece or comprises a composite of several pieces.

38. The encasement of any one of claims 1-37, wherein the encasement comprises a composite of several pieces.

39. The encasement of claim 38, wherein the several pieces are attached to one another with one or more layers of adhesive.

40. The encasement of claim 39, wherein the adhesive comprises adhesive foam or closedcell foam, optionally wherein the adhesive foam is double-sided adhesive foam tape, further optionally wherein the tape is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

41. The encasement of claim 39 or 40, wherein each layer of adhesive has a thickness of 1 pm - 5 mm, 1 pm - 1 mm, 1 pm - 500 pm, 1 pm - 200 pm.

42. The encasement of any one of claims 37-41, wherein each piece of the encasement has a thickness of 1 mm or less.

43. The encasement of any one of claims 137-42, wherein the several pieces are attached to one another using glues, epoxies, light activated adhesives, urethanes, acrylates, room temperature vulcanization (RTV) rubbers, catalyzed rubbers, solvent-based glues or pure solvent welding methods, ultrasonic welding, laser welding (e.g. using a clear cover layer with a dark pigmented base layer to allow localized heat from a laser to fuse the interface between the two layers), glass bonding, and / or mechanical fixturing with or without gaskets.

44. The encasement of any one of claims 1-43, wherein the encasement has a thickness of 3 mm thick or less at any point.

45. The encasement of any one of claims 1-44, wherein the connection between one or more of the plurality of encasement vias of the encasement and the microfluidic device via is fluid-tight.

46. The encasement of any one of claims 1-45, wherein the encasement further comprises a cover layer, optionally wherein the cover layer comprises an absorbent-chamber cover layerand / or a microfluidic-device cover layer, further optionally wherein the cover layer comprises plastic.

47. The encasement of claim 46, wherein the cover layer is an absorbent-chamber cover layer, optionally wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises plastic.

48. The encasement of claim 47, wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer covers all or part of an exterior surface of the absorbent chamber.

49. The encasement of claim 47 or 48, wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises tape on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape or pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

50. The encasement of any one of claims 1-49, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, and wherein a microfluidic-device cover layer covers all or part of the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device, optionally wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises plastic.

51. The encasement of claim 50, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises tape on at least part of its surface proximal to the encasement, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape or PSA tape.

52. The encasement of claim 50 or 51, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer is removeable to expose the first exterior surface of the microfluidic device.

53. The encasement of any one of claims 50-52, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer comprises an opening above the microfluidic device common port and the encasement common port.

54. The encasement of any one of claims 50-53, wherein the microfluidic-device cover layer extends beyond the distal end of the microfluidic device and extends beyond the encasement.

55. The encasement of any one of claims 50-54, wherein the encasement comprises an adhesive layer on the second exterior surface of the microfluidic device.

56. The encasement of claim 55, wherein the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

57. The encasement of any one of claims 46-56, wherein the cover layer comprises tape, optionally wherein the tape is single-sided polyimide tape.

58. The encasement of any one of claims 1-57, wherein the encasement comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, polypropylene (PP) plastic, polyethylene (PE) plastic, HDPE high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, LDPE low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic, acrylic, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), cyclic olefin polymer (COP), polycarbonate, fluoropolymer, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) plastic, silicone, glass, silicon, and / or metal.

59. The encasement of any one of claims 1-58, wherein the encasement comprises a length dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm.

60. The encasement of any one of claims 1-59, wherein the encasement comprises a width dimension of 1 mm - 250 mm, 2.5 mm - 100 mm, 2.5 mm - 50 mm, or 5 - 50 mm.

61. The encasement of any one of claims 1-60, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is hydrophilic.

62. The encasement of any one of claims 1-61, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is treated with oxygen plasma, UV, ozone, flame ionization, silanization, polymer grafting, or other suitable treatment to render the overflow channel hydrophilic, optionally wherein the treatment is applied using a masking step or a screen-printing step, optionally a photolithographic masking step.

63. The encasement of any one of claims 1-62, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is open.

64. The encasement of any one of claims 1-63, wherein one or more of the plurality of overflow channels is enclosed.

65. The encasement of any one of claims 46-64, wherein the absorbent-chamber cover layer comprises an air vent.

66. The encasement of any one of claims 1-65, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises a network of capillaries, a hydrophilic post array, and / or a network of pillars.

67. The encasement of any one of claims 10-66, wherein the absorbent pad comprises TechniCloth® TX612 dry nonwoven cleanroom wipers or Cytiva® VF2 Bound Glass Fiber.

68. The encasement of any one of claims 10-66, wherein the absorbent pad comprises polyester and cellulose.

69. The encasement of any one of claims 10-68, wherein the absorbent pad is at least 3-ply, 4-ply, 5-ply, 6-ply, 7-ply, 8-ply, 9-ply, or 10-ply.

70. The encasement of any one of claims 10-69, wherein the absorbent pad comprises a thickness of 1 pm - 30 mm, 10 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 10 mm, 100 pm - 5 mm, 100 pm - 2.5 mm, 100 pm - 1 mm.

71. The encasement of any one of claims 10-70, wherein the absorbent pad is capable of absorbing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic fluids.

72. The encasement of any one of claims 10-71, wherein the absorbent pad protrudes into the overflow channels and / or comprises one or more extensions that contact a wall of the absorbent chamber.

73. The encasement of any one of claims 1-72, wherein the absorbent chamber comprises an absorbent material, optionally wherein the absorbent material comprises a desiccant, gel,hydrogel, glass-fiber, and / or hydrophilic polymer, optionally wherein the hydrophilic polymerase are acrylates, acrylate polymers, and their salts.

74. The encasement of any one of claims 10-73, wherein the absorbent pad is patterned with wax or plastic.

75. The encasement of any one of claims 10-74, wherein the absorbent pad comprises cuts folds, or pleats.

76. The encasement of any one of claims 10-75, wherein the absorbent pad comprises high- density and low-density areas.

77. The encasement of any one of claims 1-76, wherein the encasement further comprises the microfluidic device.

78. The encasement of any one of claims 1-77, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a plurality of microwells.

79. The encasement of claim 78, wherein the plurality of microwells are provided in a density of 6,000 wells / cm2- 2,000,000 wells / cm2.

80. The encasement of claim 78 or 79, wherein the plurality of microwells have a volumetric capacity of - 1 aL (attoliters) - 100 pL.

81. The encasement of any one of claims 1-80, wherein the microfluidic device comprises a plurality of flow cells, wherein each of the plurality of flow cells has a length dimension corresponding to a direction between a microfluidic device common port on the distal end and a microfluidic device via on the proximal end.

82. The encasement of claim 81, wherein at least a portion of the length dimension is configured as a straight or arcuate length segment.

83. The encasement of claim 82, wherein each of the plurality of flow cells comprises a plurality of sets of microwells positioned along the straight or arcuate length segment of the length dimension.

84. The encasement of any one of claims 81-83, wherein the plurality of microwells of each of the plurality of flow cells have a common configuration, wherein the plurality of microwells of each of the flow cells are aligned with each other in rows and / or columns, and wherein the plurality of flow cells hold respective input material in fluid isolation from each other.

85. The encasement of any one of claims 81-84, wherein at least a plurality of microwells for a respective flow cell each comprise microwells with a quantity that is in a range of 1,000- 1,000,000, and wherein the microwells are sized and configured to hold and retain a single bead thereby allowing for 1,000 - 1 billion reactions in the microfluidic device.

86. The encasement of any one of claims 1-85, wherein microfluidic device comprises 2 - 2000 flow cells.

87. The encasement of any one of claims 81-86: a. wherein the plurality of microwells in the plurality of flow cells are arranged in rows, columns, or rows and columns, and wherein the rows or the columns correspond to the straight or arcuate length segment; b. further wherein the plurality of flow cells comprise at least two flow cells defining a first neighboring set and at least two flow cells defining a second neighboring set adjacent the first neighboring set, each with spatially aligned sets of microwells; and / or c. wherein the device further comprises a first gap space between each of first and second flow cells of the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, wherein the device further comprises a second gap space between the first neighboring set and the second neighboring set, and wherein the second gap space has a lateral extent that is greater than the first gap space.

88. The encasement of any one of claims 1-87, wherein the encasement is configured to interface with an automated pipetting instrument.

89. The encasement of any one of claims 1-88, wherein the encasement comprises an extraction recess, wherein extraction recess opens to an exterior surface of the encasement.

90. The encasement of claim 89, wherein the extraction recess is configured to accommodate a hook.

91. The encasement of claim 89 or 90, wherein the extraction recess protrudes into the absorbent chamber.

92. The encasement of claim 35, wherein the top edge of the encasement common port is recessed in the surrounding encasement.

93. A method of loading a microfluidic device using the encasement of any one of claims 1-92, comprising: a) introducing ethanol and / or water into the encasement common port; b) introducing a slurry comprising microbeads, target to be detected, and / or loading buffer into the first opening of one or more of the plurality of encasement vias; c) moving the microbeads into the plurality of microwells of the microfluidic device, optionally using a magnet; d) introducing a polymerase chain reaction master mix into the encasement common port; and / or e) introducing a sealing oil into the encasement common port.

Images