Bistable Fluidic Valve Assembly Using Magnetically Coupled Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic circuits require two synchronized monostable 2/2 valves to create a 3/2 valve solution, which is complex and inefficient, as they need individual actuators and precise synchronization, whereas a bistable 3/2 valve that uses a single actuator for reliable operation without synchronization is desired.
Innovation Solution
A bistable fluidic valve device with two permanent magnets that slide within cylinders, synchronized by magnetic interaction, allowing a single actuator to control two fluidic connections, using a common flexible membrane and magnetic control members to switch between stable positions, enabling efficient operation without external energy for holding positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two monostable 2/2 valves are combined to create a 3/2 valve solution, then the valve can control three ports and two positions, but the device complexity increases due to requiring two individual actuators and synchronization mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two valve functions into a single integrated device with one actuator. The first and second permanent magnets are magnetically coupled, allowing a single actuator to simultaneously control both fluidic connections. This merging eliminates the need for two separate actuators and their synchronization systems, directly resolving the technical contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic coupling field as an intermediary between the two permanent magnets. This magnetic field acts as a mediator that transmits the actuation force from one magnet to the other, enabling coordinated movement of both valve elements without direct mechanical connection or synchronization electronics, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining functionality.
2Ease of operation
If monostable valves are used, then the valve can switch positions, but external energy must be continuously applied to hold the valve in its final position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional monostable valve approach by using bistable permanent magnets that naturally maintain their position without continuous energy input. Instead of requiring external energy to hold the valve in the final position, the magnetic coupling creates stable equilibrium positions where the valve remains latched mechanically through magnetic attraction, eliminating continuous energy consumption while maintaining switching capability.
3Device complexity
If a single actuator controls two permanent magnets, then the device complexity is reduced, but the magnets must be precisely synchronized through magnetic interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-synchronization through magnetic coupling, where the two permanent magnets automatically coordinate their movement through their mutual magnetic field interaction. The magnets serve themselves by generating the coupling force needed for synchronized operation without external precision control systems. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for high-precision manufacturing and alignment tolerances compared to mechanically coupled systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device allows for reliable, efficient operation of a 3/2 valve in microfluidic circuits using a single actuator, eliminating the need for synchronization and reducing complexity, while maintaining stable mechanical configurations through magnetic interaction.
Implementation Method 1
the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet being arranged relative to one another in such a way as to be in a first state of magnetic interaction, making it possible to obtain a first stable mechanical configuration in which the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are held respectively in their first position and in their second position by a magnetic effect alone or in a second state of magnetic interaction, making it possible to obtain a second stable mechanical configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic valve device intended to be arranged in a fluidic circuit, the device notably including a first switching assembly including a first compartment defining a first internal space and a first permanent magnet arranged with the freedom to slide in the first internal space, a second switching assembly including a second compartment defining a second internal space and a second permanent magnet arranged with the freedom to slide in the second internal space, the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet being arranged relative to one another in such a way as to be in a first state of magnetic interaction, making it possible to obtain a first stable mechanical configuration or in a second state of magnetic interaction, it possible to obtain a second stable mechanical configuration.