Capillary Die Fluid Transfer Device for Minute Volume Precision
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High-throughput research applications face limitations in transferring precise, minute volumes of fluid due to the need for dilution to manage within existing sample transfer technologies, which can lead to contamination and waste.
Innovation Solution
A fluid transfer device utilizing a die configured to wick samples via capillary forces, combined with inkjet dispensing technology, enables controlled and precise transfer of minute volumes without mechanical actuation, reducing waste and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sample transfer technologies are used to transfer minute volumes of fluid, then the transfer can be performed with existing equipment, but the precision and accuracy are limited and dilution is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical pipetting systems with a capillary-based passive transport system. The capillary array device uses capillary forces to automatically draw and transport fluid samples, eliminating the need for mechanical actuation and complex positioning systems, thereby achieving high precision in minute volume transfers without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs capillary structures with controlled porosity and surface properties to enable precise fluid uptake and transport. The capillary channels are designed with specific dimensions and surface treatments that control fluid flow through capillary action, allowing accurate transfer of minute volumes without requiring complex mechanical control systems
2Ease of operation
If fluid is diluted to a larger volume to make it manageable with existing technologies, then the fluid becomes easier to handle, but waste and contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary array device is designed to be self-filling through capillary action, automatically drawing the required fluid volumes without external intervention or dilution. The device handles minute volumes directly in their concentrated form, eliminating the need for dilution steps and thereby reducing waste and contamination while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of fluid handling by operating in the minute volume regime directly rather than diluting to larger volumes. The capillary dimensions, surface energies, and flow rates are optimized for handling small volumes, enabling easy operation without dilution and thus minimizing substance loss
3Reliability
If conventional mechanical actuation is used for fluid transfer, then the transfer process is well-established, but contamination and waste are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical actuation systems with a passive capillary-based system that relies on surface tension and capillary forces for fluid transport. This eliminates mechanical contact points that could introduce contamination, while the sealed capillary structure prevents external contamination, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing harmful factors
Solution Approach 2:
The capillary channels act as intermediaries between the fluid source and destination, providing a controlled environment for fluid transport. The capillary walls serve as a barrier that prevents contamination from the external environment, while the capillary forces ensure reliable fluid movement without mechanical intervention, reducing both contamination and waste
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
Enables precise and controlled transfer of fluid volumes ranging from 1 picoliter to 10 microliters with reduced waste and contamination, allowing for single or multiple transfers and easy cleaning of the device.
Implementation Method 1
a die configured to wick the sample fluid and maintain the sample fluid via capillary forces
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a fluid delivery system are disclosed.