Capillary Microfluidic Cartridge for Low-Volume Biochemical Profiling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for profiling biochemical analytes and cell types are time-consuming, laborious, require specialized equipment, and involve large sample volumes, making them costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic device with a cartridge containing a channel network that utilizes capillary action to facilitate fluid flow without the need for specialized pumping equipment, allowing efficient, user-friendly, and high-throughput profiling of biochemical samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional profiling methods (ELISA, flow cytometry) are used, then measurement precision is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to specialized equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical pumping systems with capillary action-based passive fluid transport. The microfluidic cartridge uses surface tension and wicking mechanisms to move fluids through channels without requiring syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, thereby eliminating specialized pumping equipment while maintaining profiling functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device is designed to be self-regulating through capillary forces that automatically control fluid flow rates and timing. The porous structures and channel geometries inherently regulate fluid movement without external control systems, making the device self-sufficient and eliminating the need for complex external pumping equipment
2Device complexity
If microfluidic devices made from PDMS are used, then device integration is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases due to specialized fabrication equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from PDMS material to plastic materials that can be manufactured using conventional injection molding techniques. This parameter change in material selection enables mass production through standard manufacturing processes, eliminating the need for specialized soft lithography and micromachining equipment while maintaining microfluidic functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic cartridge is designed as a disposable, single-use component that can be mass-produced through injection molding. This approach eliminates the need for complex, reusable devices requiring specialized fabrication, as each inexpensive cartridge is manufactured independently using conventional plastic molding techniques
3Measurement precision
If flow cytometry is used for profiling, then measurement precision is achieved, but quantity of substance required increases due to large blood volume requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from the macro-scale fluid handling of flow cytometry to the micro-scale dimension of microfluidics. By miniaturizing the fluid channels and chambers to micrometer dimensions, the device achieves the same analytical functionality with nanoliter-scale sample volumes, reducing blood requirements from milliliters to microliters
4Ease of operation
If specialized pumping equipment is used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but ease of operation decreases due to training requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces active mechanical pumping systems with passive capillary-driven fluid transport. The microfluidic cartridge uses surface tension and wicking mechanisms to automatically move fluids through channels without requiring syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, thereby eliminating specialized pumping equipment and simplifying operation for users without specialized training
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 efficient, low-cost, and user-friendly profiling of biochemical samples using smaller volumes, compatible with common laboratory instruments, and reducing the need for specialized equipment and expertise.
Implementation Method 1
Capillary action causes the first fluid received in the first well to flow into the channel through the first loading port and toward the air outlet
Implementation Method 2
The second loading port has a dimension to pin the second fluid in the second well
Data Source
AI summary
A microfluidic device for profiling biochemical samples is provided. The microfluidic device includes a cartridge defining a channel network. The channel network includes a channel having first and second opposite ends. A first loading port is in communication with the channel. A well is in communication with the channel through a second loading port and is located between the first loading port and the second end of the channel. The second well is adapted for receiving a second fluid therein. An air outlet is in communication with channel at a location adjacent to the second end of the channel. The second loading port has a dimension to pin the second fluid in the second well. The first fluid received in the first well flows into the channel toward the air outlet. At least a portion of the first fluid flowing through the channel flows into the second well through the second loading port.