Diagnostic Cartridge Slider Valve for Precise Fluidic Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnostic testing systems face challenges in efficiently controlling fluidic connections within cartridges, particularly in aligning and unaligning channels and fluidic ducts for sample and reagent transport, which complicates the construction and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a movable structure within the cartridge that can align and unalign fluidic connections between channels and ducts, utilizing actuators and compression mechanisms to create fluidic pathways, allowing for precise control of fluid flow and integration of reagents and samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a movable structure with fluidic duct is used to control fluid flow, then fluidic connection control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluidic duct and channel alignment function into a single movable structure that performs both fluidic connection control and alignment functions simultaneously. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining precise control over fluid flow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a fluidic valve to control flow, provides alignment between channels and ducts, and can be actuated by various actuation mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while improving operational control.
2Measurement precision
If precise alignment mechanism is used to align channels and ducts, then fluid handling accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic alignment mechanism where the movable structure can be adjusted during operation to achieve precise alignment between channels and ducts. This dynamic adjustment capability compensates for manufacturing tolerances and ensures accurate fluid handling without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment mechanism is designed to self-align through the movement and positioning of the movable structure itself, utilizing the geometry of the channels and ducts to automatically achieve proper alignment. This self-aligning capability reduces the burden on manufacturing precision while maintaining accurate fluid handling.
3Ease of operation
If slider valve system is used to create or block fluidic connections, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slider valve mechanism is merged with the movable structure that also contains the fluidic duct and alignment features. This integration allows the single movable component to perform valve functions, alignment, and fluidic connection control simultaneously, reducing the number of separate valve mechanisms needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable structure serves as a universal component that can create, block, and redirect fluidic connections through its movement, while also providing alignment functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated valve mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
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
This design simplifies the construction and control of fluidic connections, enabling efficient fluid transport and mixing within the cartridge, facilitating accurate diagnostic testing processes.
Implementation Method 1
The cartridge may include a compression mechanism to apply force to the movable structure to push part of the movable structure against the cartridge
Implementation Method 2
The compression mechanism comprises at least one spring
Data Source
AI summary
An example cartridge includes a base having a channel configured to receive fluid, where the fluid includes a test sample to be tested on the cartridge, and a structure including at least part of a fluidic duct. The structure is configured to move relative to the base between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the channel and fluidic duct are aligned to create a fluidic connection between the channel and the fluidic duct and, in the second position, the channel and the fluidic duct are unaligned to block a fluidic connection between the channel and the fluidic duct.