Centrifugal Microfluidic Device Sample Distribution Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal microfluidic devices face challenges in efficiently distributing a sample to multiple non-vented reaction chambers without relying on capillary phenomena or adding resistance to fluid movement, making it difficult to perform simultaneous reactions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A centrifugal microfluidic device with a rotatable platform, a sample chamber, distribution channels, valves, and inlet channels that utilize centrifugal force to distribute the sample to multiple non-vented reaction chambers, minimizing fluid resistance through optimized channel designs and guide protrusions, and a phase transition type normally closed valve driven by an external energy source for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a centrifugal microfluidic device uses capillary phenomenon to distribute sample to multiple reaction chambers, then the device structure can be simple, but the sample distribution speed is slow and requires waiting for fluid movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-fills multiple reaction chambers with different reagents before sample addition. When sample is added to the central chamber, centrifugal force immediately distributes it to all pre-prepared chambers simultaneously, eliminating the need to wait for sequential capillary transport. This preliminary preparation of reaction chambers enables parallel processing and rapid distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static capillary-driven flow to dynamic centrifugal force-driven flow. By rotating the microfluidic device, centrifugal force actively propels the sample radially outward to multiple chambers simultaneously, providing controllable and rapid fluid transport compared to passive capillary action.
2Measurement precision
If a centrifugal microfluidic device adds resistance to fluid movement to control flow, then flow control precision improves, but sample distribution efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical flow control mechanisms (valves, resistance elements) with centrifugal force-based control. By adjusting rotation speed, the system controls sample distribution timing and extent without physical obstructions, achieving both precision and efficiency through field-based control rather than mechanical resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls fluid flow by changing the centrifugal force parameter (rotation speed) rather than altering channel geometry or adding resistance. By modulating rotational velocity, the system precisely controls when and how far sample distributes to reaction chambers, achieving flow control precision without compromising distribution efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If a centrifugal microfluidic device uses multiple moving operations to distribute sample to multiple chambers, then distribution control improves, but the number of operations and time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sequential distribution operations into a single centrifugal rotation operation. By arranging reaction chambers radially around a central sample chamber and rotating the device, sample distributes to all chambers simultaneously in one operation, achieving comprehensive distribution control without multiple separate steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-arranges reaction chambers with different reagents in specific radial positions before sample addition. This preliminary spatial organization enables a single centrifugal operation to distribute sample to all appropriate chambers with precise control, eliminating the need for multiple sequential moving operations.
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 rapid and efficient distribution of samples to multiple reaction chambers with reduced fluid resistance, allowing for simultaneous reactions and optical detection of results without the need for additional sample movement or resistance, thereby improving reaction efficiency and speed.
Implementation Method 1
a sample distribution structure in which the fluid sample housed in the sample chamber is distributed to the plurality of non-vented reaction chambers through the distribution channel by a centrifugal force due to a rotation of the platform
Implementation Method 2
the inside of the barrier rib may clog a part of the distribution channel, and thus a fluid resistance generated when the fluid sample proceeds along the distribution channel may be less than or equal to a fluid resistance generated when the fluid sample proceeds towards the sub channel
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a centrifugal microfluidic device having a sample distribution structure and a centrifugal microfluidic system including the centrifugal microfluidic device. The centrifugal microfluidic device includes: a rotatable platform; a sample chamber which is disposed in the rotatable platform and houses a fluid sample; a distribution channel connected to an outlet of the sample chamber; a valve which is disposed in the outlet of the sample chamber; a plurality of non-vented reaction chambers which are disposed in the rotatable platform outside of the distribution channel in the radial direction; and a plurality of inlet channels connecting the distribution channel with the reaction chambers.