Lab-on-a-chip Chamber with Integrated Cutting Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lab-on-a-chip systems face challenges in efficiently separating a sample carrier into a chamber without requiring relative movement of components, leading to inefficiencies in sample handling and processing.
Innovation Solution
A chamber design with a projection, such as a tapering edge, is used to separate a part of the sample carrier from the rest, allowing for secure sample retention and simplified manufacturing, while additional projections fix the sample carrier to prevent lateral movement and facilitate sample processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a movable cover is used to separate the sample carrier part from the remainder (WO 2010/127464), then the sample can be separated from the sample carrier, but relative movement of components is required which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber wall projection automatically performs the separation function when the sample carrier is inserted. The projection's geometry (particularly the tapering edge) enables self-cutting action through the insertion movement itself, eliminating the need for separate movable covers or actuation mechanisms. The system uses the insertion motion to trigger the separation function inherently.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation function is extracted from a complex movable cover mechanism and implemented as a fixed geometric feature (projection) on the chamber wall. The projection's shape, especially the tapering edge, is designed to perform the cutting action passively during insertion, removing the need for active separation components.
2Force
If a tapering edge projection is used to separate the sample carrier (as described in the invention), then the required separation force is significantly lower, but the projection must be precisely formed which increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The projection geometry is optimized with specific dimensional parameters, particularly the tapering edge angle and dimensions. By carefully selecting these geometric parameters, the design achieves effective sample carrier separation with minimal force while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing capabilities. The tapering edge's specific angle creates mechanical advantage for cutting.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapering edge uses a curved or angled geometry rather than a sharp 90-degree corner. This curved approach distributes the separation force more effectively and reduces the peak force required, while the geometry can be easily formed using conventional molding or machining techniques.
3Reliability
If the chamber opening is closed after sample insertion (as described in the invention), then the sample remains securely contained, but the closing mechanism adds device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The closing function is merged with the chamber structure itself. The chamber includes an integrated closing mechanism that can be actuated by the sample carrier insertion process or a simple external action. This integration eliminates the need for separate, complex closing devices while maintaining secure sample containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The chamber's closing mechanism is designed to be automatically triggered by the sample carrier insertion or a simple user action. The system self-closes without requiring complex automated actuators, using the insertion motion itself to initiate the closing sequence through mechanical interaction with the chamber's closing features.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The chamber (10) has an opening (11) for receiving a bar-shaped sample carrier (15). A projection (12) is provided in the region of opening. The projection is adapted to separate a portion (16) of the sample carrier from remaining sample carrier (17) when force of projection is extended into the recorded sample carrier of the chamber. The projection is provided with tapered edge. The chamber has a projection (13) for fixation of recorded sample carrier. The projections are integrally formed with portion of the chamber. An independent claim is included for a method for receiving sample.