Diaphragm Pump Container for Controlled Microfluidic Fluid Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers for microfluidic devices struggle with controlling fluid flow rates and lack functionality beyond mere storage, especially when used with microfluidic chips.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a tubular case body, a thin film, and a diaphragm that can be punctured to control fluid outflow, integrated with a lid for storage and a removable handle for easy use as a diaphragm pump, utilizing materials with gas barrier properties and elastomer diaphragms for controlled fluid release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional container structure is used, then the container can simply house fluid, but the outflow rate of the fluid cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a thin film that can be punctured to form an outflow port, allowing controlled fluid release. The flexible diaphragm that can be pressed to regulate flow rate emerges as the key mechanism for achieving controllable outflow while maintaining a relatively simple container structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the container components, specifically using a puncturable thin film and a pressable diaphragm made of elastomer material. These parameter changes enable the container to transition from simple storage to controlled fluid delivery, achieving outflow rate control through mechanical action on the diaphragm.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional container structure is used, then the container is simple, but it cannot function as part of a diaphragm pump
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the container to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a fluid storage container and an integral part of a diaphragm pump system. The puncturable thin film and pressable diaphragm enable the container to facilitate controlled fluid delivery to microfluidic chips, eliminating the need for separate pump components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the container structure with the diaphragm pump functionality by integrating the diaphragm and thin film directly into the container body. This combination allows the container to simultaneously perform storage and pump functions, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing versatility.
3Ease of operation
If the diaphragm is exposed during storage, then the container is accessible, but fluid leakage or volatilization may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a lid made of flexible material that can cover and protect the diaphragm during storage and transportation. This flexible shielding prevents external contact with the diaphragm, thereby preventing fluid leakage or volatilization while maintaining accessibility when needed through the removable nature of the lid.
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 control of fluid outflow rates and functions as a diaphragm pump, preventing fluid leakage and volatilization, while simplifying attachment to microfluidic chips for seamless integration and operation.
Implementation Method 1
the diaphragm may be formed from an elastomer material
Implementation Method 2
the case body may be formed from a material having a gas barrier property. Furthermore, the thin film may be formed from a material having a gas barrier property
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a container with which the outflow rate of a fluid can easily be controlled, and which can be caused to function as part of a configuration of a diaphragm pump, as well as a microfluidic device and a diaphragm pump. The container includes a case body 110 that includes a tubular portion in which a fluid is to be sealed, a thin film 200 that closes an opening on one end side of the tubular portion and that is to be punctured so as to form an outflow port for the fluid R therein, and a diaphragm 300 that closes an opening on the other end side of the tubular portion.