Diffusion-Bonded Fluidic Manifold for Compact Pump Head Reconfiguration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid chromatography systems face challenges due to large space occupation by tubes, unswept volumes leading to carryover and cross-contamination, significant time for manual tubing connections, and expertise requirements for reconfiguration, which result in delays and costs.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable fluidic manifold with diffusion-bonded layers forming microfluidic channels, allowing easy reconfiguration and reduced connections, enabling untrained personnel to perform system setup at the location of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are coupled with tubes to achieve desired fluidic path configuration, then fluidic connectivity is achieved, but system size increases and space is occupied by tubes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple tubes and connections into a single integrated manifold block where fluidic channels are formed within the block itself. This eliminates the need for separate tubes connecting multiple valves, thereby reducing system size while maintaining fluidic connectivity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold block serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides fluidic connectivity, houses valves, and defines fluidic paths all within a single component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components and reduces overall system volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connections are made to connect tubing between valves, then fluidic path is established, but time for manual installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic paths and connections are pre-established within the manifold block during manufacturing. The channels are formed inside the block and connections are pre-configured, eliminating the need for manual tubing installation and reducing setup time significantly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tubes are bent to connect components, then fluidic path is established, but tube ID varies and manufacturing tolerance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates tubes entirely by forming fluidic channels directly within the manifold block. This integration ensures precise and consistent channel dimensions controlled during block manufacturing, eliminating the variability introduced by bending and connecting separate tubes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If reconfiguration is performed by replumbing valves and fittings, then system is reconfigured, but expertise is required and time is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold block incorporates movable components such as rotating manifolds or switchable connections that allow dynamic reconfiguration of fluidic paths. This enables system adaptability without requiring complex manual replumbing, reducing both expertise requirements and reconfiguration time.
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
Reduces system size, minimizes leakage and carryover, and simplifies reconfiguration, lowering costs and setup time by enabling local reconfiguration without specialized expertise.
Implementation Method 1
Each layer is joined by bonding to at least one adjacent one of the other layers at an interface
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Described is a fluidic manifold that includes a block formed of multiple layers each bonded to at least one adjacent layer at a layer interface. Bonding may be achieved using a diffusion bonding process. The block includes one or more attachment surfaces and at least two fluidic channels. Each fluidic channel is at least partially disposed at one of the layer interfaces and has a first end at one of the attachment surfaces. Each attachment surface includes an attachment feature at the first end of one of the fluidic channels to enable a fluidic coupling of the two fluidic channels through a fluidic component. Attachment features include, for example, a compression fitting coupling body adapted to receive a conventional seal, such as a ferrule and compression screw, and a fitting body that permits a face seal or gasket seal between the fluidic component and the block.