Elastic Microchannel Device Prevents Adhesive Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microchannel devices face issues with adhesive components flowing into the channels and decreased bonding strength due to methods like bonding with adhesives or pressure/adsorption joining techniques.
Innovation Solution
A microchannel device design featuring channel units made of elastic materials, held by separate or integral holding members that compress the channel units in the thickness direction, preventing adhesive flow and enhancing bonding strength through bolted or locked configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If channel members are joined by bonding with adhesive, then bonding strength is improved, but adhesive components may flow into the microchannel and affect solutions or cells
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful adhesive component is extracted from the bonding process between channel members. Instead of using adhesive to join channel members, the patent uses direct mechanical joining methods (anodic joining, pressure bonding, or snap-fit structures) that eliminate adhesive flow into the microchannel while maintaining bonding strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary joining methods between channel members that do not involve adhesive. Specifically, anodic joining uses electrochemical oxidation to create bonding, pressure bonding uses mechanical pressure with heating, and snap-fit structures use elastic deformation - all serving as intermediaries that avoid adhesive contamination.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If channel members are joined by pressure bonding or adsorption, then adhesive flow into microchannel is prevented, but bonding strength between channel members decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the bonding parameters by using anodic joining (electrochemical parameter), pressure bonding (pressure and temperature parameters), or snap-fit elastic deformation (mechanical parameter) instead of adhesive chemical bonding. These parameter changes maintain or improve bonding strength while preventing adhesive flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite joining approaches where channel members may have surface treatments or coatings that enhance mechanical bonding strength. For example, anodic joining creates a porous oxide layer that enhances bonding, and snap-fit structures use elastic materials that provide both connection and sealing functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channel members are laminated to form microchannel, then microchannel functionality is achieved, but bonding strength between members decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The microchannel device is segmented into multiple channel members (e.g., bottom member, side members, top member) that can be independently manufactured and then joined. This segmentation allows each member to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity through strong joining methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses nested structures where side members are inserted into recesses of bottom and top members, creating an interlocking configuration. This nesting provides both the microchannel functionality and enhanced bonding strength through mechanical interlocking.
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 effectively prevents adhesive components from entering the microchannel and increases bonding strength between channel members, compared to traditional bonding or pressure-based methods, while allowing for easier assembly and reduced part counts.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the channel members being made of a material having elasticity; and a holding member which is provided separately from or integrally with the channel unit and holds the channel unit in a state of being compressed in the thickness direction
Data Source
AI summary
A microchannel device includes: a channel unit which is configured of a plurality of channel members which are laminated in a thickness direction to define a microchannel, at least one of the channel members being made of a material having elasticity; and a holding member which is provided separately from or integrally with the channel unit and holds the channel unit in a state of being compressed in the thickness direction.