Biochemical Flow Cells with Slit Inlets for Uniform Fluid Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow cells for biochemical assays suffer from non-uniform fluid dispensing due to artificial restrictors, leading to uneven experimental conditions and restricted operational flexibility due to permanent fluid connections.
Innovation Solution
The development of flow cells with sealed inlets and outlets, featuring slit-like channels that allow for uniform fluid distribution and the use of make-and-break seals for temporary fluid connections, enabling uniform pressure distribution and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If artificial restrictors are used for fluid dispensing, then fluid flow can be controlled, but uniformity of fluid distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes artificial restrictors from the fluid dispensing system entirely. Instead of using restrictors to control fluid flow, the invention uses the natural capillary action and surface tension properties of the microfluidic channels to achieve both flow control and uniform distribution without complex restricting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic system utilizes self-service through capillary action, where the channel geometry and surface properties automatically regulate fluid flow and distribution. The channels are designed with specific width, depth, and surface energy characteristics that enable spontaneous uniform fluid dispensing without external control mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If permanent fluid connections are used, then fluid delivery is reliable, but operational flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic fluid connections that can transition between connected and disconnected states. The system uses movable components such as valves and connectors that can be actuated to establish or break fluid pathways, enabling the same system to maintain reliable connections when needed while providing flexibility to reconfigure or disconnect operations.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional flow cells are used, then device structure is simple, but bio-reaction area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the bio-reaction area by utilizing three-dimensional microfluidic channel networks within the flow cell substrate. Instead of relying solely on a two-dimensional surface area, the invention creates multiple interconnected channels and chambers that provide extensive reaction pathways and increased effective surface area for biochemical reactions through vertical and lateral spatial utilization.
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 enhances the uniformity of fluid dispensing across the array chip, reduces reagent consumption, and allows for more efficient biochemical experiments with increased bio-reaction area and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid pressure is substantially equal along the entire length of the slit
Implementation Method 2
make-and-break seals for temporary fluid connections
Data Source
AI summary
Biochemical flow cells having sealed inlets and outlets are provided for performing high-volume assays on macromolecules. In one example embodiment, a flow cell with detachable inlet and outlet connectors comprises an inlet manifold, a coverslip, and a substrate disposed below the coverslip to form a reaction chamber, where the substrate is disposed to partially cover the inlet manifold such that a slit is formed along an entire edge of the substrate where fluids can flow from the inlet manifold through the slit, around substantially the entire edge of the substrate, and into the reaction chamber at equalized pressure and without bubbles. In another embodiment, a flow cell comprises an outlet manifold, two or more flow regions each connected to its own loading port via its own flow distribution funnel, each loading port connected to the outlet manifold, and plugs in a wall of the outlet manifold opposite each loading port, such that when a plug is absent from the wall of the outlet manifold, a loading tip may be inserted in its place, passing through the outlet manifold and connecting directly to a loading port.