Fluid Handling Device Droplet Isolation via Vertical Chamber Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid handling devices face difficulties in easily dispensing substances into individual wells, often requiring extensive equipment and complex methods for separating and analyzing small droplets containing analytes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid handling device with a first channel, first chamber, and second chamber configuration that allows for selective passage and capture of droplets, utilizing a holding mechanism to widen the first chamber vertically above the first channel, enabling easy separation and collection of droplets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional separation methods (PTL 1-3) are used, then droplet separation is achieved, but extensive equipment and complex operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the fluid handling process into distinct functional zones: a first channel for droplet transport, a first chamber for droplet capture, and a second channel for selective passage. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently, simplifying the overall system while enabling easy dispensing of separated droplets into individual wells.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a vertical dimension by positioning the first chamber above the first channel and utilizing gravitational force for droplet capture. This dimensional change eliminates the need for complex lateral separation mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of operation for droplet dispensing.
2Ease of operation
If conventional separation methods are used, then droplet separation is possible, but the dispensing process becomes complex and requires extensive equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the droplet from the continuous fluid stream at a specific location (first chamber) and separates it for individual handling. This extraction approach simplifies the dispensing process by providing isolated droplets that can be easily transferred to individual wells without requiring complex multi-droplet manipulation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning the first chamber vertically above the first channel and utilizing gravity, the invention simplifies droplet capture and transfer operations. This vertical arrangement eliminates the need for complex lateral positioning equipment, reducing device complexity while improving dispensing ease.
Data Source
AI summary
The objective of the present invention is to provide a fluid handling device capable of easily isolating droplets. This objective is achieved by means of a fluid handling device which includes a first flow passage through the interior of which, when a fluid containing a droplet is delivered, the droplet can move, a first chamber which captures the droplet moving through the first flow passage, a second chamber into which the droplet captured by the first chamber can move, and a second flow passage providing communication between the first chamber and the second chamber, wherein the second flow passage is capable of selectively allowing the droplet to pass, or restricting passage of the droplet.