Fluidic Manifold Cartridge With Pneumatic Valves for Gradient Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated perifusion systems face challenges in precisely controlling fluid flow and mixing of various liquids to simulate physiological conditions for sample analysis, as existing systems lack efficient valve control mechanisms and flexible fluid routing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic manifold cartridge system with a layered construction, including a valve layer, flexible membrane, and control gas-controlled valves, which allows for precise fluid flow direction and mixing by using control gas to open and close valves, enabling the creation of linear gradients and efficient fluid routing between multiple sources and sample containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional valve control mechanisms are used in automated perifusion systems, then the system structure is simpler, but the fluid flow control precision and mixing capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pneumatic actuators driven by control gas to operate the valves. Each valve includes a diaphragm that responds to pressure changes from control gas delivered through control fluid conduits, enabling precise opening and closing actions without complex mechanical linkages or electronic components
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides fluid control into multiple independent valves, each controlling a specific flow path between fluid input channels and fluid output channels. This segmentation allows precise individual control of each fluid route while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular valve design
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid fluid routing structures are used, then the device structure is more stable, but the fluid routing flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic manifold cartridge is divided into multiple functional layers: fluid input channel layer, valve layer, fluid output channel layer, and fluid via layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while collectively providing flexible fluid routing capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional planar fluidic structures to a three-dimensional layered architecture. Fluid can be routed through vertical vias connecting different layers, enabling complex fluid paths and mixing configurations that would be difficult to achieve with rigid planar structures
3Productivity
If multiple fluid sources are used to create complex gradients, then the analysis capability is improved, but the fluid handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve layer serves multiple functions: it controls fluid flow from different input channels, directs fluid to different output channels, and enables mixing by combining fluids from multiple sources. This multi-functionality allows complex gradient creation without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control gas acts as an intermediary that translates control signals into precise valve actuation. By using control gas delivered through dedicated conduits to each valve, the system achieves sophisticated fluid handling with simple control mechanisms
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 flow and mixing, allowing for the creation of complex gradients and efficient fluid handling, improving the analysis of sample interactions with liquids, and enhancing the simulation of physiological conditions in automated perifusion systems.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible membrane layer can be proximal and adjacent to the valve layer, and is operable to control fluid flow from the inlet location to the outlet location of the valve seats
Implementation Method 2
The control fluid opening can direct control fluid to move the diaphragm so as to change the valve between the open and closed conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic manifold cartridge includes a plurality of source fluid inlets and fluid outlets. A plurality of fluid input flow channels are provided. Each fluid inlet is in fluid communication with a fluid input flow channel. Each fluid input flow channel directs fluid from the fluid inlet past a plurality of valves. A plurality of fluid output flow channels are in fluid communication with a fluid outlets. Each valve includes a valve seat, a portion of membrane, and a control fluid opening. Each valve has an open and closed condition. The valve in the open condition directs fluid from a fluid input flow channel to a fluid output flow channel. The control fluid opening directs control fluid to move the membrane so as to change the valve between the open and closed conditions. Systems and methods for fluidic manifold are also disclosed.