Hydrodynamic Trap Layout for Cell Retention Under Flow Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological object capture devices fail to retain specimens within a fluidic circuit when flow direction is reversed, leading to disruption in analysis.
Innovation Solution
A capture device with a mirrored arrangement of hydrodynamic traps in a fluidic circuit, ensuring the biological object remains trapped regardless of flow direction changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single hydrodynamic trap is used in the fluidic circuit, then the structure is simple, but the biological object escapes when flow direction reverses
Solution Approach 1:
The single trap is divided into two separate traps positioned at different locations in the fluidic circuit. Each trap independently captures the biological object from opposite flow directions, ensuring retention regardless of which direction the flow reverses.
Solution Approach 2:
The two traps are arranged asymmetrically relative to the flow direction, with each trap optimized for capturing objects from its respective side. This asymmetric placement ensures that no matter which direction the flow reverses, at least one trap will effectively capture the biological object.
2Reliability
If multiple traps are added to capture cells from both flow directions, then retention reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capture function is segmented into two separate traps rather than one complex multi-functional trap. Each trap is a simple, dedicated capture element, making the overall system more reliable while keeping individual components simple.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing a single trap that attempts to handle both flow directions, the invention inverts the approach by adding a second trap that handles the opposite flow direction. This inversion of the single-trap design resolves the contradiction by accepting increased complexity in exchange for guaranteed retention.
3Reliability
If the biological object is trapped in a compartment, then it can be studied, but the compartment structure complicates the device
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is segmented into two separate trap compartments rather than one large complex compartment. Each trap provides a simple, dedicated capture space, reducing the complexity of individual structures while maintaining reliable retention through the combined action of both traps.
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
Ensures continuous retention of biological objects in the fluidic circuit, allowing uninterrupted analysis even with reversed flow directions.
Implementation Method 1
a first hydrodynamic trap and a second hydrodynamic trap, each hydrodynamic trap being implemented as a branch from the main channel and comprising a housing dimensioned to accommodate said biological object and a restriction extending said housing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for capturing a biological object (O), which device comprises a first fluid circuit (C1) having: - a first fluid inlet (A1) and a second fluid inlet (A2), - a main channel extending between the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet comprising a first branch (B1) into which the first fluid inlet (A1) opens, a central branch (B3) forming an extension of the first branch via a first junction branch (B2) and a second branch (B5) forming an extension of the central branch via a second junction branch (B4) and opening out at the second fluid inlet (A2), - a first hydrodynamic trap (PH1) and a second hydrodynamic trap (PH2), - each hydrodynamic trap being made in the form of a bypass branch relative to the main channel and having a housing (L1, L2) designed to accommodate the biological object (O) and a restriction (R1, R2) forming an extension of the housing.