Independent Sample Chambers With Isolated Liquid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell screening devices face challenges in independently handling multiple samples due to mechanical fitting of sample chambers and flow passages, limiting simultaneous observation and handling of multiple samples.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising independent sample chambers with a structure allowing separate liquid flow, utilizing a liquid-passing member and flow passage forming member, enabling independent observation and handling of multiple samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If sample chambers and flow passages are formed by mechanical fitting, then device assembly is simplified, but the ability to independently handle multiple samples is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent units, each comprising a sample chamber and its own flow passage. This segmentation allows each unit to independently handle samples without interfering with other units, while still being part of a single integrated device structure that can be manufactured using standardized assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sample chambers are arranged in a planar array configuration rather than stacking them vertically or connecting them serially. This two-dimensional arrangement allows independent access to each sample chamber through the substrate, enabling parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining simple device assembly.
2Productivity
If multiple sample chambers are integrated in one device, then sample throughput increases, but fluid flow independence between chambers becomes difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system is segmented into independent flow passages for each sample chamber. Each flow passage is separately controllable, allowing independent fluid handling for each chamber. This segmentation ensures that fluid flow in one chamber does not affect others, maintaining reliability while enabling high throughput through parallel processing.
Solution Approach 2:
A valve member is introduced as an intermediary component between the fluid source and each sample chamber. This valve member selectively controls fluid flow to individual chambers, enabling independent handling of samples while maintaining a unified device structure. The valve acts as a mediator that decouples the fluid flow paths of different chambers.
3Area of stationary object
If accommodation layers are formed on larger substrates, then device area increases, but the density of accommodation layers per substrate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes a two-dimensional planar array configuration to maximize the use of substrate area. Multiple accommodation layers are arranged in a grid pattern across the substrate surface, increasing the number of layers that can be formed per unit area compared to linear or stacked configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple accommodation layers are nested within a single substrate structure, with each layer containing multiple sample chambers. This nesting approach allows high-density integration of sample chambers within the substrate area, maximizing the quantity of accommodation layers without requiring proportionally larger substrate areas.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (1) is a device including a plurality of units (3) of which each includes a sample chamber (2) that is able to individually accommodate cells or particles. Each unit (3) includes an accommodation layer (5) including an accommodation portion (4) corresponding to the sample chamber (2) and a structure (6) allowing a liquid to flow into the accommodation portion (4). The plurality of units (3) are independent there is no flow of the liquid therebetween.