Magnetically Controlled Valve and Pump Manifold Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid delivery systems in reactors are complex, costly, and require multiple pumps and valves, with limitations such as high power requirements, low back-pressure ratings, and manufacturing difficulties, making them unsuitable for wide-spread applications.
Innovation Solution
Development of magnetically controlled pumps and valves that utilize actuating magnets and driver magnets to control fluid flow through fluidic channels, allowing for the creation of both pump and valve devices in a single integrated system, reducing complexity and cost by using chip components with flexible membranes and discontinuous fluidic channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional manifolds and valve systems are used for fluid delivery, then fluid flow control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single manifold assembly where a common actuating mechanism controls multiple fluid pathways simultaneously. This integration reduces the number of separate components while maintaining comprehensive fluid delivery control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both a distribution network for fluid delivery and an integrated valve system for flow control. The single assembly performs what would traditionally require separate manifolds and multiple valve components.
2Device complexity
If multiple pumps and valves are used to control fluid flow, then precise flow control is achieved, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve functions are merged into a single manifold assembly with a common actuating mechanism, reducing the total component count from multiple separate valves to one integrated unit, thereby reducing potential failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the fluid's own pressure and the mechanical coupling within the manifold to achieve coordinated valve operation without requiring additional actuators or control systems for each individual valve.
3Use of energy by moving object
If conventional electromagnetic valves are used, then automated fluid control is achieved, but power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces electromagnetic actuation with a mechanical linkage system where a single actuator mechanically couples to and simultaneously actuates multiple valves through the manifold structure, eliminating the need for multiple electromagnetic actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
A single actuating mechanism performs the work of multiple electromagnetic valves by mechanically coupling to all valve elements through the integrated manifold, providing automated control while consuming minimal power.
4Stress or pressure
If piezo driven valves are used, then low power operation is achieved, but back-pressure rating is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold assembly employs curved or angled fluid pathways and valve seat geometries that optimize pressure distribution and reduce stress concentration points, enabling the system to withstand higher back-pressures while maintaining a compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is constructed from materials with high mechanical strength and pressure resistance properties, combining structural integrity with the integrated valve design to achieve high back-pressure ratings without increasing system complexity.
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
The solution enables efficient, automated, and cost-effective control of fluid flow, reducing the need for multiple components and simplifying fluid delivery mechanisms, while maintaining high back-pressure ratings and extending valve lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
magnetically controlled pumps and valves that utilize actuating magnets and driver magnets to control fluid flow
Implementation Method 2
Actuating magnets are housed within the magnet substrate and can be controlled using driver magnets
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are embodiments of magnetically controlled valve and pump systems that can be used to control and facilitate fluid flow in fluidic devices. Various types of magnetically controlled valves and pumps are described as well as methods of magnetically-controlling such valves and pumps.