Single-Layer Membrane Valve for Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing membrane-based fluid systems require complex valve devices that are not suitable for implementation in a single layer substrate, and existing one-way valves are complex and multilayered, limiting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A valve device comprising a substrate and a membrane joined around a valve area, with a first channel end surface area substantially larger than a second channel end surface area, allowing fluid communication when the membrane is lifted and blocking fluid flow when in contact with the substrate, enabling unidirectional or bidirectional flow control through pressure management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex valve devices are used in membrane based fluid systems, then valve functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases and implementation in single layer substrate becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The valve device is segmented into distinct functional components: a substrate layer containing channels and a separate membrane layer with a valve element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall construction, enabling implementation in single layer substrates while maintaining reliable valve functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a flexible membrane as the valve closure element, which can be deformed by pressure differential to control fluid flow. This thin film approach replaces complex mechanical valve structures with a simple, flexible membrane that can be easily integrated into single layer substrate configurations while providing reliable flow control.
2Reliability
If multilayer substrate valves are used, then valve functionality is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases due to multilayer construction requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism transitions from a planar multilayer construction to a three-dimensional configuration where the membrane extends vertically from the substrate surface. This dimensional change allows the valve to function with a single layer substrate, as the membrane provides the closure mechanism in the vertical dimension rather than requiring additional substrate layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane serves multiple functions: it acts as both the valve closure element and a structural component of the fluid handling system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate valve components and multilayer constructions, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining reliable valve operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing one-way valve constructions are used, then unidirectional flow control is achieved, but device complexity increases and bidirectional functionality is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element is designed as a dynamic membrane that can be actively deformed by applying pressure differential through the membrane. This dynamic control mechanism allows the valve to switch between unidirectional and bidirectional flow modes, providing versatile flow direction control while maintaining simple construction without requiring multiple valve components.
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 valve device allows for efficient fluid pumping and overflow control using a single layer substrate, with adjustable force levels to switch between unidirectional, bidirectional, and overflow modes, enhancing fluid handling capabilities in membrane-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
the membrane which is flexible will be lifted from the substrate when the pressure in the first channel is increased to a certain level
Implementation Method 2
the membrane which is flexible will be lifted from the substrate
Implementation Method 3
As the first channel end surface is substantially larger than the second channel end surface, the force to open the valve will easier be obtained when fluid is pressurized in the first channel
Implementation Method 4
Normally a certain force will be needed to lift, in the valve area, the membrane from the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A valve device including a substrate with first and second surfaces positioned on opposing sides, a first groove extending along the first surface with a horseshoe shaped end in a valve area formed on the first surface, a second groove extending along the second surface, a channel fluidically coupled to the second groove and extending from the second surface to the first surface ending at an end in the valve area; a first membrane providing a fluid tight connection with the first surface of the substrate except at the valve area and forming a first channel at the first groove, an area of the end of the first groove is larger than an area of the end of the channel; and a second membrane providing a fluid tight connection with the second surface of the substrate forming a second channel at the second groove.