Micro-projection Arrays for Rapid Haemolysis in Diagnostic Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microfluidic devices face challenges in precise control and efficient mixing of small fluid volumes due to issues like fluid loss, capillary effects, and the need for complete reagent interaction, especially in diagnostic assays, which are compounded by the need for cost-effectiveness and precision in miniature formats.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an array of micro-projections within the channels of diagnostic consumables to increase the surface area for reagent interaction, allowing for efficient mixing and interaction with the sample fluid, thereby enhancing diffusion and reducing the time required for processes like haemolysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If microfluidic devices use small channel dimensions for precise fluid control, then fluid manipulation precision is improved, but mixing efficiency deteriorates due to limited diffusion area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vertical micro-projections into the channel to create three-dimensional flow paths, transforming the traditional two-dimensional flat channel into a multi-dimensional structure. This increases the surface area for diffusion and mixing while maintaining the compact microfluidic format, thereby improving mixing efficiency without sacrificing fluid control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-projections create a porous-like structure within the channel that increases the effective surface area for reagent-sample interaction. This porous architecture enhances diffusion efficiency and mixing performance while maintaining the structural integrity needed for precise fluid control
2Volume of moving object
If microfluidic devices reduce channel size for portability, then device portability is improved, but reagent-sample interaction completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By adding vertical micro-projections that extend into the channel, the patent creates additional interaction surfaces within the compact channel volume. This three-dimensional structure increases the total reagent-sample contact area, ensuring complete interaction even in miniaturized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The channel is segmented into multiple flow paths by the micro-projections, creating numerous small-scale interaction zones. This segmentation increases the cumulative surface area for reagent-sample interaction while maintaining a compact overall device size
3Speed
If traditional channels are used for rapid haemolysis, then processing speed is improved, but mixing thoroughness deteriorates due to limited diffusion area
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-projections create vertical flow paths and increase the surface area for diffusion, enabling rapid and thorough mixing. The three-dimensional structure provides multiple diffusion pathways that accelerate haemolysis while ensuring complete mixing of reagents and samples
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
This approach enables complete haemolysis in less than 5 seconds with improved flow resistance characteristics, ensuring consistent and efficient sample preparation for diagnostic assays.
Implementation Method 1
enhancing diffusion and reducing the time required for processes like haemolysis
Implementation Method 2
challenges due to several factors, such as fluid loss in transport, capillary effects, and the need for complete reagent interaction
Data Source
AI summary
Diagnostic consumables for use in the analysis of fluid samples, such as whole blood, plasma or urine, are provided. The diagnostic consumables include a substrate having a sample preparation stage that includes an inlet port for receiving a fluid sample, an outlet port for dispensing a prepared fluid sample, and a channel extending from the inlet port to the outlet port. The channel includes an array of micro-projections extending into the channel to define a plurality of flow paths therebetween along at least a portion of a length of the channel between the inlet port and the outlet port. A material is disposed on the array of micro-projections for mixing with the fluid sample as the fluid sample is flowed through the channel to generate the prepared fluid sample. Methods of operating and manufacturing the diagnostic consumables are also provided.