Micro Reservoir Lock Elimination via Segmented Outlet Duct
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing micro reservoirs in microfluidic flow cells experience uncontrolled and unmetered fluid discharge due to high fluid pressure when the lock is opened, leading to loss of valuable reagents, especially when the storage quantity is low.
Innovation Solution
A micro reservoir design that eliminates the lock without admitting fluid pressure, using mechanical devices such as actor elements to separate or lift the limiting walls of the outlet duct, allowing for controlled and dosed fluid removal by applying a tearing force, which can be achieved through mechanical means like pins or levers within or outside the outlet duct.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the lock is opened by applying fluid pressure, then the storage space can be emptied, but the fluid discharges uncontrollably at high flow speed causing loss of valuable reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet duct is divided into two separate openings: a first opening for fluid discharge and a second opening for lock elimination. This segmentation allows the lock to be opened independently without fluid pressure, preventing uncontrolled discharge while maintaining the ability to empty the storage space
Solution Approach 2:
The lock is eliminated beforehand through the second opening using mechanical means or controlled methods before fluid discharge begins. This preliminary action ensures the lock is removed without exposing the system to high fluid pressure that would cause uncontrolled flow and reagent loss
2Ease of operation
If fluid pressure is used to eliminate the lock, then the lock can be opened, but the entire storage quantity cannot be retained as some fluid is lost uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet duct is divided into two separate openings: a first opening for fluid discharge and a second opening for lock elimination. This segmentation allows the lock to be opened independently without fluid pressure, preventing uncontrolled discharge while maintaining the ability to empty the storage space
Solution Approach 2:
A separate mechanism or intermediary method is used through the second opening to eliminate the lock without relying on fluid pressure. This intermediary approach allows lock removal while preserving the stored fluid quantity for controlled subsequent discharge
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
Enables the complete retention of the stored fluid within the reservoir during lock elimination, allowing for controlled and dosed fluid dispensing, preventing uncontrolled discharge and ensuring that all reagents are utilized effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the actor element can be pressed through a passage opening in the substrate and against the foil so as to produce a tearing force which eliminates the lock
Implementation Method 2
the at least one flexible foil is arranged on a substrate and the actor element can be pressed through a passage opening in the substrate and against the foil
Data Source
AI summary
A micro reservoir, particularly for integration in a microfluidic flow cell, with a storage space for receiving a fluid and being in connection with an outlet duct for the fluid, wherein a cancelable lock for the fluid is formed. A mechanism is provided for canceling the lock without pressure of the fluid acting on the lock. The mechanism preferably mechanically destroys the lock.