Microfluidic Blood Analysis System with Segmented Input Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic systems face challenges in efficiently analyzing blood samples for multi-parameter measurements, particularly in point-of-care settings, where sample fractionation can lead to information loss and complex sample preparation is required for OMICS analyses.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic analysis system with a sample input chamber that allows selective lysis and sequential introduction of blood sample components into a lab-on-chip platform, using a polysample chamber and connecting lines to transport components without division, enabling efficient sample preparation and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If blood samples are fractionated by volume for multi-parameter analysis, then different components can be analyzed simultaneously, but information loss occurs and sample preparation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample input chamber is divided into three spatially separated input areas (first, second, and third input areas) that can independently receive different blood sample components. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-parameter analysis while maintaining complete sample information through separate but parallel processing channels, eliminating the need to sacrifice portions of the original sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic analysis system is designed with universal applicability to handle multiple sample types and parameters through a single integrated platform. The system can process DNA, RNA, and protein samples simultaneously in separate input areas, providing multi-functional capability without requiring separate devices or sample division.
2Productivity
If blood samples are fractionated by volume, then parallel measurements can be performed, but the process requires complex sample preparation and laboratory expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service sample processing where users can directly load different blood sample components into the designated input areas without requiring complex laboratory preparation. The microfluidic system automatically handles sample distribution and processing, eliminating the need for expert intervention in sample fractionation and preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample input chamber is pre-configured with three spatially separated input areas designed to receive specific blood sample components in predetermined positions. This preliminary arrangement of sample reception zones eliminates the need for complex in-lab sample preparation and fractionation steps, allowing users to simply load pre-prepared components into their respective areas.
3Productivity
If selective lysis is performed in a small volume, then sample processing efficiency improves, but ensuring complete component transfer becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sample input chamber is divided into three spatially separated input areas that independently receive and process different blood sample components. This segmentation allows selective lysis to be performed in small volumes for each component type while maintaining complete transfer through dedicated input channels, preventing cross-contamination and ensuring reliable component separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic connecting lines serve as intermediary channels that reliably transport sample components from the input areas to the analysis chambers. These controlled fluid pathways ensure complete and contamination-free transfer of samples while enabling efficient processing in small volumes through precise fluid control.
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 standardized, loss-free, and contamination-free processing of blood samples for multi-parameter measurements, allowing for quantitative patient monitoring and efficient transfer of DNA and RNA without laboratory expertise, suitable for point-of-care applications.
Implementation Method 1
WO 2005/119211 A1 discloses a device for receiving blood and separating blood plasma as sample liquid, comprising a channel that receives the sample liquid by capillary forces.
Implementation Method 2
US 2014/314636 A1 discloses a microchip containing a fluid circuit consisting of a space formed inside and causing a fluid present in the fluid circuit to move within the fluid circuit by applying centrifugal force.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a microfluidic analysis system (1) for analysing blood samples, comprising a sample input chamber (2) with an opening (3) and three input regions (4) that are spatially separate from each other, into which component parts of the blood sample can be input separately from each other.