Microfluidic Blood Separation Device Using Gravitational Sedimentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for blood separation and analyte analysis, particularly with microfluidic devices, face challenges such as difficulty in collecting and separating small volumes of whole blood, low yield of plasma, and the need for technical expertise and expensive equipment.
Innovation Solution
A passive, microfluidic, disposable device that separates whole blood into plasma using an inner container with a sedimentation compartment, an outer container, and a breachable diluent reservoir, allowing for efficient separation and distribution of plasma for further analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If capillary blood collection methods are used to enable point-of-care testing, then patient impact is reduced and reporting speed is improved, but the volume of blood obtained is too small for proper separation and distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the blood sample into distinct phases (cellular component and plasma) using a microfluidic chamber with specific geometry. The chamber segments the blood flow path to allow gravitational separation, with the plasma layer forming a distinct segment that can be selectively accessed through the side outlet, solving the problem of insufficient blood volume for separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a vertical dimension to the microfluidic channel, creating a layered flow structure where blood flows downward and plasma separates upward due to density differences. This dimensional approach allows plasma extraction from the side wall at a specific height, enabling efficient separation from minimal blood volume.
2Manufacturing precision
If mini-centrifuges are used to separate plasma from whole blood, then separation is achieved, but the devices require technical expertise to operate and have higher failure rates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical centrifugal force system with a passive gravitational separation system. The microfluidic chamber is designed with specific dimensions and angles that allow blood to separate into cellular and plasma components under gravity alone, eliminating the need for mechanical centrifuges and technical operation expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs plasma separation automatically through its engineered microfluidic structure. When blood is introduced, the chamber's geometry and the side outlet configuration cause spontaneous separation and plasma extraction without requiring the user to operate mechanical controls or monitor the process, making it self-service and foolproof.
3Manufacturing precision
If disk-based centrifugal separation is used, then plasma separation is achieved, but the devices are mechanical in nature resulting in higher costs and failure rates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention substitutes mechanical rotating disk systems with a static microfluidic chamber that achieves plasma separation through gravitational forces and carefully designed flow paths. This eliminates moving parts, mechanical wear, and calibration requirements, significantly improving reliability while maintaining separation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device is designed as a disposable single-use unit, eliminating the need for expensive, complex mechanical systems that require maintenance and are prone to failure. The low-cost disposable nature improves reliability by ensuring each device is fresh and free from previous use contamination or wear.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex valving and channeling systems are used in centrifugal devices, then plasma distribution is achieved, but the devices become complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a vertical side outlet positioned at a specific height on the chamber wall to access the plasma layer. This dimensional approach simplifies the distribution system by eliminating the need for complex valves and multi-path channeling, as plasma is extracted directly through the side outlet based on its position in the separated blood column.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chamber incorporates a localized plasma extraction region with specific geometric features (side outlet position, chamber angle, and dimensions) that are optimized for plasma separation and extraction. This localized design achieves versatile plasma distribution without requiring complex system-wide valving and channeling.
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 device enables efficient separation of plasma from small volumes of whole blood with minimal manual skill required, providing a cost-effective and user-friendly point-of-care solution for analyte testing.
Implementation Method 1
a breachable diluent reservoir, wherein upon breach the internal volume of the diluent reservoir is in fluid communication with the sedimentation compartment
Implementation Method 2
an inner container forming a sedimentation compartment for receiving a sample of the fluid
Implementation Method 3
the natural tendency of blood to sediment
Implementation Method 4
the more dense cellular components of blood (erythrocytes: 37-52% typical by volume, leukocytes: 1%, and thrombocytes
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a device and method for separation of blood, including sedimentation of plasma using PVA. The device comprises an inner container enclosed in an outer container, wherein upon alignment of respective openings, allows sample to exit from the inner container into a reaction structure. The reaction structure comprises one or more layers, each with one or more portions each containing concentrations of one or more chemicals.