Microfluidic Buffer Tank Pneumatic Liquid Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microfluidic devices are not adapted for use with analysis tools like microfluidic chips and face complications in filling or purging the buffer tank with liquid, limiting their application in precision medicine and biomolecular analysis.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic device with a buffer tank, level sensor, pneumatic system, check valves, and a control unit that allows precise control of liquid delivery to an analysis tool, using a pneumatic system to create positive or negative pressure and ensuring accurate liquid handling through check valves and a calibrated leak, minimizing contamination and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a microdosing device is used to control small amounts of liquid, then liquid delivery control is improved, but the device is not adapted for use with analysis tools and filling/purging operations become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single system: the buffer tank serves as both storage and injection chamber, the pneumatic system performs both filling (negative pressure) and purging (positive pressure), and the check valves manage bidirectional flow control. This multi-functional design enables the device to work with various analysis tools while maintaining precise liquid delivery control.
2Reliability
If check valves are added to prevent liquid backflow, then liquid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The check valves automatically regulate liquid flow direction based on pressure differential without requiring external control. The first check valve self-regulates filling by allowing inward flow when negative pressure is applied, and the second check valve self-regulates injection by allowing outward flow when positive pressure is applied, eliminating the need for additional control mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If a pneumatic system is used to create positive or negative pressure, then liquid delivery precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic system uses gas pressure (rather than direct mechanical pumping of liquid) to control liquid delivery. By applying negative pressure, the system draws liquid into the buffer tank; by applying positive pressure, it injects liquid onto the analysis tool. This indirect pneumatic control simplifies the system compared to direct liquid pumping while maintaining precision.
4Manufacturing precision
If the buffer tank is designed for precise liquid control, then liquid delivery accuracy is improved, but filling and purging operations become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer tank operates dynamically with variable pressure conditions: negative pressure during filling to draw liquid in, positive pressure during injection to deliver liquid, and controlled venting during purging. The drain valve provides dynamic control over liquid removal. These dynamic pressure changes enable precise liquid control while simplifying operational procedures.
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 precise control and reliable delivery of biomolecular materials to analysis tools, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of biomolecular analysis while minimizing contamination and optimizing the performance of the pneumatic system with cost-effective solutions.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic system configured to create selectively a positive or a negative pressure in the buffer tank
Implementation Method 2
a first check valve located upstream of the intake port and a second check valve between the buffer tank and the analysis tool
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides a microfluidic device (101) configured to deliver a controlled amount of a liquid (102) to an analysis tool (103), wherein the microfluidic device comprises: - a buffer tank (104) configured to contain a liquid and/or a gas; - at least one level sensor (105) configured to measure a liquid level in the buffer tank; - a pneumatic system (106) configured to create selectively a positive or a negative pressure in the buffer tank; - at least one intake port (108) to let in a liquid in the buffer tank; - at least one delivery port (109) to inject a controlled amount of liquid from the buffer tank onto the analysis tool (103); - at least one drain port (110) with a controlled drain valve (116), located on the lower part of the buffer tank to discharge the liquid (102) from the buffer tank; - a first check valve (111) located upstream of the intake port and a second check valve (112) between the buffer tank and the analysis tool.