Microfluidic Card Connection Device Using Rotational Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting and disconnecting microfluidic cards to instrumented supports are complex, tedious, and require specialized tools, leading to long and delicate procedures, which are not easily reproducible or adaptable to various environments.
Innovation Solution
A device with a defined axis of rotation allows the microfluidic card to pivot and bear against two surfaces, ensuring a fluidic connection without shearing stress, using holding means that exert forces perpendicular and parallel to the surface, enabling easy connection and disconnection without tools or technical knowledge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection methods with clamps, flanges, and seals are used, then a secure fluidic connection is achieved, but the connection process becomes complex and tedious requiring multiple moving means and delicate manipulations
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the connection function into two distinct surfaces: a first surface for mechanical support and a second surface for fluidic connection. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized for its specific function, simplifying the overall connection mechanism while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary lever arm mechanism that translates the simple action of pressing the card against the first surface into simultaneous engagement with both the first surface (mechanical support) and the second surface (fluidic connection). This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for complex multi-component connection systems.
2Reliability
If pre-positioning and clamping methods are used, then the card is securely held, but the procedure requires specialized tools and technical knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be self-aligning through the rotational movement around the defined axis. The card automatically positions itself relative to the first and second surfaces during rotation, eliminating the need for pre-positioning or specialized alignment tools. The user simply needs to insert and rotate the card, and the system handles the precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from complex multi-step manipulation to simple rotational movement. By defining a specific axis of rotation and requiring only rotational motion, the system transforms a complex positioning task into a simple, intuitive operation that does not require specialized technical knowledge.
3Reliability
If multiple moving means are used for connection, then a secure connection is achieved, but the process takes longer and is less reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical support function and the fluidic connection function into a single rotational operation. By combining these functions and implementing them through a unified mechanism with defined rotation axis and two surfaces, the system achieves secure connection in one smooth motion rather than through multiple separate steps, significantly improving connection speed and reproducibility.
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 solution simplifies the connection and disconnection process, making it quick, reliable, and adaptable to multiple environments, reducing the need for specialized tools and technical expertise while ensuring a secure fluidic connection.
Implementation Method 1
By a lever arm effect, the connection surface of the card presses against the second surface of the device
Implementation Method 2
The holding means can exert on the card, positioned on said first surface of the device, a force having a component perpendicular to this first surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5B
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A device for interconnecting a card including at least one first fluid channel, emerging from a connection side parallel to a support side, the interconnection device including: a first surface configured to receive the support side of the card; a second surface parallel to the first surface, from which a second fluid channel emerges; and a mechanism to hold the card in place, configured to hold a connection side of the card pressed against the second surface of the device, such that first fluid channel is in fluid connection with the second fluid channel.