Microfluidic System for Automated Cascading Assays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological and chemical assays in laboratories involve manual or robotic steps that introduce processing delays and errors, necessitating a more efficient and reliable system for performing assays.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic system and method that enables cascading assays within a microfluidic device, allowing for the amplification or partitioning of samples, with integrated detection and analysis capabilities, facilitating efficient processing and reducing errors through automated handling of multiple assays in series.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual or robotic steps are used for transferring samples between processing elements, then the assay can be performed, but processing delays and errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete processing steps into a single integrated microfluidic device where sample preparation, amplification, and detection occur in continuous flow without manual intervention. This integration eliminates transfer delays and reduces errors by maintaining continuous automated processing throughout the assay workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic system enables continuous flow processing where samples move continuously through different processing zones (mixing, amplification, detection) without interruption or manual handling. This continuous action eliminates idle time between steps and maintains uninterrupted automated operation, resolving the contradiction between speed and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete processing steps are used for assays, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but the system becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex assay workflow into distinct functional zones within a single microfluidic chip (sample introduction, mixing, amplification, detection zones). Each zone performs a specific function but all are integrated into one compact device, maintaining versatility while reducing operational complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments and manual transfers.
3Productivity
If automated microfluidic handling is implemented, then processing efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device uses pneumatic or hydraulic pressure systems to automate sample and reagent flow through the device. Pressure-driven flow enables automated, high-throughput processing without complex mechanical moving parts, achieving high productivity while keeping the device structure relatively simple and robust.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a microfluidic system, method and kit for performing assays. The system may comprise a microfluidic device and a detector, wherein the assay yields results that may be read by a detector and analyzed by the system. The assay may comprise one or more chemical or biological reaction against, or performed on, a sample or multiple samples. The sample(s) may become larger and/or smaller during the performance of the assay. The sample(s) may be present within a vehicle, or on a carrier within a vehicle, in the microfluidic device, and wherein the vehicle may become larger and/or smaller during the performance of the assay. The assay may be a cascading assay comprising a series of multiple assays, wherein each assay may be the same or different, and wherein each assay in the series of multiple assays may further comprise one or more process or step.