Micro-fluidic Chip Integrated Laser Source

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital micro-fluidic chips for biological detection lack integrated light sources, which hinders the miniaturization and portability of detection equipment.

Innovation Solution

A micro-fluidic chip is designed with an integrated laser source and detection element, allowing for on-chip illumination and detection of droplets, thereby eliminating the need for external light sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If light sources are installed on external detection apparatus, then detection function is achieved, but device size and portability are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection functionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the light source function into the micro-fluidic chip by integrating a laser source directly onto the chip substrate. This combines previously separate components (chip and external light source) into a single integrated unit, enabling portable detection while maintaining detection functionality through on-chip illumination for droplet analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Volume of moving object

If light sources are integrated into the micro-fluidic chip, then device miniaturization and portability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidchip structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses hydrophobic layers and capillary forces to control droplet movement and positioning on the chip. The hydrophobic layer pattern creates specific wetting regions that guide droplets to designated areas where the laser source illuminates them, enabling automated droplet manipulation without complex mechanical actuators or external control systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

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 integration of a laser source and detection element within the micro-fluidic chip enhances its portability and miniaturization, while improving the accuracy and efficiency of biochemical reactions and detection processes.

Implementation Method 1

a laser source on the upper substrate side or the lower substrate side and configured to provide illumination for detection of the droplet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a detection element on the upper substrate side or the lower substrate side and configured to detect the droplet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

a driving electrode on an upper substrate side or a lower substrate side, the driving electrode being configured to control the droplet to move in a powered-on state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrowetting: Electrowetting

Data Source

PatentUS12233409B2Micro-fluidic chip, fabrication method thereof and micro-fluidic device
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 BEIJING BOE SENSOR TECH CO LTD
  • US12233409B2 patent drawing
  • US12233409B2 patent drawing
  • US12233409B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a micro-fluidic chip, a method for fabricating the same, and a micro-fluidic device. The micro-fluidic chip includes: an upper substrate and a lower substrate assembled to form a cell with a gap between the upper substrate and the lower substrate, the gap being configured to accommodate a droplet; a driving electrode on an upper substrate side or a lower substrate side, the driving electrode being configured to control the droplet to move in a powered-on state, wherein the micro-fluidic chip further includes a laser source on the upper substrate side or the lower substrate side and configured to provide illumination for detection of the droplet.