Microfluidic Chip with Integrated Optical Detection for Rapid Biomolecule Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microarray technology faces challenges with long processing times and lack of portability for quick and efficient detection of biomolecules, particularly in microfluidic systems, which are not designed for rapid sensing of biomolecules like RNA/DNA samples.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic chip system integrated with a manifold, illuminator, and detector, featuring via holes for fluid communication and optical detection, allowing for rapid binding and detection of biomolecules on a microarray, enabling quick and portable sensing of biomolecules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If current microarray technology is used, then biomolecule detection capability is provided, but processing times are long and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (sample preparation, hybridization, washing, and detection) into a single integrated microfluidic chip system. The chip integrates microchannels for fluid delivery, microarray surfaces for biomolecule binding, and optical detection systems, eliminating the need for separate processing steps and reducing overall processing time from days to minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated microfluidic systems. Fluid delivery is achieved through pressure-driven flow in microchannels rather than manual pipetting, and detection is performed automatically through optical scanning of the microarray, significantly reducing processing time and labor requirements.
2Ease of operation
If current microarray systems are used, then biomolecule detection is possible, but the systems are not designed for quick and portable sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple functional components within a compact microfluidic chip structure. The microarray is integrated directly into the chip substrate, with microchannels and optical detection elements incorporated within the same device footprint, creating a portable system that combines functions previously requiring separate equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from bulk-scale processing to micro-scale processing by integrating all components within a microfluidic chip having dimensions of approximately 10x10 mm. This miniaturization in the spatial dimension enables portability while maintaining detection capability through optimized microchannel and microarray geometries.
3Speed
If microfluidic chips are integrated with microarrays, then fast response times and precise control over small flows are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the microfluidic chip into distinct functional regions: sample introduction zones, microchannels for fluid delivery, microarray binding surfaces, and detection areas. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining fast response times through precise control of fluid flow in isolated microchannels.
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 system significantly reduces processing times for nucleic acid detection, providing a high-throughput, portable solution for microarray analysis, enabling efficient preparation, binding, and detection of biomolecules.
Implementation Method 1
the microfluidic chip capable of transmitting light to the microarray
Implementation Method 2
a detector in optical communication with the microarray
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems that include a manifold in fluid communication with a microfluidic chip having a microarray, an illuminator, and a detector in optical communication with the microarray. Methods for using these systems for biological detection are also disclosed.