Microfluidic Chip Tree-Like Fluid Distribution for Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic devices for sequencing applications face challenges in increasing the number of sensing events per day, requiring longer washing times and higher reagent usage, which hampers high-speed processing and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic chip with a tree-like delivery distribution system, where multiple sensing chambers are connected to a common supply channel with branching microfluidic channels, allowing for independent control of fluid flow using negative pressure, reducing the distance fluids travel and minimizing reagent usage by performing localized washing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of sensing sites is increased to increase the number of sensing events per day, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent sensing sites (first sensing site, second sensing site, etc.) that can operate simultaneously. Each sensing site has its own sensing chamber and channel connections, allowing parallel processing of multiple samples or reactions, thereby increasing the number of sensing events per day without requiring a single complex centralized system
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chip design integrates multiple functions into a single device: sample introduction, reagent delivery, mixing, incubation, and detection all occur within the same chip structure. The first and second supply channels can deliver different reagents to different sensing sites, enabling the device to perform multiple types of sensing events simultaneously using a unified platform
2Measurement precision
If washing time is extended to ensure proper fluid positioning, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing a global washing step across the entire chip, the design enables localized fluid positioning and washing at specific sensing sites. The microfluidic channels can deliver fluids precisely to the first sensing site or second sensing site as needed, allowing washing and fluid positioning to be performed only where required, thereby reducing overall washing time while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The device structure is designed to pre-position fluids in the correct locations before sensing begins. The supply channels and sensing chambers are configured so that reagents and samples are already in place or can be rapidly delivered to the required positions, reducing the need for extended washing steps to correct fluid positioning errors
3Reliability
If a general washing step is performed for the complete chip, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chip is segmented into multiple independent sensing sites with separate channel connections, allowing individual or selective washing of specific sites rather than requiring a blanket washing step across the entire chip. This segmentation enables reagents to be used only where needed, reducing overall reagent consumption while maintaining reliable sensing at each site
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of performing a complete washing step across the entire chip (excessive action), the design allows for partial washing of only the specific sensing sites or channels that require it. This partial action approach reduces reagent consumption by avoiding unnecessary washing of areas that do not require it, while still maintaining the reliability of the sensing process
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
This design enhances throughput, reduces washing time and reagent consumption, enabling faster sequencing cycles (0.01 to 0.1 seconds) and lowering operational costs while maintaining high sensitivity through efficient fluid delivery and waste management.
Implementation Method 1
the flow in the micro-fluidic channels can be based on a negative pressure that is applied, e.g. in common, to the plurality of micro-fluidic channels, externally to the micro-fluidic chip
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
Figure 3d~3e
AI summary
A microfluidic chip (100) for use in multiplexed analysis of samples is described. The microfluidic chip (100) comprises a plurality of sensing chambers (130) and further comprises at least a first fluid supply channel (110) for providing a first fluid and a plurality of microfluidic channels (120). These are in fluid communication with at least one sensing chamber (130) and with the first fluid supply channel (110) for delivery of said first fluid to the at least one sensing chamber. The microfluidic channels (120) are branching off from the supply channel (110) in the neighbourhood of the sensing chamber (130) that can be provided with the first fluid through the microfluidic channel (120). The different channels (110, 120) thus form a tree-like delivery distribution system for supplying the first fluid to said plurality of sensing chambers (130).