Microfluidic Controller Protocol Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and expense of controlling microfluidic devices are increased due to the diversity of devices and protocols required, leading to potential mistakes and inefficiencies in laboratory settings.
Innovation Solution
A controller system that uses a standardized command language to convert commands between high-level, mid-level, and low-level protocols, allowing communication with various microfluidic devices through a microcontroller and field programmable gate array, enabling seamless control and data transfer across different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different controllers and protocols are used for various microfluidic devices, then each device can be controlled according to its specific requirements, but the system complexity and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal controller that can interface with multiple types of microfluidic devices using different protocols. The controller includes a protocol translation layer that converts between a standardized high-level command language and various device-specific low-level protocols, allowing one controller to replace multiple specialized controllers while maintaining compatibility with diverse devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary translation layer between the user interface and microfluidic devices. This layer includes protocol translators that mediate communication by converting standardized commands into device-specific protocols and vice versa, eliminating the need for users to directly interact with multiple different protocols while ensuring each device receives appropriate control signals
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different controllers and protocols are used for various microfluidic devices, then each device can be controlled according to its specific requirements, but the potential for mistakes and problems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors the state of microfluidic devices and adjusts commands accordingly. The system includes status registration and error detection capabilities that provide feedback loops, allowing the controller to verify successful device operations and correct issues automatically, thereby reducing mistakes despite handling multiple device types
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediary translation layer not only converts protocols but also validates commands and ensures reliable communication. It acts as a buffer that can detect and correct transmission errors, manage data formatting, and ensure compatibility between diverse devices and the control system, thereby improving operational reliability
3Manufacturing precision
If device-specific protocols are used for each microfluidic device, then precise control is achieved, but the expense of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal controller that consolidates the functionality of multiple device-specific controllers into a single unit. By implementing a protocol translation layer that handles various device protocols internally, the system achieves precise control over multiple device types without requiring separate specialized controllers for each device, thereby reducing overall system expense
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for controlling a microfluidic device. A first computing device receives commands from a user interface in a relatively high level protocol using a standardized command language, converts the commands from the standardized command language into a relatively mid-level protocol, sends the commands in the relatively mid-level protocol, receiving data, converts the data into the standardized command language, and sends the data to the user interface according to the standardized command language. A second computing device receives the commands from the first computing device in the relatively mid-level protocol, converts the commands from the relatively mid-level protocol to at least one relatively lower level protocol that is understood by a microfluidic device that is connected to the controller, receives data from the microfluidic device, and sends the data to the first computing device.