Microfluidic Convection Controllers for Segregated Fluid Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Performing multiple tests on materials is time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially in microfluidic systems where fluid flow is laminar and affected by diffusion, surface tension, and viscosity, leading to challenges in design and manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic system with segregated fluid paths and convection controllers at contact regions allows for the interaction of materials by inhibiting convection while allowing diffusion, enabling efficient interaction and immobilization of materials within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple tests are performed using a multi-well plate with individual wells, then each test can be conducted separately with easy observation, but the time and labor required increases geometrically with the number of materials and tests
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the testing process into multiple independent fluid paths that can operate in parallel. Each fluid path functions as an independent testing channel, allowing multiple materials to be tested simultaneously through a single inlet, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing observation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple fluid paths into a single inlet structure, allowing multiple test materials to be introduced simultaneously through one common entry point. This consolidation reduces the number of separate operations required while maintaining the ability to conduct individual tests in parallel
2Productivity
If the number of wells is increased to test more materials and tests, then more tests can be performed in parallel, but the system complexity and space requirements increase geometrically
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional array of wells to a three-dimensional fluid path network with multiple levels and crossing paths. This dimensional change allows fluid paths to intersect and share common regions, enabling more tests to be conducted within the same footprint without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid paths are designed to serve multiple functions: they can transport different test materials, serve as reaction chambers, and share common inlet/outlet regions. This multi-functionality allows a single fluid path structure to perform multiple testing operations that would otherwise require separate wells
3Volume of moving object
If fluid paths are miniaturized to microfluidic dimensions, then the system becomes compact and integrated, but fluid flow becomes predominantly laminar and diffusion, surface tension, and viscosity effects are emphasized
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies different structural characteristics to different regions of the fluid path system. Crossing regions have specific geometric configurations that facilitate controlled interaction between fluids, while other regions are optimized for flow. This local differentiation allows the system to manage laminar flow and diffusion effects in specific zones without compromising the overall compact design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention modifies physical parameters such as fluid path dimensions, crossing angles, and interaction region geometries to control fluid behavior. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes flow characteristics to manage laminar flow dominance and diffusion effects while maintaining miniaturized dimensions
4Speed
If convection is allowed in fluid paths, then fluid transport is faster, but control over material interaction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid path system segments convection and diffusion zones. Convection dominates in transport regions for fast fluid movement, while diffusion is permitted in controlled interaction regions where precise material interaction occurs. This spatial segmentation allows both fast transport and precise control to coexist in different parts of the system
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 approach reduces the time and labor required for multiple tests by increasing the number of interaction sites geometrically, facilitating efficient material interaction and observation, while maintaining control over fluid transport and diffusion.
Implementation Method 1
segregated from the first fluid path by a convection controller at a first contact region
Implementation Method 2
allowing the first and second materials to interact at the contact region
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to fluidic systems and, in particular, fluidic arrays and methods for using them to promote interaction of materials. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a microfluidic system. The microfluidic system includes a first fluid path and a second fluid path segregated from the first fluid path by a first convection controller at a first contact region, wherein at least one of the first fluid path and the second fluid path has a cross-sectional dimension of less than about 1 millimeter. In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of promoting interaction. In another aspect, the invention relates to a device and method for performing titrations.