Microfluidic Assembly Coupling Devices via Sliding Valve Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic devices lack the capability to efficiently integrate and control multiple processes in a single, miniaturized system, leading to inefficiencies in sample handling and analysis, particularly in biological applications where rare and expensive reagents are used.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic assembly comprising two devices coupled by an interface with a sliding valve, allowing for fluidic connection and disconnection of flow paths, enabling the execution of separate processes such as sample cleanup and analysis without manual handling, using materials like polyimide for one device and glass for optical detection in the other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple microfluidic processes are integrated into a single device, then system miniaturization and reagent volume reduction are achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic system is divided into multiple separate devices (first microfluidic device, second microfluidic device) that can be coupled together. Each device can perform specific functions (e.g., sample preparation, analysis) while maintaining individual simplicity. The segmentation allows complex multi-process functionality to be achieved through composition of simpler modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from integrating multiple processes in a single planar device to stacking multiple devices in three-dimensional space. The coupling interface enables vertical or spatial arrangement of devices, effectively using the third dimension to achieve system integration without increasing the complexity of individual device layers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple microfluidic processes are executed in separate devices, then process control flexibility is improved, but system integration and miniaturization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple microfluidic devices are merged into a single coupled system through a standardized interface. The interface combines fluidic connections, electrical connections, and mechanical alignment features, enabling the merged system to function as an integrated unit while preserving the functional independence and control flexibility of individual devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface is designed with universal characteristics that can accommodate different device types and processes. The interface supports various connection modes (permanent, temporary, reversible) and can couple different material compositions (glass, plastic, silicon), making the system adaptable to multiple applications while maintaining integrated functionality.
3Reliability
If permanent coupling of microfluidic devices is used, then system stability is improved, but adaptability and reconfigurability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface transitions from static permanent bonding to dynamic reconfigurable connections. The interface allows devices to be coupled and decoupled multiple times while maintaining stable fluidic and electrical connections during operation. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt its configuration based on different experimental requirements while ensuring reliability when coupled.
4Ease of operation
If manual handling of intermediate products between processes is performed, then process flexibility is maintained, but contamination risk and handling time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupled microfluidic system enables continuous automated transfer of intermediate products from the first device to the second device through integrated flow paths and pumping systems. The continuous fluidic connection eliminates manual intervention steps, maintaining process flexibility through automated control while eliminating contamination risks associated with manual handling.
Data Source
AI summary
A microfluidic assembly (1;57) has at least one microfluidic flow path (17,27,29,35,38;82,85,95) and at least one inlet port (11,13,15;81,97,101) coupled to the flow path (17,27,29,35,38;82,85,95). The microfluidic assembly (1;57) has a first microfluidic device (7;63) that executes a microfluidic process and has a second microfluidic device (9;61). The microfluidic assembly (1;57) has an interface (5;65). The interface (5;65) couples the first microfluidic device (7;63) and the second microfluidic device (9;61).