Microfluidic Delivery Member Filter for Nozzle Blockage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microfluidic refill cartridges face blockages in nozzles due to particles, both within the fluid and contaminants introduced during assembly, which can prevent proper fluid flow despite the presence of filters.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a filter configured to block particles larger than the nozzle diameter and using a fluid transport member with a polymer structure that minimizes contamination, along with a method of assembling the microfluidic delivery member to reduce downstream contaminants, ensuring the filter is positioned effectively between the fluid transport member and the nozzles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter is assembled into the microfluidic refill cartridge to block particles in the fluid, then particle filtration is improved, but contaminants introduced during assembly can still block the nozzles downstream from the filter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-filtering assembly contaminants during the manufacturing process. A filter is integrated into the microfluidic delivery member before assembly, and the entire assembly process occurs in a controlled environment (e.g., cleanroom) to prevent contaminant introduction. This ensures that both fluid particles and assembly contaminants are addressed before the product reaches the customer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a dedicated filter component within the microfluidic delivery member that acts as a barrier between the fluid reservoir and the nozzles. This filter serves as an intermediary element that captures particles from the fluid while allowing fluid passage, and its strategic placement ensures that even assembly contaminants downstream are blocked before reaching the nozzles.
2Manufacturing precision
If the nozzle diameter is reduced to achieve finer fluid delivery, then printing precision is improved, but the nozzle becomes more susceptible to blockage by particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a filter with a pore size specifically designed to capture particles larger than the nozzle diameter before they can reach the nozzle. The filter is integrated into the microfluidic delivery member upstream of the nozzle, ensuring that particles are removed from the fluid path before they could potentially block the fine nozzle opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized filtering zone within the microfluidic delivery member. The filter is positioned specifically in the fluid path upstream of the nozzle, creating a local quality improvement where particle removal occurs precisely where needed, without affecting other parts of the system. This localized approach allows the nozzle to maintain its small diameter for precision while the filter provides targeted particle removal.
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
Prevents nozzle blockages by filtering out particles and minimizing contamination, ensuring consistent fluid flow through the microfluidic delivery system.
Implementation Method 1
The filter may be configured to block particles above a threshold size to prevent blockage in the nozzles
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to microfluidic refill cartridges and methods of assembling same. The microfluidic refill cartridges include a microfluidic delivery member that includes a filter for filtering fluid passed therethrough. The filter may be configured to block particles above a threshold size to prevent blockage in the nozzles. For instance, particles having a dimension that is larger than the diameter of the nozzles can block or reduce fluid flow through the nozzle.