Microfluidic Device Integrated Stirring Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microfluidic systems face limitations in stirring and mixing due to the need for external stirring systems, which restricts their use and increases costs, and manual stirring requires optimal sealing to prevent cross-contamination, especially in parallel analyses.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic device with an integrated stirring structure using MEMS technology, featuring a semiconductor body with a well and a stirring structure comprising suspended beams that can be actuated by electrical potential to generate agitation, allowing for efficient mixing and dissolution of reagents within the chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external stirring systems are used, then stirring function is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the stirring function with the reaction chamber by integrating a stirring structure directly into the microfluidic device. The stirring structure includes a stirring element positioned within the reaction chamber that can be rotated to agitate the liquid, eliminating the need for separate external stirring systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reaction chamber serves multiple functions: it contains the liquid sample, provides optical paths for analysis, and houses the stirring structure for mixing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Ease of operation
If manual stirring is used, then mixing is achieved, but cross-contamination risk increases between parallel chambers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stirring function into independent units, with each reaction chamber containing its own stirring structure. This segmentation allows each chamber to be stirred independently without mechanical connection to adjacent chambers, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining mixing capability in parallel analyses.
3Ease of operation
If external stirring systems are used, then stirring is provided, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stirring structure is manufactured as an integrated component with the reaction chamber using the same microfabrication process. The stirring element is formed as part of the chamber structure, eliminating the need for separate external stirring components and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
The integrated stirring structure enables efficient and independent operation of each reaction chamber, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and lowering costs by eliminating the need for external stirring systems, while ensuring fast and complete solubilization of reagents.
Implementation Method 1
The stirring structure includes a first stirring portion coupled to said semiconductor body and has a first suspended beam configured to move and generate agitation of fluid in said well
Data Source
AI summary
A microfluidic device, comprising: a semiconductor body, having a first side and a second side, opposite to one another in a first direction; and at least one well, configured for containing a fluid, extending in the semiconductor body starting from the first side and being delimited at the bottom by a bottom surface. The microfluidic device further comprises a stirring structure integrated in the well at the bottom surface, the stirring structure including a first stirring portion coupled to the semiconductor body and provided with at least one first suspended beam configured for being moved in a second direction so as to generate, in use, agitation of the fluid present in said well.