Microfluidic Lid Segmentation for Sealed Port Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microfluidic devices require improved systems for efficient operation and manipulation of micro-objects, including fluid handling, temperature control, and structured light application, which are not adequately addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a lid with separable fluid ports, fluid lines with thermally-controlled flow controllers, and a light modulating subsystem to interface with microfluidic devices, along with a support for integration with a microscope, enabling precise fluid handling, temperature regulation, and structured light emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closed lid structure is used to retain the microfluidic device, then fluid handling is improved, but accessibility to fluid ports is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into a first lid portion and a second lid portion that can be separated from each other. The first lid portion remains attached to the base to maintain the enclosed environment, while the second lid portion can be detached to provide access to the second fluid port. This segmentation allows the system to maintain both the enclosed fluid handling capability and the accessibility needed for sample loading.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple fluid ports are sealed to maintain enclosed operation, then contamination is reduced, but sample loading becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The lid structure transitions from a static fully-enclosed design to a dynamic partially-openable design. The second lid portion can be moved between a closed position that seals the second fluid port and an open position that exposes it for sample loading. This dynamic capability allows the system to switch between contamination protection and ease of operation as needed.
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
Facilitates efficient manipulation and analysis of micro-objects by providing controlled fluid flow, temperature management, and structured light application, enhancing the operational capabilities of microfluidic devices.
Implementation Method 1
at least one flow controller operatively coupled with one or both of the first and second fluid lines, the at least one flow controller comprising a first thermally-controlled flow controller operatively coupled with a flow segment of one or both of the first fluid line and the second fluid line to selectively allow fluid to flow therethrough
Implementation Method 2
a light modulating subsystem configured to emit structured light onto the microfluidic device when the microfluidic device is held by, and operatively coupled with, the support
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for operating a microfluidic device are described. The systems comprise a first surface configured to interface and operatively couple with a microfluidic device and a lid configured to retain the microfluidic device on the first surface. The lid comprises a first portion having a first fluid port configured to operatively couple with and flow fluidic medium into and/or out of a first fluid inlet/outlet of the microfluidic device and a second portion having a second fluid port configured to operatively couple with and flow fluidic medium into and/or out of a second fluid inlet/outlet of the microfluidic device. The second portion of the lid is separable from the first portion and movable between a closed position in which the second fluid port of the second portion of the cover is operatively coupled with the second fluid inlet/outlet of the microfluidic device and an open position in which a portion of the microfluidic device that contains the second fluid inlet/outlet is exposed. Other embodiments are described.