Microfluidic Mixing Device with Integrated Thermal and Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic mixing devices require multiple trace syringe pumps for mixing multiple liquid sets, leading to operational inconvenience, risk of injury, high costs, and inefficient detection due to separate devices for heating/cooling and mixing processes, which affect precision and portability.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic mixing device with a single pressure control module, integrated heating and cooling modules, and a thermally conductive member that allows for simultaneous pressure and temperature control within a compact unit, enabling efficient mixing and detection without the need for multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trace syringe pumps are used to mix multiple liquid sets, then the mixing capability is improved, but the hardware cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple liquid injection functions into a single microfluidic chip with multiple channels, eliminating the need for multiple trace syringe pumps. The chip integrates multiple liquid reservoirs, channels, and mixing chambers in one device, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining the ability to mix multiple liquid sets simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chip serves multiple functions: it stores multiple liquid reservoirs, transports liquids through channels, mixes them in chambers, and delivers the mixed liquids to detection ports. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized devices (syringe pumps, mixers, detectors) with a single integrated chip.
2Temperature
If separate heating/cooling devices are used for temperature control, then the temperature control capability is improved, but the space occupation and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates heating and cooling functions directly into the microfluidic chip structure. Heating elements and cooling channels are embedded within the chip body, allowing temperature control of the liquid samples without requiring separate external heating/cooling devices. This merging of functions reduces the overall device volume and improves portability.
3Temperature
If the microfluidic chip is moved into separate heating/cooling devices, then the temperature control is improved, but the detection precision deteriorates due to environmental changes during movement
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating temperature control functions within the chip itself, the patent eliminates the need to move the chip between separate heating/cooling devices. The liquid samples remain in a stable, controlled environment throughout the entire detection process, preventing environmental changes that would affect detection precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trace syringe pumps are used, then the mixing of multiple liquid sets is improved, but the operational convenience and safety deteriorate due to needle bonding and injury risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical needle-bonding system of trace syringe pumps with a microfluidic chip system that uses capillary forces, pressure gradients, and integrated valves to control liquid flow. This substitution eliminates the need for manual needle bonding and reduces the risk of operator injury while maintaining the ability to precisely control multiple liquid streams.
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 solution reduces hardware costs, enhances detection efficiency, and improves precision by integrating all necessary operations within a portable device, ensuring consistent results without environmental interference during mixing and detection.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure control module (2) connected to the gas port (112) of the base (11)
Implementation Method 2
a heating module (3) coupled to the thermally conductive member (13)
Implementation Method 3
The thermally conductive member (13) is made of a material with a high thermal conductivity
Implementation Method 4
a cooling module (4) coupled to the thermally conductive member (13)
Data Source
AI summary
A microfluidic mixing device includes a body having a base, a sealing cover, and a thermally conductive member. The base includes a compartment. A chip access opening is defined in an end of the compartment. An engagement opening is defined in the other end of the compartment. The base further includes a gas port intercommunicated with the compartment. The sealing cover is detachably mounted to the base to seal the chip access opening. The thermally conductive member is mounted to the base and seals the engagement opening. A gas passage is defined between the thermally conductive member and an inner periphery of the base, is located in the compartment, and intercommunicates with the gas port. A pressure control module is connected to the gas port of the base. A heating module is coupled to the thermally conductive member. A cooling module is coupled to the thermally conductive member.