Multi-Level Microfluidic Node with Liquid Blocking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microfluidic devices with multiple channels have a large footprint and high fabrication costs due to their complex structure, and existing designs struggle to efficiently manage fluid flow between different levels without causing short-circuits.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic device with distinct, parallel levels and a multi-level node structure that includes an inlet port, cavity, and outlet port, where the cavity is open on top and features a liquid blocking element that can be altered to allow fluid flow between channels, using a liquid pinning structure or wetting material to control fluid movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channels are integrated on the same microfluidic device, then the functional capabilities and fluid manipulation options are improved, but the device footprint and fabrication costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-level node structure where channels from different levels (first level and second level) connect through a vertical via to a cavity. This three-dimensional arrangement allows fluid flow paths to stack vertically rather than only extending horizontally, enabling multiple channels to share common connection points without increasing the device's planar footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channels are integrated on the same microfluidic device, then the functional capabilities are improved, but the fabrication complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The node is divided into distinct functional segments: an inlet port region, a cavity volume, a via connection, and an outlet port region. Each segment can be independently fabricated and assembled, with the cavity serving as a modular interface between channels on different levels. This segmentation simplifies the overall fabrication process by breaking down the complex multi-level structure into manageable components.
3Reliability
If a liquid blocking element is added to prevent short-circuits between channels, then the reliability of fluid flow control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid blocking element is designed to be alterable, transitioning from a blocking state to a non-blocking state based on fluid flow conditions or external stimuli. This dynamic behavior allows the same structural element to serve dual functions: preventing unwanted short-circuits under normal conditions while allowing controlled fluid passage when activation is required, thereby managing complexity through functional adaptability rather than adding separate static components.
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
This design reduces the footprint of microfluidic devices, allows for flexible configuration of fluidic connections, and enables efficient fluid management between channels, reducing fabrication costs and preventing short-circuits.
Implementation Method 1
The pinning structure is configured to prevent an aqueous liquid filling at the ingress of the cavity
Implementation Method 2
the cavity may possibly comprise a wetting material arranged at the liquid pinning structure, so as to allow an aqueous liquid filling the inlet port to reach the outlet port
Implementation Method 3
the liquid blocking element is an alterable element, such a hydrophobic element, placed in the cavity, or a film that seals the cavity on its bottom side
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a microfluidic device, which comprises distinct, parallel levels, including a first level and a second level. It further includes: a first microchannel, a second microchannel, and a node. This node comprises: an inlet port, a cavity, a via, and an outlet port. The cavity is formed on the first level and is open on a top side. The inlet port is defined on the first level; it branches from the first microchannel and communicates with the cavity through an ingress thereof. The outlet port, branches to the second microchannel on the second level. The via extends from the bottom side of the cavity, down to the outlet port, so the cavity may communicate with the outlet port. In addition, the cavity comprises a liquid blocking element to prevent an aqueous liquid filling the inlet port to reach the outlet port.