Microfluidic Device with Pressure-Actuated Valves for Automated Sample Prep
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic systems for sample preparation are complex and require external control, making them difficult to automate and scale for efficient throughput in diagnostic processes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid device with a first channel section and multiple second channel sections, each connected by opening and closing elements that allow for sequential fluid transport without external control, enabling automated and scalable sample preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If microfluidic systems use sequential process steps with pneumatic elements and external control devices, then fluid transport and sample preparation can be achieved, but device complexity increases and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic system uses fluid pressure itself to activate valves and control flow paths. The sample fluid or buffer solutions automatically open valves by exceeding threshold pressures, eliminating the need for external pneumatic control systems. This self-service mechanism enables automated sample preparation while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex pneumatic control systems with a simpler pressure-based valve mechanism. Instead of using external pneumatic elements to control fluid transport, the system uses the natural pressure of flowing fluids to actuate valves, substituting a complex mechanical control system with a more straightforward pressure-driven mechanism.
2Productivity
If manual pipetting steps are used for sample preparation, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time consumption increases and error probability rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple manual pipetting operations into a single integrated microfluidic device. Sample preparation steps including lysis, binding, washing, and elution are combined into one automated flow path, increasing throughput and eliminating human error while maintaining protocol flexibility.
3Productivity
If test cartridges with preloaded reagents are used, then automated execution is enabled, but scalability in terms of throughput is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic pressure control to enable flexible sample preparation protocols. By adjusting fluid pressures in real-time, the system can adapt to different sample types and preparation requirements, enabling both automated execution and scalable throughput without complex external control.
4Ease of operation
If multiple pneumatic elements are used for fluid transport control, then precise fluid flow regulation is achieved, but the number of control devices and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control function from external pneumatic elements and integrates it directly into the fluid flow path. Valves are positioned within the microfluidic channels and activated by the fluid pressure itself, removing the need for separate control devices while maintaining precise fluid flow regulation.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The invention relates to a fluidic device comprising a first channel section and n second channel sections, wherein n ∈ ℕ and n ≥ 1, at least one opening element and at least one closing element. The device according to the invention is characterized in that: • each of the n second channel sections is arranged adjacent to the first channel section by means of an opening element; • each opening element is configured to establish a fluidic connection from the respective second channel section to the first channel section; • the first and the n second channel sections each have a receiving area; • in the first channel section, a closing element is arranged upstream of at least one of the opening elements in the flow direction of a fluid.