Microfluidic Sample Input Chamber with Filter Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microfluidic systems face challenges in efficiently processing various types of samples without losses and clogging, particularly at the 'World-to-Chip Interface', where manual handling and filtration are limited by the need for trained personnel and complex equipment.
Innovation Solution
A novel sample input chamber design with a filter module divides the chamber into two sub-volumes, allowing for pressure-driven filtration and contamination-free sample input using a pierceable septum, enabling manual handling of higher pressures and flexible filter configurations for different samples, reducing clogging and enhancing sample preparation before microfluidic processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling and filtration are used at the World-to-Chip Interface, then sample processing can be performed, but it requires trained personnel and complex equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation through automated pressure generation and filtration. The reservoir chamber allows direct sample deposition, and the integrated filter module automatically separates particles without requiring manual intervention or specialized personnel, making the system easy to operate while reducing equipment complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the reservoir chamber, filter module, and microfluidic system into a single integrated cartridge. This combination eliminates the need for separate complex equipment for sample handling and filtration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation
2Productivity
If filtration is performed inside the microfluidic system, then sample preparation can be done, but it increases the risk of clogging and breakdown of fragile samples
Solution Approach 1:
The filter module is positioned upstream in the reservoir chamber, performing filtration before samples enter the microfluidic channels. This preliminary action removes particles that could cause clogging in downstream microfluidic components, preventing breakdown of fragile samples while maintaining efficient sample preparation
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the sample processing into two distinct zones: the reservoir chamber with the filter module for initial filtration, and the microfluidic system for subsequent analysis. This segmentation allows filtration to occur in a robust environment before samples enter delicate microfluidic channels, protecting sample integrity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single sample input chamber is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot efficiently process various types of samples without losses
Solution Approach 1:
The sample input chamber is segmented into a reservoir chamber for sample deposition and a filter module for particle separation, with the filtered sample then transferred to microfluidic channels. This segmentation enables efficient processing of various sample types by separating the filtration function from the analysis function, enhancing versatility without excessive structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reservoir chamber with integrated filter module serves multiple functions: it acts as a sample storage reservoir, a filtration unit, and a transfer chamber to the microfluidic system. This multi-functionality allows a single chamber structure to handle various sample types efficiently, improving adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity
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 facilitates efficient, contamination-free sample processing and preparation, reducing the risk of clogging and breakdown of fragile samples, allowing for a wider range of analyzable materials and assays, and enabling quicker results by initiating filtration steps outside the microfluidic system.
Implementation Method 1
the sample input chamber can be divided by a filter module at least into a first sub-volume and a second sub-volume
Implementation Method 2
the chamber comprises for this purpose a pierceable membrane, in particular a septum, or a valve, which is only flowed through by fluid in one direction
Implementation Method 3
a pressure exceeding the pressure outside the chamber can be set in the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A system for transferring a sample into a microfluidic system, including a sample loading chamber, wherein a first sub-volume of the sample loading chamber is separated from at least one second sub-volume of the sample loading chamber by a filter module. The first sub-volume forms a pressure chamber provided for the loading of the sample, and there is at least one second sub-volume for providing the microfluidic system with the sample.