Microfluidic Processing Stations for Automated Sample Filling and Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional molecular biology analysis systems, particularly those employing PCR and dPCR, are complex, require extensive setup procedures, large workspaces, and have low automation and throughput due to manual labor-intensive processes.
Innovation Solution
A processing apparatus that integrates multiple stations for sample preparation and analysis, including a first station for filling and sealing microfluidic devices and a second station for analysis, connected by a transfer device, enabling automated and efficient handling of liquid samples within a compact footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional PCR systems are used with manual setup procedures, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but device complexity and workspace requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (sample filling, sealing, and analysis) into a single integrated microfluidic device. The device integrates the input well, sealing mechanism, and reaction chamber into one compact structure that can be processed automatically, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device is designed as a multi-functional platform that performs multiple operations (sample reception, sealing, and analysis) within a single device structure. This universal design allows the system to handle various molecular biology analyses without requiring separate specialized equipment for each step.
2Ease of operation
If manual labor is used for sample preparation, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity and throughput decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device is designed to be self-contained and self-processing. Once the liquid sample is introduced into the input well, the device automatically performs sealing and analysis operations without requiring continuous manual intervention. This self-service capability enables automated high-throughput processing while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Ease of manufacture
If separate stations are used for sample preparation and analysis, then functional clarity is maintained, but the workspace area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the sealing element is integrated within the microfluidic device housing, and the analysis components are embedded within the sealed chamber. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional stations to be compacted into a single small-footprint device, reducing workspace area while maintaining functional clarity.
4Reliability
If extensive setup procedures are required, then preparation thoroughness is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device is pre-configured with integrated sealing mechanisms and analysis components before use. The device arrives in a ready-to-use state where all necessary functional elements are pre-assembled and positioned, eliminating the need for extensive setup procedures while ensuring preparation thoroughness is maintained.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a processing apparatus (10) for processing at least one microfluidic device (12) which includes at least one input well (14) configured to receive a liquid sample. The processing apparatus (10) includes a first station (50) configured for filling the liquid sample into the input well (14) and/or for sealing the input well (14) from an environment, once the input well (14) is at least partially filled with the liquid sample. The processing apparatus (10) includes a second station (52) configured for performing at least one analysis of the liquid sample. The processing apparatus (10) includes a transfer device (54) which at least partially connects the first station (50) and the second station (52) and which is configured for transferring the microfluidic device (12) between the first station (50) and the second station (52). The present disclosure also relates to a kit and a method for processing at least one microfluidic device (12).