Microfluidic Valve Structure Using a Flat Flexible Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional diaphragm valves in fluid handling devices are difficult to manufacture, require complex high-temperature bonding, and are prone to enlargement due to the dome-shaped diaphragm design, making them challenging to miniaturize and easily open/close.
Innovation Solution
A fluid handling device with a groove-shaped valve seat and a flat plate-shaped flexible layer that communicates between channels when spaced apart and blocks flow when in contact, facilitated by a valve sliding member to press the flexible layer against the valve seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a dome-shaped diaphragm portion is used in a conventional valve, then the valve can be formed with a single component, but the device size increases and high-temperature bonding becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into two separate components: a groove-shaped valve seat formed on a support and a flat plate-shaped flexible layer. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with simpler geometry, avoiding the need for complex dome-shaped single-component formation while enabling high-temperature bonding of the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of forming a protruding dome-shaped diaphragm that extends outward, the invention inverts the approach by creating a groove-shaped valve seat with a recess and using a flat flexible layer that deforms within the plane. This inversion eliminates the need for the flexible layer to protrude outward, thereby miniaturizing the device while maintaining valve functionality.
2Device complexity
If a dome-shaped diaphragm portion is used in a conventional valve, then the valve structure is simple, but bonding at high temperature becomes difficult due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the valve into a rigid groove-shaped valve seat on a support and a flexible layer, the support can be bonded at high temperatures without deformation concerns, while the flexible layer is added separately. This segmentation resolves the conflict between structural simplicity and high-temperature bonding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve seat is designed with a groove-shaped recess that provides localized structural support and defines the valve geometry, while the flexible layer provides the sealing and actuating function. This local quality differentiation allows the support to withstand high temperatures during bonding while the flexible layer performs its specific function without thermal deformation issues.
3Volume of moving object
If a flat plate-shaped flexible layer is used instead of dome-shaped, then miniaturization is achieved, but valve operation reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a flat plate-shaped flexible layer that functions as a membrane to control fluid flow. The flexible layer deforms elastically in response to pressure changes, maintaining reliable valve operation while having a smaller profile than dome-shaped diaphragms. The groove-shaped valve seat provides a defined deformation path that ensures consistent sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using vertical protrusion (dome shape extending outward), the invention utilizes in-plane deformation of the flat flexible layer within the groove-shaped recess. This dimensional change allows the valve to achieve its function through lateral flexing rather than vertical displacement, enabling miniaturization while maintaining operational reliability.
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 enables easy manufacturing, miniaturization, and efficient channel opening/closing, allowing for a more reliable and compact fluid handling system.
Implementation Method 1
a flat plate-shaped flexible layer covering the groove-shaped valve seat... when the flat plate-shaped flexible layer and an inner wall of the groove-shaped valve seat are spaced apart from each other, and blocks communication between the first channel and the second channel when the flat plate-shaped flexible layer and the inner wall of the groove-shaped valve seat are in contact with each other
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention aims to provide a fluid handling device which can be manufactured more conveniently, can easily open and close a channel, and can be miniaturized. The fluid handling device of the present invention includes: a first channel; a second channel; and a valve disposed between the first channel and the second channel, in which the valve includes: a groove-shaped valve seat disposed in a board, and a flat plate-shaped flexible layer covering the groove-shaped valve seat, and the valve communicates between the first channel and the second channel when the flat plate-shaped flexible layer and a bottom of the groove-shaped valve seat are spaced apart from each other, and blocks communication between the first channel and the second channel when the flat plate-shaped flexible layer and an inner wall of the groove-shaped valve seat are in contact with each other.