Micropost Substrate Liquid Patterning via Surface Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional channel-type liquid patterning methods are limited by the need for additional processes or equipment, result in non-uniform patterns, are time-consuming, and restrict the shape and size of patterns, and are challenging for patterning multiple liquids.
Innovation Solution
A non-channel-type liquid patterning device using a substrate with vertically protruding microposts and a liquid mover, such as a wiper or nozzles, that leverages surface tension to pattern liquids without additional equipment, allowing for uniform and flexible pattern formation regardless of liquid-material affinity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If channel-type liquid patterning method is used, then liquid can be patterned at desired position by surface tension, but additional equipment (suction pump) and processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the suction pump and microchannel from the system, replacing them with a simplified microstructure consisting of microposts directly on the substrate surface. This eliminates the need for additional equipment while maintaining the liquid positioning capability through surface tension control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the liquid patterning function into discrete micropost structures arranged in specific patterns on the substrate surface. Each micropost acts as an independent element that controls liquid behavior through its geometric parameters, allowing precise liquid positioning without complex equipment.
2Measurement precision
If channel-type liquid patterning method is used, then liquid patterning can be achieved, but patterning is not uniform due to affinity between microfluid and post material
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by making each micropost have uniform geometric parameters (height, diameter, spacing) that create consistent surface tension effects across the entire substrate surface. This uniformity ensures that liquid patterning is consistent regardless of the liquid-material affinity, as the surface tension control is localized to each micropost structure.
3Area of stationary object
If channel-type liquid patterning method is used, then liquid can be confined to microchannel, but patterned area is very limited by microchannel size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional channel confinement to two-dimensional surface patterning by arranging microposts in various geometric patterns on the substrate surface. This allows liquid to be confined and patterned across much larger areas with flexible shape configurations, including circles, squares, triangles, and custom patterns, rather than being restricted to linear channel geometries.
4Measurement precision
If channel-type liquid patterning method is used, then liquid patterning can be performed, but it is time-consuming and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables self-service liquid patterning where the micropost structures automatically control liquid behavior through surface tension without requiring external suction pumps or complex control systems. When liquid is applied to the substrate, it is naturally confined and patterned by the micropost arrays, eliminating the need for time-consuming suction processes and simplifying the overall procedure.
5Quantity of substance
If channel-type liquid patterning method is used, then single liquid can be patterned, but patterning multiple liquids is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the substrate surface into multiple independent micropost pattern regions, where each region can be optimized for different liquid types. This allows simultaneous or sequential patterning of multiple liquids with different properties (water-based, organic, viscous, low-viscosity) by applying each liquid to its corresponding micropost pattern area, greatly enhancing multi-liquid capability compared to sequential channel filling.
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
Enables faster, simpler, and more versatile liquid patterning with no limits on pattern shape or size, facilitating wider application in biology and easy recovery of patterned liquids, including multiple liquids simultaneously.
Implementation Method 1
patterning a liquid at a desired position by a surface tension between a microstructure including a plurality of microposts and a liquid
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a liquid patterning device and liquid patterning method. The liquid patterning device includes: a substrate having a flat bottom and a surface; at least one microstructure formed to vertically protrude from the surface of the substrate and including a plurality of unit microposts so as to have a desired shape; and a liquid mover for moving a liquid to be patterned on the surface of the substrate in another direction from one direction of the microstructure.