Microscale Sampling Device with Discontinuous Resistance Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sampling devices are unsuitable for Point of Care Testing (POCT) due to their size and open sampling chambers, which can lead to contamination, and existing microchannel devices are limited in their ability to accurately sample clinical samples and perform group sampling.
Innovation Solution
A self-driving microscale sampling device with a frame, sample container, communicating channel, and resistance channel, where the communicating channel is arranged below the sample container and the resistance channel is shaped with discontinuous changes to balance gravity and flow resistance, allowing accurate sampling without the need for additional pressure sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a conventional large equipment with three-axis robot is used for sampling, then sampling process can be automated, but the device size becomes too large for POCT and sampling chamber is open leading to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is segmented into micro-scale components including micro sampling chambers, micro channels, and integrated resistors, allowing automation to be achieved in a compact form factor suitable for POCT applications
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are nested within each other - sampling chambers are integrated into the micro channel network, resistors are embedded within channels, and the entire microfluidic system is contained within a compact housing, achieving high automation density
2Extent of automation
If a conventional large equipment with three-axis robot is used for sampling, then sampling process can be automated, but open sampling chamber leads to sample contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic system uses closed micro channels and sampling chambers that confine the sample throughout the entire sampling process, eliminating exposure to external contamination while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The closed microfluidic environment creates an isolated, controlled atmosphere for sample handling, protecting samples from external contaminants during automated sampling operations
3Measurement precision
If electric control sampling device is used, then specific quantity of polarizable sample can be sampled accurately, but sample must withstand serious electric field change and device is only suitable for specific sample types
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses passive geometric parameters (channel width, resistor shape, channel length) rather than active electric fields to control sample flow, allowing accurate sampling of any liquid sample type without requiring polarizable properties
Solution Approach 2:
Electric field-based sample control is replaced with passive mechanical/physical structures (micro channels with integrated resistors) that use flow resistance and pressure differential to achieve accurate sampling universally
4Measurement precision
If physical control sampling device is used, then specific quantity of sample can be sampled accurately by mechanical structure, but device only operates single sampling process at same time
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic system is segmented into multiple independent sampling chambers and channels, each capable of simultaneous operation, enabling group sampling while maintaining precise quantity control through individualized resistance channels for each chamber
Solution Approach 2:
The micro channel network with integrated resistors serves as a universal platform that can simultaneously perform multiple sampling operations, replacing single-function mechanical devices with a multi-functional parallel processing system
5Measurement precision
If additional pressure sources are added to drive sample flow, then sampling accuracy can be improved, but device structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-driven flow where the sample's own gravity and pressure differential naturally drive flow through the micro channels, with passive resistors automatically regulating flow rate and sampling quantity without requiring external pressure control systems
Solution Approach 2:
Complex active pressure control systems are extracted and replaced with passive flow resistance elements integrated directly into the micro channel structure, achieving accurate sampling through simplified geometry rather than complex control mechanisms
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 accurate and efficient sampling of clinical samples without contamination, capable of handling various sample types and performing group sampling without additional pressure sources, simplifying the device structure.
Implementation Method 1
the gravity of the liquid sample could be balanced by the resistances caused by the respective resistance channels communicated with the respective sampling chambers
Implementation Method 2
the liquid sample in the sample container could be driven to flow into the respective sampling chambers by the gravity thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A microscale sampling device including a frame is provided in the present invention, a sample container, a communicating channel and a resistance channel are defined in the frame. At least one sampling chamber is defined in the communicating channel. An end of the communicating channel is communicated with the sample container and the communicating channel is arranged below the sample container. An end of the resistance channel is communicated with the sampling chamber, and the other end of the resistance channel is communicated to an output joint. The resistance channel is shaped with at least one discontinuous shape change.