Modular Fluidic Chip Segmentation for Versatile Flow Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microfluidic devices are inflexible, requiring entire device re-manufacturing for function changes, limiting experimental versatility and accuracy due to fixed designs and incompatibility with other devices, and are restricted in size and structural expansion.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluidic chip system allowing connection of multiple chips with varying functions, featuring adaptable flow channels and connection members that can be easily coupled and decoupled, enabling flexible configuration and replacement of damaged components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional microfluidic devices are manufactured with fixed functions, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates requiring entire device re-manufacturing for function changes
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device is divided into multiple independent modules, each capable of performing specific functions. These modules can be connected through connection members to form different device configurations, allowing functional adaptability without re-manufacturing the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection members are designed with universal coupling structures that can connect different module types. This universal interface allows the same connection member to work with various modules, enabling multiple functions through different module combinations while maintaining standardized manufacturing processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional microfluidic devices are designed with fixed structures, then device complexity is reduced, but versatility deteriorates limiting experimental configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The device structure is segmented into standardized modules that can be arranged in different configurations. Each module has a simplified internal structure, but the overall system achieves experimental versatility through modular combination and reconfiguration.
3Ease of repair
If conventional microfluidic devices are manufactured as integrated units, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but ease of repair deteriorates requiring entire device replacement when one function fails
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into replaceable modules connected through connection members. When one module fails, only that specific module needs to be replaced rather than the entire device, improving ease of repair while maintaining system reliability through modular redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
Defective modules can be easily removed and replaced with new or refurbished modules. The connection members are designed to facilitate quick disconnection and reconnection, enabling rapid replacement and recovery of system functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional microfluidic devices have fixed designs, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates preventing compatibility with other devices
Solution Approach 1:
The connection members incorporate universal coupling structures with standardized dimensions and connection protocols. This allows modules designed with different specific functions to be compatible with each other, enabling device compatibility while maintaining precise manufacturing through standardized interfaces.
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 the creation of versatile fluidic flow systems with various structures, allowing for accurate and diverse experimental data collection, reducing maintenance costs and enabling rapid experimental condition changes by allowing specific components to be promptly replaced.
Implementation Method 1
The connection member may be formed of an elastic material, and may be configured to open the flow channel by being compressed in an axial direction and at the same time, expanded in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction when the connection member is subjected to pressure in the axial direction through the other modular fluidic chip coupled to one side thereof, and configured to close the flow channel by being restored by an elastic force when the pressure is released.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular fluidic chip includes a body configured to have at least one flow channel formed in an inside thereof and be connected to another modular fluidic chip to allow the at least one flow channel to communicate with a flow channel provided in the other modular fluidic chip. A fluidic chip capable of performing one function is formed in the form of a module, whereby a fluidic flow system of various structures can be implemented without restriction in shape or size by connecting a plurality of fluidic chips capable of performing different functions as necessary. Through this, various and accurate experimental data can be obtained, and when a specific portion is deformed or damaged, only the fluidic chip corresponding thereto can be replaced, thereby reducing manufacture and maintenance costs.