Modular Microvalve Assembly for Independent Prototyping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microfluidic valves are integrated directly into microfluidic devices during manufacturing, increasing complexity and cost, and cannot be prototyped or tested independently.
Innovation Solution
Modular microvalves comprising a valve supporter and actuator, which can be manufactured separately and independently of the microfluidic device, and are actuatable between compressed and non-compressed states to control fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If microfluidic valves are integrated directly into microfluidic devices during manufacturing, then the device functionality is complete, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is separated from the microfluidic device into two independent components: a valve body and a valve actuator. The valve body can be manufactured separately using conventional molding techniques, and the actuator can be manufactured separately. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized and manufactured independently, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining complete device functionality when assembled.
2Adaptability or versatility
If microfluidic valves are integrated directly into microfluidic devices during manufacturing, then the device is complete, but independent prototyping and testing of valves becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the valve into a separable valve body and actuator assembly, the invention enables independent prototyping and testing of valve functionality before integration into the complete microfluidic device. This segmentation allows researchers to develop and test valve mechanisms independently, then integrate them into final devices, thereby enhancing adaptability without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If microfluidic valves are integrated directly into microfluidic devices, then the system is integrated, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into independently manufacturable components (valve body and actuator assembly) that can be produced using conventional molding and assembly techniques. This approach avoids the need for complex integrated manufacturing processes, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure through modular assembly.
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 independent prototyping and testing of microfluidic valves, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost, while providing controlled fluid flow in microfluidic devices.
Implementation Method 1
the valve actuator may be actuatable between a compressed and a non-compressed state
Implementation Method 2
a compressible flex component comprising a pin
Data Source
AI summary
Modular microvalves for microfluidic devices and methods of using the same are disclosed. Further, a microfluidic system is provided that may include the presently disclosed modular microvalves installed in a microfluidic device. Further, the microfluidic system may include valve actuators in relation to the presently disclosed modular microvalves. Further, the presently disclosed modular microvalves may be manufactured separately and independently of the manufacturing process of any microfluidic device and/or system. Non-limiting examples of the presently-disclosed modular microvalves may include but are not limited to, modular pinch valves, modular rocker valves, modular slider valves, modular rotary valves, and the like.