Modular Nanofluidic Interface for Microchip Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microfluidic devices of disparate designs often prove incompatible due to lack of standards for external dimensional form factors and internal pathway geometries, making them difficult to connect with upstream purification and downstream analytical devices, and are limited by sample volume requirements that exceed the scale of existing analytical devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular nanofluidic technology allows for the connection of microchips with fluidic circuits using diaphragm valves and elastomeric membranes, enabling the integration of multiple functions across devices and facilitating sample preparation and analysis by modulating fluid flow through actuation layers and microfluidic channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If microfluidic devices of disparate designs are used to reduce sample volume requirements, then sample volume requirements are reduced, but compatibility with upstream purification and downstream analytical devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized interface that enables microfluidic devices to universally connect with various upstream purification devices and downstream analytical devices. The standardized external dimensional form factors and internal pathway geometries allow a single interface design to work across multiple device types and applications, making the system multi-functional and highly adaptable while maintaining reduced sample volume capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If microfluidic devices are designed with standardized interfaces, then compatibility with upstream and downstream devices is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the interface design into distinct, modular components: external dimensional form factors, internal pathway geometries, and connection protocols. This segmentation allows each component to be independently standardized and optimized, reducing overall design complexity while maintaining comprehensive compatibility across different device types
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular nanofluidic technology is used to integrate multiple functions across devices, then functional integration is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by creating a hierarchical modular architecture where standardized interfaces nest within a framework of standardized connection protocols, which in turn nest within an overall system integration framework. This nested structure allows multiple functions to be integrated across devices while managing complexity through layered standardization, where each layer handles specific aspects of integration
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
This modular approach enables the creation of automated nanoscale sample preparation and analysis systems, allowing for efficient processing and transfer of samples between devices, accommodating larger sample volumes and improving compatibility with macroscale automation systems.
Implementation Method 1
displacement of said elastomeric membrane modulates fluid flow across said at least three microfluidic channels
Implementation Method 2
application of pressure or a vacuum to said at least one actuation channel causes said elastomeric membrane to modulate a flow of a fluid
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses the integration of programmable microfluidic circuits to achieve practical applications to process biochemical and chemical reactions and to integrate these reactions. In some embodiments workflows for biochemical reactions or chemical workflows are combined. Microvalves such as programmable microfluidic circuit with Y valves and flow through valves are disclosed. In some embodiments microvalves of the present invention are used for mixing fluids, which may be part of an integrated process. These processes include mixing samples and moving reactions to an edge or reservoir for modular microfluidics, use of capture regions, and injection into analytical devices on separate devices. In some embodiments star and nested star designs, or bead capture by change of cross sectional area of a channel in a microvalve are used. Movement of samples between temperature zones are further disclosed using fixed temperature and movement of the samples by micropumps.