MSM Alloy Micropump with Integrated Electrodes and Window
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Typical micropumps do not enable chemical or optical analysis of fluids within the microcavity during pumping and cannot stop a small sample of fluid for analysis.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating microelectrodes and a transparent window between the inlet and outlet of the micropump, allowing for electrochemical and optical analysis by controlling the displacement of the microcavity with a magnetic field, enabling electrochemical measurements and optical detection of fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a typical micropump is used for fluid pumping, then fluid transport is achieved, but chemical or optical analysis cannot be performed on the fluid within the microcavity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the micropump function with analysis functions by integrating microelectrodes for electrochemical analysis and a transparent window for optical analysis directly into the pump body structure. This allows the same device to perform both fluid pumping and multiple types of fluid analysis without requiring separate analytical instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The micropump is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating electrodes that enable electrochemical measurements and a transparent window that enables optical detection. This universal design allows the device to handle fluid transport, electrochemical analysis, and optical analysis within a single integrated platform.
2Productivity
If continuous pumping is performed, then fluid transport efficiency is improved, but a small sample of fluid cannot be stopped within the pump for analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field applied to the MSM alloy is dynamically controlled to adjust the microcavity position. By varying the magnetic field strength and direction, the microcavity can be moved to different locations along the channel, including stopping positions adjacent to electrodes or the transparent window, allowing analysis to be performed at specific points during the pumping cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The pumping operation uses periodic magnetic field application to the MSM alloy, creating cyclic expansion and contraction of the microcavity. This periodic action allows the fluid sample to be repeatedly positioned at analysis zones, enabling both continuous pumping and intermittent analysis operations.
3Speed
If the microcavity is moved continuously from inlet to outlet, then pumping function is achieved, but the fluid cannot be held for electrochemical or optical analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares for analysis by pre-positioning the microcavity at specific locations adjacent to electrodes or the transparent window during the pumping cycle. This preliminary positioning ensures that when analysis is needed, the fluid sample is already at the appropriate location, minimizing analysis time and allowing rapid switching between pumping and analysis modes.
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 efficient electrochemical and optical analysis of small fluid samples within the micropump, allowing for the identification and quantification of substances, cells, or particles, improving analysis capabilities beyond traditional micropumps.
Implementation Method 1
a single crystal of a magnetic shape memory (MSM) alloy... The magnetic field, from a rotating cylindrical magnet, creates a microcavity in the MSM element
Implementation Method 2
The microelectrodes may enable electrochemical measurements on the fluid flowing through the pump... a potentiostat may be used to electrochemically reduce or oxidize the solution in the microcavity
Implementation Method 3
The window may enable optical detection and analysis of a fluid within the pump for each cycle... an optical detector may be used to count cells or particles as they are pumped through the micropump
Data Source
AI summary
A micropump includes a body with an inlet and an outlet defined therein. A channel connects the inlet to the outlet. The micropump further includes a magnetic shape memory (MSM) alloy positioned within the channel. The MSM alloy selectively forms a barrier between the inlet and the outlet. The micropump also includes an electrode and/or a transparent window positioned along a surface of the channel. A cavity is selectively formed within a surface of the MSM alloy due to a magnetic field. The cavity is selectively moveable between a first position adjacent to the inlet, a second position adjacent to the electrode and/or the transparent window, and a third position adjacent to the outlet, by altering the magnetic field. By altering a magnetic field applied to the MSM alloy, a fluid may be pumped from the inlet to the electrode and/or the transparent window where the fluid may be analyzed. The fluid may be subsequently pumped to the outlet.