Multi-Inlet NanoDLD Microfluidic Devices for High-Throughput Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microfluidic techniques for nanoscale particle separation and purification face challenges such as low throughput, manual preparation, high equipment costs, sample loss, long processing times, and contamination, particularly when handling small volumes for downstream analysis.
Innovation Solution
The integration of nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement (nanoDLD) arrays with multiple inlets and outlets in microfluidic devices allows for high-throughput sample preparation and analysis by laterally displacing particles based on size, enabling efficient separation and purification of nanoscale biomarkers like exosomes and DNA fragments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement arrays are used for particle separation, then separation precision is improved, but throughput rate deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides a single nanoscale DLD array into multiple independent separation channels, each capable of processing particles simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to maintain nanoscale separation precision in each channel while achieving high overall throughput by parallel processing across multiple channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-channel sequential processing approach to a multi-channel parallel processing architecture. By adding the dimension of multiple simultaneous channels, the system achieves both high precision (nanoscale separation in each channel) and high throughput (multiple channels operating in parallel).
2Productivity
If multiple inlets and outlets are integrated, then throughput rate is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple inlets and outlets serve dual functions: they enable parallel sample loading and reagent injection while also providing flexible routing for different separation modes. This multi-functionality increases throughput capabilities without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same structural elements serve multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic flow control mechanisms that allow flexible routing of fluids through different channels based on separation requirements. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different throughput demands and separation modes without requiring permanent complex structural modifications.
3Quantity of substance
If nanoscale DLD arrays are used, then sample volume requirement is reduced, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device maintains continuous flow through all channels simultaneously, eliminating batch processing interruptions. Multiple inlets allow continuous sample introduction while multiple outlets enable continuous collection of separated fractions, maintaining uninterrupted separation action across all channels to reduce total processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple inlets enable preliminary loading and preparation of different samples or reagents in parallel before actual separation begins. This preliminary parallel preparation reduces the overall processing time by pre-positioning materials that will be used in subsequent separation steps.
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 configuration enhances throughput rates, facilitates complex sample preparation processes, and reduces contamination, while maintaining low fluid volumes and reagent costs, making it suitable for high-density and high-throughput operations.
Implementation Method 1
nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement arrays in fluid communication with multiple inlets and/or outlets... The nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can laterally displace a particle comprised within a sample fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques regarding nanofluidic chips with a plurality of inlets and/or outlets in fluid communication with one or more nanoDLD arrays are provided. For example, one or more embodiments described herein can comprise a nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array between and in fluid communication with a global inlet and a global outlet. The nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can further be between and in fluid communication with a local inlet and a local outlet. Also, the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can laterally displace a particle comprised within a sample fluid supplied from the global inlet to a collection region that directs the particle to the local outlet. An advantage of such an apparatus can be the expanded versatility of the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array for sample preparation applications involving nanoparticles not accessible to other higher throughput microscale microfluidic technologies.