Multichannel Microfluidic Disc for Simultaneous Biofluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multichannel microfluidic plate methods require large quantities of fluid samples and reagents, are costly, time-consuming, and limited to single-test capabilities, making them inefficient for medical research and diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A multichannel microfluidic disc testing system combining a disposable disc module with a microfluidic disc testing image recognition and measurement system, utilizing centrifugal mixing and capillary valves to analyze biofluids with minimal sample and reagent usage, featuring a dosing, spinning, testing, and analysis/control module for simultaneous multi-test analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation on a 96-well plate is used, then testing can be performed, but it consumes a lot of time, manpower, specimens and reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the testing function into multiple independent channels (first channel, second channel, third channel, fourth channel) on a single disc, allowing simultaneous testing of multiple samples. Each channel has its own reaction chamber and microfluidic pathway, enabling parallel processing that reduces total testing time and increases productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple testing functions into a single integrated disc structure that can perform four different tests simultaneously. The disc merges sample loading, reagent delivery, mixing, and detection functions into one unified platform, eliminating the need for separate 96-well plates and manual operations.
2Productivity
If current multichannel microfluidic plate methods are used, then multiple tests can be run, but they require large quantities of fluid samples and reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses nested microfluidic channels within the disc structure, where reagents and samples are delivered through hierarchical channel networks. The capillary valves and microfluidic pathways are nested within the disc layers, enabling precise control and minimal consumption of fluids while maintaining multi-test capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of fluid delivery by using capillary action and centrifugal force instead of bulk pumping. The microfluidic channels are designed with specific diameters and lengths that control flow rates at the micro-scale, reducing reagent consumption while maintaining adequate reaction volumes for accurate testing.
3Ease of operation
If current microfluidic plate methods are used, then testing can be performed, but the test strips are complicated to produce and prepare
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a disposable disc that is pre-loaded with all necessary reagents, channels, and microfluidic pathways. The disc is manufactured as a complete, self-contained unit that can be easily produced using standard microfabrication techniques. After use, the entire disc is discarded, eliminating the need for complex cleaning and preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The disc is pre-manufactured with all microfluidic channels, capillary valves, and reagent reservoirs already in place during fabrication. This preliminary preparation of the microfluidic network and reagent positioning eliminates the need for complex assembly steps during actual testing, making the system easier to operate and manufacture.
4Measurement precision
If single test focus is used, then detailed analysis can be performed, but it is minute and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The disc is segmented into multiple independent testing channels, each capable of performing a specific test with high precision. This segmentation allows detailed analysis of multiple parameters simultaneously without increasing overall system complexity, as each channel is a simplified, dedicated testing unit.
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
The system significantly reduces sample and reagent consumption, lowers costs, and accelerates testing, enabling convenient, accurate analysis of biofluid components with minimal operator expertise, suitable for medical facilities and laboratories.
Implementation Method 1
the centrifugal mixing is proceeded to form reactants
Implementation Method 2
at least one capillary valve
Implementation Method 3
the resistant characteristic produced by the fluid's surface tension on the disposable disc
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a system for testing microfluid which is made with a disposable disc. The high sensitivity, high sensing accuracy, and quick response microfluidic disc is demonstrated in the present invention. It is note that easy to test microfluid without traditional detecting method, and then reduce energy and simplify procedure. Furthermore, to additive the microfluidic disc is useful to enhance blood typing, and hence raising the sensitivity by the video recognition of blood agglutination.