Observation Chip Stacked Channel Flow Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing observation chips face disturbances in the flow of sample fluid, making it difficult to observe the sample properly due to the design of channels and the introduction of sheath liquids, which affects the analysis and sorting of cells.
Innovation Solution
The observation chip is designed with a stacked configuration of substrates forming multiple channels, where a first channel is surrounded by branch channels that merge to form a second channel, with an observation section further away from the merging point, ensuring a constant length in the thickness direction to stabilize the flow of sample fluid and prevent disturbances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sheath liquid channels are introduced from multiple directions (vertical and horizontal) to surround the sample channel, then the sample fluid can be properly contained and observed, but the flow of sample fluid becomes disturbed and cannot be observed properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar channel arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked substrate configuration. The first channel extends in a first direction on a first substrate, while the second channel extends in a second direction (thickness direction) on a second substrate, creating spatial separation that prevents flow disturbance while maintaining containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The observation chip is divided into multiple substrates stacked in the thickness direction, with each substrate containing specific channel portions. This segmentation allows independent optimization of sample flow path and sheath liquid introduction paths, reducing mutual interference and flow disturbance.
2Reliability
If channels are integrated and merged to form a surrounding structure, then the sample fluid can be effectively contained, but the channel complexity increases making manufacturing more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The complex integrated channel structure is divided across multiple substrates, with each substrate fabricated separately using standard microfabrication techniques. The channels on different substrates are then aligned and bonded, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the integrated functionality of the surrounding channel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing the thickness direction (second direction) for channel arrangement, the patent creates a three-dimensional channel configuration that achieves effective sample containment without requiring complex planar integrations. This vertical stacking approach simplifies fabrication compared to creating complex three-dimensional structures in a single substrate.
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 stabilizes the flow of sample fluid, allowing for effective observation and analysis without disturbances, improving the ability to sort cells accurately.
Implementation Method 1
an observation section provided on a side farther away from the first channel than the overall merging point in the second channel, and transmitting electromagnetic waves from outside to the second channel
Data Source
AI summary
An observation chip 1 includes: a plurality of substrates 10 stacked in a thickness direction Z of the substrates; a first channel 25 extending along a first axis O1 along the substrates; a surrounding channel 30 surrounding the first channel all around in a cross section orthogonal to the first axis in the first channel from an end of the first channel to an overall merging point P2 of the first channel, integrated with the first channel, and forming a second channel 55 that extends along a second axis O2 along the substrates; and an observation section 60 provided on a side farther away from the first channel than the overall merging point in the second channel, and transmitting electromagnetic waves from outside to the second channel. A length of the second channel in the thickness direction is constant from the overall merging point to the observation section.