Ring-Shaped Micro-Channel Mixing Structure for Low Reynolds Number Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
In miniaturized biochemical analysis systems, the mixing of sample and reagent liquids with low Reynolds numbers in micro-channel structures often results in uneven mixing, leading to inaccurate inspection results due to the limited size of the channels.
Innovation Solution
A fluid mixing structure featuring a first channel, a mixing recess that becomes ring-shaped with a first block, and a second channel, where the reagent and sample liquids flow through the ring-shaped channel with second blocks to enhance mixing evenness, creating turbulence for effective mixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If micro-channel structure is used for mixing, then device miniaturization is achieved, but mixing evenness deteriorates due to low Reynolds numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing recess is divided into multiple segments by the first block and plurality of second blocks, creating a segmented flow path. This segmentation disrupts the laminar flow and enhances mixing by creating multiple flow directions and increasing the interfacial area between the reagent liquid and sample liquid, thereby resolving the mixing evenness problem in miniaturized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a simple linear micro-channel to a three-dimensional mixing recess with blocks positioned at different heights and locations. This dimensional expansion creates vertical and radial flow components in addition to the horizontal flow, enhancing mixing efficiency while maintaining the compact footprint of the miniaturized device.
2Device complexity
If simple micro-channel is used, then device complexity is reduced, but mixing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing structure utilizes the kinetic energy and flow characteristics of the liquids themselves to drive the mixing process. The first block and second blocks are strategically positioned to exploit the natural flow patterns, creating turbulence and enhancing mixing without requiring external energy input or complex control mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity while improving mixing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the flow path by introducing blocks with specific dimensions, positions, and arrangements. These parameter changes create localized flow disturbances, expansion regions, and contraction zones that enhance mixing efficiency. The blocks are designed with optimized dimensions to maximize turbulence generation while minimizing pressure drop and energy loss.
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 structure ensures even mixing of reagent and sample liquids, improving the accuracy of biochemical analysis by increasing turbulence and mixing efficiency, even at low Reynolds numbers, thereby enhancing the reliability of inspection results.
Implementation Method 1
the reagent liquid and the sample liquid are disturbed by the second blocks in the ring-shaped channel, so that mixing evenness is increased
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid mixing structure adapted to mix a reagent liquid and a sample liquid is provided. The fluid mixing structure includes a first channel, a mixing recess, a first block, a plurality of second blocks, and a second channel. The mixing recess is communicated with the first channel. The first block is disposed in the mixing recess, so that the mixing recess becomes a ring-shaped channel. The second blocks are disposed in the ring-shaped channel. The reagent liquid and the sample liquid are mixed into a mixing liquid in the ring-shaped channel. The second channel is communicated with the mixing recess. The mixing liquid flows out of the mixing recess through the second channel.