Sample Testing Substrate With Passive Flow Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for testing samples face challenges in preventing liquid mixing in the sample chamber, requiring large liquid reservoirs and complex external pumping systems.
Innovation Solution
A substrate with a passive blocking element that can assume a closed or open position to control fluid exchange between the sample chamber and liquid containers, allowing selective liquid transport without active actuation, thus eliminating the need for external pumps and valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If external pumps and valves are used to transport liquids through the sample chamber, then liquid transport capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid system uses self-regulating passive blocking elements that automatically control liquid flow between reservoirs and the sample chamber based on pressure differentials, eliminating the need for external pumps and valves. The system serves itself by utilizing natural pressure gradients generated during liquid introduction and removal processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the complex active pumping and valve control systems from the fluid system, replacing them with simple passive blocking elements integrated directly into the substrate. This extraction simplifies the overall device while maintaining liquid transport functionality.
2Reliability
If large liquid reservoirs are used to prevent liquid mixing in the sample chamber, then liquid mixing prevention is improved, but volume of stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The passive blocking elements are positioned in advance within the fluid system to prevent liquid mixing at the source. By placing these blocking elements between the reservoirs and sample chamber, the system prevents mixing before it can occur, eliminating the need for oversized reservoirs that would be required to ensure complete liquid exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid system is segmented into separate compartments (reservoirs and sample chamber) with passive blocking elements acting as selective barriers. This segmentation allows independent liquid storage in reservoirs while controlling flow to the sample chamber, preventing mixing without requiring large reservoir volumes.
3Reliability
If complete exchange of all liquid in the substrate is performed to prevent mixing, then liquid mixing prevention is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Passive blocking elements are positioned in advance to control liquid flow paths, allowing selective exchange of liquids in the sample chamber without requiring complete evacuation and refilling of the entire substrate. This preliminary positioning of blocking elements enables partial liquid exchange that prevents mixing while conserving sample volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The passive blocking elements create local control over liquid flow at specific positions within the fluid system. This allows liquid exchange to be performed locally in the sample chamber region rather than requiring complete exchange throughout the entire substrate, reducing overall liquid loss while maintaining mixing prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a substrate for testing samples, in particular cells or molecules, wherein the substrate comprises a fluid system comprising a sample chamber configured in the substrate for storing and testing samples and at least one liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the sample chamber, and wherein the substrate comprises a passive blocking element capable of assuming a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position a fluid exchange between the sample chamber and the liquid reservoir is blocked.