Segmented Capillary System for Clog-Free Sample Metering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for bio-analysis of complex samples face challenges in matching capillary forces between membranes and papers, leading to clogging issues due to small capillary sizes and varying hydrodynamic forces, which complicates affinity assays and sample processing.
Innovation Solution
A system using a porous matrix within a sample capillary that allows for low hydrodynamic force application, enabling efficient sample collection and metering without a microfluidic capillary stop, allowing larger capillary diameters to prevent clogging and facilitate debris passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If small capillary sizes are used in microfluidic designs, then hydrodynamic force can be controlled for affinity assays, but clogging occurs due to debris in complex samples
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the capillary structure into two distinct segments: a large-diameter collection capillary (1-10 mm) for sample intake that prevents clogging, and a small-diameter downstream capillary (10-100 μm) for controlled hydrodynamic force during affinity assays. This segmentation allows each segment to optimize its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from using a single capillary dimension to a multi-dimensional capillary system where the collection capillary operates in a larger diameter dimension while the analysis capillary operates in a smaller diameter dimension. This dimensional separation resolves the contradiction between preventing clogging and controlling hydrodynamic force.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If larger capillary diameters are used to prevent clogging, then debris passage is improved, but hydrodynamic force control for affinity assays becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary system is segmented into upstream and downstream sections with different diameters. The upstream collection capillary has a large diameter (1-10 mm) to prevent clogging and facilitate debris passage, while the downstream analysis capillary has a small diameter (10-100 μm) to provide precise hydrodynamic force control for affinity assays.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the capillary system are assigned different local qualities (diameter sizes) appropriate for their specific functions. The collection section has large diameter for debris handling, while the analysis section has small diameter for hydrodynamic control, allowing each local region to optimize its performance.
3Loss of time
If microfluidic capillary stops are used to control flow, then affinity assay timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the complex microfluidic capillary stop component from the system. Instead, it relies on the natural hydrodynamic properties of the capillary network and pressure differential control to achieve timing for affinity assay steps, significantly simplifying the device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The capillary system self-regulates flow and timing through its inherent hydrodynamic characteristics and pressure differential mechanisms, eliminating the need for external microfluidic capillary stops or complex control systems to manage affinity assay timing.
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 approach reduces the hydrodynamic force required for sample processing, prevents clogging, and allows for accurate and convenient sample collection and analysis, maintaining efficient flow and debris passage with minimal hydrodynamic force, enhancing the reliability of affinity assays.
Implementation Method 1
A method for collection and metering of a sample in a porous matrix held in a sample capillary upon contact with the sample
Implementation Method 2
Liquid is applied to the sample capillary with a porous matrix capillary containing a sample to remove target analytes by application of hydrodynamic force
Data Source
AI summary
A method for collection of complex samples and bio-analysis of the same. Specifically, a system having a porous wicking matrix, at least one capillary, analyte detection microwell was with porous surface and a filtration well, for bio-analysis of complex samples, which enable processing of biomolecule capture and/or immunoassay detection. The system allows for processing samples such as: wholeblood, serum, plasma, urine, wound fluid, bronchial lavage, and sputum. Amounts available for measure range from 0.1 μL to 1 mL.