Tape-to-Tape Fluidic Transfer for High-Speed Biological Sample Mixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing bodily fluids are laborious and time-consuming, and there is a need for high-speed mixing or transfer of reagents and samples to improve detection and diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A method involving tape-to-tape fluidic transfer using serpentine belt assemblies and compression rollers to facilitate high-speed mixing and transfer of biological samples and reagents, allowing for perpendicular movement and pulsed fluidic operations to exceed the burst pressure limits of channels without compromising integrity, enabling faster and more efficient testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual testing methods are used for bodily fluids, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and testing speed are significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is divided into multiple independent tapes, each containing specific channels for sample loading, reagent mixing, and detection. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously, dramatically increasing throughput while keeping each individual tape module relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control of fluid flow through programmable pumps and valves that can rapidly switch between different channels and operations. This dynamic control enables automated high-speed operation without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between speed and simplicity.
2Productivity
If high-speed fluidic transfer is implemented, then productivity increases, but the risk of compromising channel integrity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies controlled compression forces through rollers before and during fluidic transfer operations to prevent channel bursting. By pre-applying gentle compression and maintaining it during high-speed transfer, the system cushions against pressure spikes that would otherwise compromise channel integrity at high speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic pressure control to regulate fluid flow through the channels during high-speed operations. By controlling backpressure and flow rates through pneumatic actuators, the system enables rapid fluidic transfer while maintaining pressures within safe limits that preserve channel integrity.
3Productivity
If automated tape-to-tape fluidic transfer is used, then productivity and testing volume increase, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tape design incorporates universal, multi-functional elements that perform multiple operations within a single integrated structure. Channels serve both as sample transport pathways and reaction vessels, while compression rollers simultaneously seal channels and drive fluid flow. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, lowering overall system complexity despite high automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-aligning tape interfaces and automatic sample/reagent dispensing mechanisms that reduce the need for complex external positioning and control systems. The tapes are designed to automatically engage with the correct ports and channels through geometric constraints, and the fluidic system self-regulates flow distribution across multiple channels without requiring complex valve arrays for each individual channel.
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 method enables high-speed fluidic transfer and mixing, increasing the number of samples tested and reducing costs by automating the process, while maintaining sample integrity and facilitating rapid reaction observation.
Implementation Method 1
compression rollers to facilitate high-speed mixing and transfer of biological samples and reagents
Implementation Method 2
serpentine belt assemblies and compression rollers to facilitate high-speed mixing and transfer
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices for testing a biological sample are provided. A tape includes multiple channels or reservoirs having inlet and outlet ports. One tape having biological sample disposed in its channels is temporarily mated with another tape having reagents disposed in its channels via a serpentine belt and compression roller assembly. Pulsed fluidic operations combine the reagents and the biological sample for subsequent observation, detection, storage and/or disposal. Fluidic transfer is provided in a uniform operation or in conjunction with a sensory feedback assembly.