Methods and systems for fluid control in microfluidic devices
US6575188B2 · kind B2 · utility
234Cited by
152References
34Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 18, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 18, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/2191
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention relates to a valve for use in a microfluidic system. The valve includes a substrate defining an upstream channel and a downstream channel joined by a passage, wherein the passage comprises a first opposed wall disposed at an angle to a central axis of the upstream channel. A thermally responsive substance (TRS) obstructs the passage. At least a portion of the TRS that obstructs the passage abuts the first opposed wall. Upon the actuation of the heat source in thermal contact with the TRS an opening motion of the TRS opens the passage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.