Remote valving for microfluidic flow control
US6615856B2 · kind B2 · utility
25Cited by
21References
54Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 3, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 9, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 3, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/2224
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of controlling fluid flow within a microfluidic circuit using external valves and pumps connected to the circuit is disclosed. The external valves and pumps, which are not a part of the microfluidic substrate, control fluid pumping pressure and the displacement of air out of the fluid circuit as fluid enters into the circuit. If a valve is closed, air cannot be displaced out of circuit, which creates a pneumatic barrier that prevents fluid from advancing within the circuit (under normal operating pressures). Applications of this method of fluid control are explained.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.