Microfluidic flow control device
US6629820B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 26, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 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 in a channel in a microfluidic flow control device by introducing fluid to the channel, with the fluid flowing in a flow direction and controllably deforming material defining the channel in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction to control fluid flow in the channel. The channel is formed between a first plate and a second plate and controllably deforming material defining the channel comprises deforming at least one of the first and second plates. Material defining the channel extends continuously between an inlet port and an outlet port. Controllably deforming material defining the channel preferably comprises deforming the first plate into contact with a seat formed in the second plate to close the channel. The seat may be formed by a ridge having a smoothly changing profile in section across the channel. The method may be operated to generate a pumping, filtering, trapping or mixing function. Apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.