Microfluidic systems and methods for combining discrete fluid volumes
US7318912B2 · kind B2 · utility
46Cited by
36References
15Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 16, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 15, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 14, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/2575
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Microfluidic devices capable of combining discrete fluid volumes generally include channels for supplying different fluids toward a sample chamber and means for establishing fluid communication between the fluids within the chamber. Discrete fluid plugs are defined from larger fluid volumes before being combined. Certain embodiments utilize adjacent chambers or subchambers divided by a rupture region such as a frangible seal. Further embodiments utilize one or more deformable membranes and/or porous regions to direct fluid flow. Certain devices may be pneumatically or magnetically actuated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.