Thermal microvalves

US8617905B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN · US

Inventors

• Mark A. Burns · Ann Arbor, US
• Brian N. Johnson · Ann Arbor, US
• Michael Chen · Wellsville, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 5, 2011
• Grant date: Dec 31, 2013
• Expiry date: Jan 7, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T436/2575
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The movement and mixing of microdroplets through microchannels is described employing silicon-based microscale devices, comprising microdroplet transport channels, reaction regions, electrophoresis modules, and radiation detectors. The discrete droplets are differentially heated and propelled through etched channels. Electronic components are fabricated on the same substrate material, allowing sensors and controlling circuitry to be incorporated in the same device.