Microfluidic device

US9163277B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• FORMULATRIX, INC. · US

Inventors

• Kabir James Yamana · Cambridge, US
• Sean Yamana-Hayes · Vancouver, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 14, 2013
• Grant date: Oct 20, 2015
• Expiry date: Mar 14, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B01L2400/0655
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Microfluidic devices of the present disclosure relate to quick and inexpensive microfluidic manipulation/handling. A number of channels may be provided for supply of fluid ingredients to a number of cavities. A separating material may provide fluid separation between a number of cavities, such as corresponding cavities of a reaction chamber. Once the cavities are supplied with fluid ingredient, channels connecting the cavities may be sealed off; that is, the cavities may be subject to fluid isolation. In some embodiments, a sealing material may be compressed so as to deform into the channels obstructing fluid flow. The separating material may be manipulated so that the initial fluid separation between cavities is removed. Removal of this fluid separation subsequently permits mixing of fluid ingredient(s) contained within previously separated cavities. In some embodiments, the fluid separation may be removed by heating or dissolving portions of the separating material. When appropriate, contents within reaction chambers may be subject to further processing (e.g., thermal cycling, various analyzes).