Microfluidic closed-end metering systems and methods
First Claim
1. A method for metering at least one microfluidic plug from a larger fluidic volume, the method comprising the steps of:
- providing a fluid source;
providing a microfluidic metering channel having an open end and a closed end, the open end being in fluid communication with the fluid source;
providing a first deformable membrane that bounds at least a portion of the metering channel; and
deforming the first deformable membrane to draw a first fluid plug from the fluid source into the metering channel.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Microfluidic devices and methods for metering discrete plugs of fluid are provided. The microfluidic devices include an actuating channel, a metering channel and a deformable membrane disposed therebetween. The metering channel is in fluid communication with a fluid source, but is otherwise closed. The pressure in the actuating channel is varied to deform the deformable membrane. The volume of the metering channel varies in proportion with the deformation of the deformable membrane, creating a pressure differential between the metering channel and the fluid source. The pressure differential causes fluid from the fluid source to be drawn into or expelled from the metering channel.
65 Citations
27 Claims
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1. A method for metering at least one microfluidic plug from a larger fluidic volume, the method comprising the steps of:
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providing a fluid source;
providing a microfluidic metering channel having an open end and a closed end, the open end being in fluid communication with the fluid source;
providing a first deformable membrane that bounds at least a portion of the metering channel; and
deforming the first deformable membrane to draw a first fluid plug from the fluid source into the metering channel. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A device for metering at least one microfluidic plug from a larger fluidic volume, the device comprising:
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a fluid source;
a metering channel having an open end and a closed end, the open end being in fluid communication with the fluid source; and
a first deformable membrane bounding at least a portion of the metering channel;
wherein the first deformable membrane is adapted to selectively alter the volume of the metering channel to create a first pressure differential between the metering channel and the fluid source. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26)
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27. A device for metering a plurality of microfluidic plugs from a larger fluidic volume, the device comprising:
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a fluid source;
a plurality of metering channels, each having an open end and a closed end, the open end of each metering channel of the plurality of metering channels being in fluid communication with the fluid source; and
a first deformable membrane bounding at least a portion of each metering channel of the plurality of metering channels;
wherein the first deformable membrane is adapted to selectively alter the volume of each metering channel of the plurality of metering channels to create a first pressure differential between each metering channel of the plurality of metering channels and the fluid source.
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Specification