Containers for liquid storage and delivery with application to microfluidic devices
First Claim
1. A container for dispensing a liquid reagent, comprising:
- a depressible dome having an outer surface, an inner surface, and an edge, wherein the inner surface comprises a protuberance having an apex; and
a sealing membrane, affixed to the edge and encapsulating the liquid reagent between the membrane and the inner surface of the dome;
wherein the protuberance is configured such that, upon application of a pressure to the outer surface of the dome, the apex of the protuberance pierces the sealing membrane, thereby dispensing the liquid reagent.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A container for a liquid reagent, wherein the container has an outer wall and an internal piercing member, such that, upon application of pressure to the outer wall of the container, the internal piercing member punctures the container from the inside, thereby liberating the liquid contained therein. Such a container is configured to store the liquid for periods between 6 to 18 months with minimal loss of the liquid inside, other than if the container is ruptured. Such a container is also configured to require a particular force to be applied to the outer wall to cause the internal piercing member to puncture the container, such a force being greater than that ordinarily experienced by the container during routine storage, transport, or handling. The container is preferably adapted for use with a microfluidic cartridge.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A container for dispensing a liquid reagent, comprising:
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a depressible dome having an outer surface, an inner surface, and an edge, wherein the inner surface comprises a protuberance having an apex; and
a sealing membrane, affixed to the edge and encapsulating the liquid reagent between the membrane and the inner surface of the dome;
wherein the protuberance is configured such that, upon application of a pressure to the outer surface of the dome, the apex of the protuberance pierces the sealing membrane, thereby dispensing the liquid reagent. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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14. A microfluidic device, comprising:
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a substrate;
a network of microfluidic channels disposed on the substrate, wherein the network has at least one opening that communicates with one of the microfluidic channels;
and situated above the opening and in contact with the network, a container for dispensing a liquid reagent, wherein the container comprises;
a depressible dome having an outer surface, an inner surface, and an edge, wherein the inner surface comprises a protuberance having an apex; and
a sealing membrane having a first side and a second side, wherein the first side is affixed to the edge, and wherein the second side is affixed to the network, and wherein a liquid reagent is contained between the first side and the inner surface of the dome;
and wherein the protuberance is configured such that, upon application of a pressure to the outer surface of the dome, the apex of the protuberance pierces the sealing membrane, thereby dispensing the liquid reagent into the opening. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16)
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Specification