Patent
Three dimensional hydrodynamic focusing in a dual curvature, single layer, single sheath microfluidic device
Abstract
The invention is a single-layer microfluidic device designed for three-dimensional hydrodynamic focusing of a sample fluid using a sheath fluid. The device uses curves in a microchannel to achieve complete 3D focusing with a simplified structure, reducing the need for multiple sheath inlets and complex fabrication processes.
Type of IP
Faculty
Department
Societal Impact
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Simplified fabrication and operation reduce costs in research and industrial applications
- Improved Medical Diagnostics: Potential applications in flow cytometry for better detection and analysis of biological samples
Salient technical features and Advantages of the Technology
- Simplified Fabrication: Single-layer design which is fabricated of PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane) reduces complexity and cost
- Effective 3D Focusing: Achieves complete 3D focusing with a single sheath inlet which simplifies the design and reduces the need for additional pumps High Throughput: Capable of high flow rates, enhancing sample processing efficiency.
- Versatility: Suitable for various applications including flow cytometry, optical waveguides, and more
- Curved Microchannel Design: Utilizes two curvatures to achieve vertical and horizontal focusing
- Hydrodynamic Focusing: Achieves complete 3D focusing by using secondary flows generated by the curves
Technology readiness level
3
Current Status of Technology
At present the prototype has been developed and tested with different flow rates and demonstrated effective 3D focusing of blood cells
Relevant Industries
Microfluidic Industries - Diagnostics and Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals
Applications or Domain
- Flow Cytometry: Employed in medical research and diagnostics to count and examine cells and particles
- Biomedical Research: Ideal for studying various biological samples such as blood cells and bacteria
- Chemical Analysis: Enables precise control and measurement of fluid samples in chemical experiments
- Microfluidics Research: Essential for development and testing new microfluidic devices and applications
- Optical Waveguides: Enhances the precision of light guidance in optical applications