Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
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

Three dimensional hydrodynamic focusing in a dual curvature, single layer, single sheath microfluidic device
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