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US 2012/0077231 A1Published application
Thermal Microvalves
AssigneeThe Regents of the University of Michigan
InventorsMark A. Burns, Brian N. Johnson, Michael Chen
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The movement and mixing of microdroplets through microchannels is described employing silicon-based microscale devices, comprising microdroplet transport channels, reaction regions, electrophoresis modules, and radiation detectors. The discrete droplets are differentially heated and propelled through etched channels. Electronic components are fabricated on the same substrate material, allowing sensors and controlling circuitry to be incorporated in the same device.
Claims15
1-29. (canceled)
A method, comprising:
- a) moving a liquid along a channel defined within a generally planar substrate;
- b) heating a mass of meltable material disposed adjacent to the channel within the substrate;
- and
- c) moving the heated mass of meltable material into the channel by increasing a gas pressure acting on a side of the mass of the meltable material that is opposite the channel, wherein the mass of meltable material obstructs the channel.
1 more element
A method, comprising:
- a) combining first and second liquids within a channel defined within a generally planar substrate;
- b) heating a mass of meltable material disposed adjacent to the channel within the substrate;
- and
- c) moving the heated mass of meltable material into the channel by increasing a gas pressure acting on a side of the mass of the meltable material that is opposite the channel, wherein the mass of meltable material obstructs the channel.
1 more element
(canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.