Microfluidic Device for Droplet Generation

A microfluidic system for the controlled generation of droplets of a sample fluid, separated by a carrier fluid that is immiscible with the sample fluid, the system comprising:

• a reservoir for containing a body of sample fluid and a body of carrier fluid in distinct layers, separated by an interface:
• a droplet generator, comprising an opening for the controlled admission of the sample fluid and the carrier fluid into the generator from the reservoir;
• a translator for moving the droplet generator opening relative to reservoir;
• and
• an active pressure system for causing droplets of the sample fluid or the carrier fluid to be drawn into the opening;
• whereby the opening can be moved relative to reservoir to be alternatively located in the sample or in the carrier fluid by moving across the interface between the sample and the carrier fluid and draw successive droplets of the sample and the carrier fluid into the droplet generator;
• wherein the droplet generator opening draws a sample droplet from below the sample reservoir