Modular multiple nozzle system with interchangeable hub-chip configuration for production of multi-layer droplets and fibers and method therefor

A modular, multi-fluidic, multi-nozzle system comprising:

• a hub having:
• a first port for admitting a first fluid from a first external fluid source into the hub;
• a second port for admitting a second fluid from a second external fluid source into the hub;
• a first internal fluid reservoir in communication with the first port for receiving and holding a first quantity of the first fluid;
• and
• a second internal fluid reservoir in communication with the second port for receiving and holding a first quantity of the second fluid;
• a plurality of recesses arranged radially about an axial center of the circular hub, and in flow communication with each of the first and second internal fluid reservoirs;
• a plurality of fluid droplet generation chips each being removably secured in the recess, and each including first and second flow paths in communication with the first and second internal fluid reservoirs, and each having an opening at a lower end thereof forming an ejection port;
• the fluid droplet generation chips each being configured to receive a stream of the first fluid and a stream of the second fluid, and to release the two streams simultaneously through the ejection port in a manner by which double emulsion fluid droplets are created in which a second quantity of the first fluid is fully encapsulated within a second quantity of the second fluid.

A method for generating double emulsion droplets, comprising:

• providing a hub;
• using a first port formed on the hub for admitting a first fluid from a first external fluid source into the hub;
• using a second port formed on the circular hub for admitting a second fluid from a second external fluid source into the hub;
• using a first internal fluid reservoir within the hub and in communication with the first port for receiving and holding a first quantity of the first fluid;
• using a second internal fluid reservoir within the hub and in communication with the second port for receiving and holding a first quantity of the second fluid;
• using a plurality of recesses arranged radially about an axial center of the circular hub, and in flow communication with each of the first and second internal fluid reservoirs, to receive a corresponding plurality of fluid droplet generation chips, each said fluid droplet generating chip being removably secured in the recess, and each including first and second flow paths in communication with the first and second internal fluid reservoirs, and each having an opening at a lower end thereof forming an ejection port;
• using the fluid droplet generation chips to each receive a stream of the first fluid and a stream of the second fluid, and to release the two streams simultaneously through the ejection port in a manner by which a simultaneous parallel plurality of double emulsion fluid droplet streams are created in which a second quantity of the first fluid is fully encapsulated within a second quantity of the second fluid to form each said double emulsion droplet.