Patent ID: 8540416
Filing Date: 2013-09-24
Classification: B01F,B01L,B33Y,G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A microfluidic flow merging apparatus comprising: first and second tributary channels; an effluent channel; a junction formed at the joining of the first and second tributary channels, and the effluent channel; a flow obstruction formed within the junction; at least one fluid sensor configured proximate to the junction to sense the presence of working fluids; a pressure pump configured to drive a working fluid flow in one of the tributary channels; and a controller configured to be in operable communication with the fluid sensor and the pressure pump, wherein the first and second tributary channels, the effluent channel, the junction, and the flow obstruction are formed by walls comprising a hydrophilic material, and wherein the controller is configured to control the pressure pump responsive to a signal from the fluid sensor.