Patent ID: 6557427
Filing Date: 2003-05-06
Classification: B01F,B01J,B01L,F15C,F16K,G01N

Abstract:
A microfluidic device, comprising:a first channel having an inlet opening, an outlet, and a longitudinal section between said inlet opening and said outlet, said longitudinal section having a first portion, coupled to said inlet opening, sized to generate a first capillary pressure, and a second portion, coupled between said first portion and said outlet and spaced away from said inlet opening, sized to generate a second capillary pressure greater than said first capillary pressure; a second channel extending away from said first channel; valve means, coupling said outlet of said first channel to said second channel; and fluid introduction means; wherein when a fluid plug is introduced at said inlet opening, said fluid plug is drawn into said first channel such that said fluid plug flows into said second portion of said first channel toward said valve means such that the trailing edge of said fluid plug is completely spaced apart from said inlet opening.