Patent ID: 8124026
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: B01L,F04B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A micro-assay device comprising: a micro-reactor for sample fluid analysis; a first fluidic element for introducing a sample fluid into the micro-reactor; and an injector fluid pump for pushing the sample fluid along a sample fluid flow path of the micro reactor, the injector fluid pump including an initially closed integral injector fluid reservoir containing an aqueous injector fluid; an initially dry microporous injector fluid flow path having an injector fluid application end for accepting the injector fluid from the reservoir and an injector fluid effluent end for connecting to the sample fluid flow path, the injector fluid flow path automatically filling with the injector fluid up to the effluent end upon supply of the injector fluid to the injector fluid application end; a valve for opening the reservoir and selectively supplying the injector fluid from the reservoir to the injector fluid application end; an isolator for preventing passive injector fluid flow from the effluent injector fluid into the sample fluid flow path when the injector fluid flow path includes the injector fluid; driving means for electro-osmotically pumping the injector fluid in the injector fluid flow path across the isolator to force the injector fluid into the sample fluid flow path, when the sample fluid flow path includes the sample fluid, for advancing the sample fluid in the sample fluid flow path by hydraulically pushing the sample fluid along the sample fluid flow path with the injector fluid; and a sealing element for sealing the injector fluid flow path along a perimeter thereof to prevent flow of the injector fluid from the injector fluid flow path at the perimeter during electro-osmotic pumping of the injector fluid.