초록 ▼

In a microfluidic system using electrokinetic forces, the present invention uses electrical current or electrical parameters, other than voltage, to control the movement of fluids through the channels of the system. Time-multiplexed power supplies also provide further control over fluid movement by

In a microfluidic system using electrokinetic forces, the present invention uses electrical current or electrical parameters, other than voltage, to control the movement of fluids through the channels of the system. Time-multiplexed power supplies also provide further control over fluid movement by varying the voltage on an electrode connected to a fluid reservoir of the microfluidic system, by varying the duty cycle during which the voltage is applied to the electrode, or by a combination of both. A time-multiplexed power supply can also be connected to more than one electrode for a savings in cost.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of using a microfluidic system having a plurality of interconnected capillary channels and a plurality of electrodes at different nodes of said capillary channels for creating electric fields in said capillary channels to electrokinetically move materials in a fl

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of using a microfluidic system having a plurality of interconnected capillary channels and a plurality of electrodes at different nodes of said capillary channels for creating electric fields in said capillary channels to electrokinetically move materials in a fluid through said capillary channels, the method comprising:applying voltages simultaneously to at least three of said electrodes with respect to other electrodes in the system said voltages being responsive to a current at at least two of said at least three electrodes to move materials into and through one or more intersections of said plurality of channels of said system.