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 microfluidic system comprisinga substrate having a plurality of interconnected capillary channels;a plurality of electrodes at different nodes of said capillary channels for creating electric fields in said capillary channels to move materials electrokinetically in a fl

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A microfluidic system comprisinga substrate having a plurality of interconnected capillary channels;a plurality of electrodes at different nodes of said capillary channels for creating electric fields in said capillary channels to move materials electrokinetically in a fluid through said capillary channels;a power supply connected to at least one of said electrodes, said power supply further comprisinga mixing block having a first input terminal for receiving a controllable reference voltage and a second input terminal, said mixing block responding to a sum of voltages on said first and second input voltages, and an output terminal;a voltage amplifier connected to said mixing block output terminal, said voltage amplifier having first and second output terminals, said first output terminal connected to said at least one electrode; anda feedback block connected to said first output terminal of said voltage amplifier, said feedback block having an output terminal connected to said second input terminal of said mixing block so that negative feedback is provided to stabilize said power supply.