Miniaturizing Microfluidics for Single-Cell Precision
A 50% footprint reduction unlocks compact, high-performance fluid control for single-cell analysis and PCR instruments.
Trapped by Space: The Microfluidics Design Challenge
In the field of single cell analysis and PCR, designing a microtiter plate with an integrated fluidic circuit (IFC) pushed engineering limits. The challenge is how to fit a dense network of valves and microfluidic channels into a compact manifold without sacrificing performance.
Traditional designs couldn’t meet the demand for space efficiency, precision, and reliability. The tight volume made fluid control difficult, and integrating multiple flow paths required exacting design and manufacturing. This complexity risked performance loss and increased development time.
The industry needed a breakthrough—one that could deliver high-functioning microfluidics in a space-constrained format.
IMI proportional valve expertise and custom manifold design help reduce footprint by 50%
The latest generation of integrated manifolds focused on miniaturization. The original large manifold, measuring 10 by 12 inches, was unsuitable for the smaller next-generation instrument. The new design using Flexisol is now roughly half the size and features compact Flexisol valves with integrated electrical pad mounting, eliminating the need for individual connections to 60 solenoid valves and utilizing PCB connections.
The PMMA manifold enables thermal laser bonding to optimize the fluidic circuit for pneumatic controls. Finite element analysis ensured proper structural support through metal bracing to prevent deformation under load.
This redesign reduced the manifold footprint by 50%, allowing a significant reduction in the instrument's overall size. The improved electrical connections also created cleaner and safer installation, providing a more compact, efficient, and reliable solution that enhances product performance and market competitiveness.
By leveraging proportional valve expertise and custom manifold design, the footprint was reduced by 50%, resulting in a more compact, efficient, and reliable solution.
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