Pneumatic valve interface for use in microfluidic structures

Abstract

A pneumatic valve for use in laminated plastic microfluidic structures. This zero or low dead volume valve allows flow through microfluidic channels for use in mixing, dilution, particulate suspension and other techniques necessary for flow control in analytical devices.

1 . A device for controlling flow in microfluidic devices comprising: 
 a first substrate having at least one microfluidic structure manufactured therein;    a first flexible sheet placed on top of at least a portion of said microfluidic structure; and    means for creating a pressure differential onto said first flexible sheet such that a portion of said sheet moves in relationship to said microfluidic structure wherein the cross-section of said microfluidic structure is altered at least in one dimension such that the fluid resistance in said microfluidic structure is altered.    
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1  further comprising a second microfluidic structure on the opposite side of said first flexible sheet for transmitting pressure through air or fluid flow onto a specific location of said first flexible sheet such that a portion of said sheet moves in relationship to said microfluidic structure such that the cross-section of said microfluidic structure is altered at least in one dimension such that the fluid resistance in said microfluidic structure is altered.  
     
     
         3 . A device for controlling flow in microfluidic devices, comprising: 
 a first substrate having at least one microfluidic structure manufactured therein;    a first flexible sheet placed on top of a at least a portion of said microfluidic structure; and    means for creating pressure onto multiple, individually addressable locations on said first flexible sheet such that one or more potions of said sheet move in relationship to said microfluidic structure such that the cross-section of said microfluidic structure is altered at least in one dimension in one or more locations such that the fluid resistance in said microfluidic structure is altered in one or more locations such that fluid flow through said microfluidic structure can be directed or altered.