Abstract: Non-rigid tape apparatus and fabrication methods for microfluidic processing applications such as gel electrophoresis are provided, where microfluidic processing is performed on selected areas. Parts of the tape are formed by high pressure plastic film forming. Membranes and other structures are self sealing during and after penetration by pipettes and electrical probes. Rigid exoskeleton elements protect the non-rigid parts during processing and facilitate transport of the tape.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 27, 2002
Date of Patent:
February 28, 2012
Assignee:
LAB901 Limited
Inventors:
Stuart Polwart, Joel Fearnley, Douglas Roy, Peter Ghazal
Abstract: An analysis instrument for processing a microfluidic device, having sample storage means, a microfluidic device holder, sample loading means for loading sample into a microfluidic device disposed in the holder, processing means for enabling a reaction in a microfluidic device, and detection means for detecting and/or measuring the reaction is disclosed. The microfluidic device holder is adapted to hold the microfluidic device including a tape in position for processing and/or detection. A microfluidic processing device is also disclosed which includes a reaction chamber, and a sample loading chamber into which a sample is injectable. The reaction chamber is operatively connected to the sample loading chamber. A cover extends across at least part of the sample loading chamber. The cover and the reaction chamber include pierceable material and are separated by an overspill cavity configured to accept any overspill of an injected sample.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 8, 2006
Date of Patent:
January 24, 2012
Assignee:
Lab901 Limited
Inventors:
Stuart Polwart, Joel Fearnley, Kenneth G. Macnamara, Urs Lamb
Abstract: A pre-packaged electrophoresis cassette (1), the cassette (1) comprising a gel layer (2) and a buffer solution layer (3), the gel layer comprising a first polymer made from a monomer and a cross-linker, and being in contact with the buffer solution layer to form a gel-buffer interface (4) for receiving a sample which is to undergo electrophoresis. The gel and/or the buffer solution are such that absorption of water by the gel layer from the buffer solution layer is inhibited, thereby maintaining the performance capabilities of the electrophoresis cassette during storage.
Abstract: An analysis instrument for processing a microfluidic device, having sample storage means, a microfluidic device holder, sample loading means for loading sample into a microfluidic device disposed in the holder, processing means for enabling a reaction in a microfluidic device, and detection means for detecting and/or measuring the reaction is disclosed. The microfluidic device holder is adapted to hold the microfluidic device including a tape in position for processing and/or detection. A microfluidic processing device is also disclosed which includes a reaction chamber, and a sample loading chamber into which a sample is injectable. The reaction chamber is operatively connected to the sample loading chamber. A cover extends across at least part of the sample loading chamber. The cover and the reaction chamber include pierceable material and are separated by an overspill cavity configured to accept any overspill of an injected sample.
Type:
Application
Filed:
February 8, 2006
Publication date:
May 27, 2010
Applicant:
Lab901 Limited
Inventors:
Stuart Polwart, Joel Fearnel, Kenneth G. MacNamara, Urs Lamb