ac202866b_si_001.pdf (593.82 kB)
Constant Flow-Driven Microfluidic Oscillator for Different Duty Cycles
journal contribution
posted on 2012-01-17, 00:00 authored by Sung-Jin Kim, Ryuji Yokokawa, Sasha Cai Lesher-Perez, Shuichi TakayamaThis paper presents microfluidic devices that autonomously
convert two constant flow inputs into an alternating oscillatory flow
output. We accomplish this hardware embedded self-control programming
using normally closed membrane valves that have an inlet, an outlet,
and a membrane-pressurization chamber connected to a third terminal.
Adjustment of threshold opening pressures in these 3-terminal flow
switching valves enabled adjustment of oscillation periods to between
57 and 360 s with duty cycles of 0.2–0.5. These values are
in relatively good agreement with theoretical values, providing the
way for rational design of an even wider range of different waveform
oscillations. We also demonstrate the ability to use these oscillators
to perform temporally patterned delivery of chemicals to living cells.
The device only needs a syringe pump, thus removing the use of complex,
expensive external actuators. These tunable waveform microfluidic
oscillators are envisioned to facilitate cell-based studies that require
temporal stimulation.