Microactor, method for displacing a fluid and method for manufacturing a microactor

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a microactuator that uses a water-containing actuator fluid embedded within a hydrogel (specifically, a superabsorbent polymer such as polyacrylic acid) to move or control the movement of fluids at a microscale. The actuator can generate gas bubbles in the hydrogel either thermally or via electrolysis, which in turn move a membrane or diaphragm, allowing precise manipulation of fluids. The patent also details manufacturing methods for integrating the hydrogel and electrodes into microfluidic systems, making miniaturized pumps and valves.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Integration in lab-on-a-chip devices for biomedical and chemical analysis.
• Microfluidic pumps and valves for point-of-care diagnostic devices.
• Controlled drug delivery systems using microscale fluid actuation.
• Automated sample handling in analytical chemistry or biosensor platforms.
• Portable, compact fluid handling systems for environmental monitoring.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• No need for separate actuator fluid filling after manufacture – the fluid is stored in the hydrogel.
• Enables precise, programmable, and reversible movement of fluids at the microscale.
• Compatible with biological samples due to low-temperature operation, avoiding damage to sensitive analytes.
• Easily integrable into microchips using established manufacturing processes (e.g., screen printing, photolithography).
• Supports both pump and valve functions, enabling a wide variety of fluidic control schemes in compact devices.
• Potential for dynamic operation and repeatable use by recombining electrolyzed gases back into water with a catalyst.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The micro actors (1) has a partly water containing actor fluid (3). The actor fluid is introduced in the fluid absorbing material. The fluid absorbing material consists of a hydro gel (6) which is a super absorbent polymer contains polyacrylic acid. The hydro gel consists of a thermally stimulated hydro gel. The micro actuator has a flexible diaphragm brought in contact with the fluid (2). An independent claim is included method for moving and controlling the movements of fluids, has a microactor.