Curved and Flexible Microfluidics

Case ID:
C11270

C11270: Novel Self-assembly Method for Complex Shaped 3D Microfluidics

Novelty:

New way to self-assemble thin, flexible, and complex shaped microstructure with microfluidic channels

Value Proposition:

New folding method by Johns Hopkins researchers allows creation of complex shaped curvilinear microstructures with microfluidic channels that are anatomically relevant. Other advantage of the invention includes:

• Direct site-specific delivery of payload by enabling spatiotemporal control of microchemical environment external to channels
• Rapid and simultaneous fabrication of numerous microfluidic device by utilizing “chip-based” assembly
• Thin (< 40 micron), flexible, and transparent structure that can be flattened and re-assembled
• Wide range of applications in both biological and non-biological spaces

Technical Details:

Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a new way to self-assemble complex shaped microstructures with microfluidic channels. Compromised of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and SU-8, biocompatible polymers widely utilized in conventional microfluidic and cell culture, this invention can spontaneously fold and unfold itself utilizing stress-gradient. The invention is fabricated with micropatterned pores atop the channels to enable the delivery of chemicals to specific regions directly external to the device. It uses 'chip-based" assembly (i.e. conventional 2D microfabrication), allowing rapid and simultaneous fabrication of microfluidic devices. Application space for the invention is broad; it can serve as a cell culture scaffold itself, enabling the directed growth of cells into complex anatomically relevant geometries, or it can be utilized to locally control the temperature of flexible electronic devices.

Looking for Partners:

To develop and commercialize the technology as self-assembly method in microfluidics

Stage of Development:

Discovery

Data Availability:

Under NDA/CDA

Publications/Associated Cases:

Nature Communications 2, 527 (2011)

Patent Information:
Title App Type Country Serial No. Patent No. File Date Issued Date Expire Date Patent Status
Curved and Flexible Microfluidics PCT: Patent Cooperation Treaty United States 13/880,321 9,375,873 4/18/2013 6/28/2016 10/25/2031 Granted
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For Information, Contact:
Mohit Ganguly
mgangul1@jh.edu
410-614-0300
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