Patent attributes
A microfluidic system. The system comprises: (A) a microfluidics platform comprising: a compliant body having a microfluidic channel defined therein; a valve sleeve defined by a section of the microfluidic channel, the valve sleeve having a membrane wall defining part of an outer surface of the body; and a compression member for pinching the membrane wall against an opposed wall of the valve sleeve; and (B) a MEMS integrated circuit bonded to the outer surface of the body, the MEMS integrated circuit comprising: a moveable finger engaged with the compression member, the finger being configured to urge the compression member between a closed position in which the membrane wall is sealingly pinched against the opposed wall, and an open position in which the membrane wall is disengaged from the opposed wall; a thermal bend actuator associated with the finger, the actuator configured for controlling movement of the finger; and control circuitry for controlling actuation of the actuator so as to control opening and closing of the valve sleeve.
