Layer-to-layer parallel fluidic transportation system by addressable fluidic gate arrays

This paper presents addressable fluidic gate arrays for a layer-to-layer parallel fluidic transportation system. The proposed addressable fluidic gate consists of double valves driven by pneumatic pressure. One of the double valves is controlled by the row channel and the other is controlled by the column channel for row/column addressing. Our study applies addressable fluidic gate arrays to layer-to-layer transportation beyond a typical in-plane fluidic network system. The layer-to-layer transportation makes it possible to collect targeted samples from a testing well plate. 3 × 3 fluidic gate arrays based on the proposed concept are developed and tested. A single PDMS valve (φ400 μm) can be closed by 75.0 kPa. The demonstrated fluidic system is based on all PDMS structures by taking account of its disposable use. This paper also reports a dome-shaped chamber for robust sealing and a switching valve with a bistable diaphragm for memory function.