| WARF: P06428US |  |
| Magnetically Driven Micro-Pumping Method Using External Rotating Stirrer |
| INVENTORS | • | David Beebe, Ivar Meyvantsson, Dongshin Kim |
The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) is seeking commercial partners interested in developing a simple and inexpensive peristaltic pumping method for use in a microfluidic system.
OVERVIEW
Micro-total analysis systems involve different microfluidic components integrated into a single platform. These systems require continuous fluid flow through a microfluidic channel, which is generally achieved using external devices, such as a syringe or peristaltic pump, or using voltages across the channel to generate electrokinetic or electro-osmotic flow. However, those methods require expensive and/or complicated external equipment.
THE INVENTION
UW-Madison researchers have developed a simple and inexpensive peristaltic pumping method for use in a microfluidic system. This method uses magnetic coupling between embedded magnets in a microfluidic device and an externally rotating magnetic stirrer, which is typically available in commercial hotplates. The magnets are located along a flexible layer that partially defines a fluid-filled microchannel. The peristaltic pumping motion of the channel is generated when the magnets are attracted and then repelled in sequence by the magnetic stirrer, which is placed underneath the device.
APPLICATIONS
- Continuous fluid flow in a microfluidic system
KEY BENEFITS
- Simple and inexpensive to build
- Easily actuated by a magnetic stirrer or other adjustable magnetic field
- Does not require external connections to the microfluidic device
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For More Information About the Inventors
Intellectual Property Status
Patent applied for.
Tech Fields
Micro & Nanotech - Microfluidics
CONTACT INFORMATION
For current licensing status, please contact our team at
licensing@warf.org
or phone 608.262.4924. (Clicking this link will open a contact form in a popup window. If you have problems viewing the form, try disabling your popup blocker software.)
Since its founding in 1925 as the patenting and licensing organization for the University of Wisconsin-Madison, WARF has been working with business and industry to transform university research into products that benefit society. WARF intellectual property managers and licensing staff members are leaders in the field of university-based technology transfer. They are familiar with the intricacies of patenting, have worked with researchers in relevant disciplines, understand industries and markets, and have negotiated innovative licensing strategies to meet the individual needs of business clients.
