Fluidic device

Abstract

A fluidic device (10) is described. The fluidic device (10) comprises the first part (110) and the second part (120). The first part (110) comprises a first inlet (111) and a first outlet (112), mutually spaced apart. The second part (120) comprises a first chamber (121) arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion (122) arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber (121). The fluidic device (10) is arrangeable in a first configuration, wherein the first part (110) is fluidically isolated from the first chamber (121). The fluidic device (10) is arrangeable in a second configuration, wherein the first inlet (111) and the first outlet (112) are fluidically coupled via the first chamber (121), whereby increasing a first pressure P1 in the first chamber (121) via the first inlet (111) urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet (112).

Claims

1. A fluidic device comprising: a first part comprising: a first inlet and a first outlet, mutually spaced apart and each comprising respective perforation members; and a second inlet, fluidically coupled to the first outlet via a channel, and a second outlet, mutually spaced apart and each comprising respective perforation members; and a second part in the form of a liquid-filled blister pack comprising: a first blister providing a first chamber containing a predetermined first amount of a first fluid therein and a first wall portion arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid in the first chamber; and a second blister providing a second chamber containing a predetermined second amount of a second fluid therein and a second wall portion arranged to contain, at least in part, the predetermined second amount of the second fluid in the second chamber; wherein the fluidic device is arrangeable in: a first configuration, wherein the first fluid is isolated in the first chamber and the first part is fluidically isolated from the first chamber, and wherein the second fluid is isolated in the second chamber and the first part is fluidically isolated from the second chamber; and a second configuration, wherein the first inlet and the first outlet are fluidically coupled via the first chamber, whereby increasing a first pressure in the first chamber via the first inlet urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount of the first fluid through the first outlet, and wherein the second inlet and the second outlet are fluidically coupled via the second chamber, whereby increasing the first pressure in the first chamber via the first inlet urges at least a part of the predetermined second amount of the second fluid through the second outlet; wherein: the fluidic device is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet and the first outlet perforating through the first wall portion into the first chamber and by the second inlet and the second outlet perforating through the second wall portion into the first chamber; the first wall portion is arranged to fluidically seal around the first inlet and the first outlet in the second configuration; the second wall portion is arranged to fluidically seal around the second inlet and the second outlet in the second configuration; and the fluidic device further comprises a first coupling member arranged to couple the first part and the second part in the second configuration and the first coupling member is selected from at least one of a mechanical coupling and a coupling which interlocks the first part and the second part.

2. The fluidic device according to claim 1, comprising a second coupling member arranged to moveably couple the first part and the second part in the first configuration.

3. The fluidic device according to claim 2, wherein the second coupling member comprises a hinge or a pivot, arranged to rotatably couple the first part and the second part in the first configuration and/or the second configuration, to guide movement of the fluidic device from the first configuration to the second configuration.

4. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of: a length of the first outlet corresponds with a maximum depth of the first chamber, or a location of the first outlet corresponds with a location of the maximum depth of the first chamber.

5. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first inlet is fluidically couplable to a gas source, whereby gas provided by the gas source is arranged to displace the first fluid via the first inlet.

6. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first wall portion comprises a first layer coupled to a first edge of the first chamber.

7. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the second part is formed, at least in part, from a sheet material and wherein the first chamber comprises a concavity formed therein.

8. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the fluidic device is a microfluidic device.

9. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first part comprises a laboratory on a chip device, and wherein the first fluid is a reagent.

10. A method of controlling a fluidic device according to claim 1, the method comprising: moving the fluidic device from the first configuration to the second configuration; and increasing a first pressure in the first chamber via the first inlet thereby urging at least a part of the predetermined first amount of the first fluid through the first outlet and urging at least a part of the predetermined second amount of the second fluid through the second outlet.

11. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first chamber comprises a set of antechambers, the set of antechambers comprising: a first inlet antechamber which is arranged to correspond with the first inlet of the corresponding first part of the fluidic device and which has a wall portion arranged to support the first wall portion by substantially surrounding the first inlet antechamber; and a first outlet antechamber which is arranged to correspond with the first outlet of the corresponding first part of the fluidic device and which has a wall portion arranged to support the first wall portion by substantially surrounding the first outlet antechamber.

12. The fluidic device according to claim 11, wherein the first inlet antechamber and the first outlet antechamber are arranged proximal a first side of the first chamber, whereby the first inlet antechamber and the first outlet antechamber are arrangeable in use proximal a lower side of the first chamber.

13. The fluidic device according to claim 11, wherein the first inlet antechamber and the first outlet antechamber are arranged at a first side of the first chamber, whereby the first inlet antechamber and the first outlet antechamber are arrangeable in use at a first side a lower side of the first chamber.

14. The fluidic device according to claim 12, wherein the set of antechambers includes a second outlet antechamber arranged to correspond with the second outlet of the corresponding first part of the fluidic device.

15. The fluidic device according to claim 14, wherein the second outlet antechamber is arranged proximal an opposed second side of the first chamber, whereby the second outlet antechamber is arrangeable in use proximal the first chamber and the first inlet antechamber is arrangeable in use proximal the first chamber.

16. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first part and the second part are integrally formed as a single component.

17. The fluidic device according to claim 1, wherein the first coupling member comprises a fastener on the first part arranged to fasten through an aperture in or against a surface of the second part, or vice versa.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

(1) For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic Figures, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(3) FIG. 2 schematically depicts a second part of the fluidic device of FIG. 1 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(4) FIG. 3 schematically depicts the fluidic device of FIGS. 1 and 2 in the first configuration, in more detail;

(5) FIG. 4 schematically depicts the fluidic device of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a second configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(6) FIG. 5 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(7) FIG. 6 schematically depicts a second part of the fluidic device of FIG. 5 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(8) FIG. 7 schematically depicts the fluidic device of FIGS. 5 and 6 in a second configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(9) FIG. 8 schematically depicts the fluidic device of FIG. 7 in the second configuration, in use;

(10) FIG. 9A schematically depicts a fluidic device in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment and FIG. 9B schematically depicts the fluidic device in a second configuration;

(11) FIG. 10 schematically depicts the first part of the fluidic device of FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, in more detail;

(12) FIG. 11 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment, in more detail;

(13) FIG. 12 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment, in more detail;

(14) FIGS. 13A and 13B schematically depict moving the fluidic device of FIGS. 1 to 4 from the first configuration to the second configuration, respectively.

(15) FIGS. 14A and 14B schematically depict moving the fluidic device of FIGS. 1 to 4 from the first configuration to the second configuration, respectively.

(16) FIG. 15 schematically depicts a fluidic device in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment;

(17) FIG. 16 schematically depicts a method of manufacturing a second part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment;

(18) FIG. 17 schematically depicts a front cross-sectional view of a microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

(19) FIG. 18 schematically depicts a front cross-sectional view of another microfluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

(20) FIG. 19 schematically depicts schematically depicts a microfluidic cartridge according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

(21) FIG. 20 schematically depicts a microfluidic system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

(22) FIG. 21 schematically depicts a process of operating the microfluidic system of FIG. 20; and

(23) FIG. 22 schematically depicts a second part of a fluidic device in the second configuration, in use, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

(24) FIGS. 1 to 3 schematically depict a fluid device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment in a first configuration and FIG. 4 schematically depicts the fluidic device 10 in a second configuration.

(25) FIG. 1 schematically depicts a first part 110 of the fluidic device 10 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first part 110 of the fluidic device 10 in the first configuration, as described below in more detail.

(26) FIG. 2 schematically depicts a second part 120 of the fluidic device 10 of FIG. 1 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the second part 120 of the fluidic device 10 in the first configuration, as described below in more detail.

(27) FIG. 3 schematically depicts the fluidic device 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2 in the first configuration, in more detail. Particularly, FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first part 110 and the second part 120 of the fluidic device 10 in the first configuration, as described below in more detail.

(28) FIG. 4 schematically depicts the fluidic device 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a second configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluidic device 10 in the second configuration.

(29) In more detail, the fluidic device 10 comprises the first part 110 and the second part 120. The first part 110 comprises a first inlet 111 and a first outlet 112, mutually spaced apart. The second part 120 comprises a first chamber 121 arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion 122 arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 121. The fluidic device 10 is arrangeable in a first configuration, wherein the first part 110 is fluidically isolated from the first chamber 121. The fluidic device 10 is arrangeable in a second configuration, wherein the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 121, whereby increasing a first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111 urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 112. In this example, the fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 perforating through the first wall portion 122 into the first chamber 121.

(30) In this way, the fluidic device 10 improves control of an amount of first fluid F1 expelled therefrom, since the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 urged through the first outlet 112 is controlled, at least in part, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111. Hence, by controlling the increase in first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121, an accuracy and/or a precision of the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 urged through the first outlet 112 is improved. In this way, the inaccuracy and/or imprecision resulting from pressing manually by hand on a collapsible chamber of a conventional blister pack is eliminated by the fluidic device 10. Furthermore, in this way, a cost and/or complexity may be reduced compared with pressing mechanically by machine on a collapsible chamber of a conventional blister pack. In this way, the fluidic device 10 is suitable for use with LOC devices for POC applications.

(31) Particularly, by urging at least the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 112 by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111, substantially all or even all of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be urged through the first outlet 112. This contrasts with conventional collapsible liquid-filled blister packs, in which expelling of a full amount of liquid originally contained therein is not possible due to dead volumes forming during collapsing. Hence, when substantially all or even all of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged through the first outlet 112 of the fluidic device 10, an accuracy and/or a precision of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 121 is determinative, rather than control of the increase in first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121, for example. Since the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be automatically dispensed into the first container during manufacture thereof, for example, the accuracy and/or the precision of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 121 may be tightly controlled to high levels.

(32) The fluidic device 10 comprises the first part 110 and the second part 120. In this example, the first part 110 comprises and/or is a LOC device and the second part 120 contains a reagent for the LOC device i.e. the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 121 is the reagent for the LOC device. In this example, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are respective parts of a single device, particularly the fluidic device 10. In this example, the first part 110 and the second part 120 are integrally formed.

(33) In this example, the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 are mutually spaced apart by a first spacing S1.

(34) In this example, the first chamber 121 comprises no internal corners or dead volumes. In this way, up to all of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be urged through the first outlet 112.

(35) It should be understood that in the first configuration, the first fluid F1 is isolated in the first chamber 121, for example sealed therein, such as required for storage. That is, the first wall portion 122 and remaining walls (i.e. a second wall portion 123) of the first chamber 121 define a closed chamber (also known as a closed container) in the first configuration. In this example, the first chamber 121 is a closed chamber wherein the first wall portion 122 is arranged to close the first chamber 121. In this example, the first wall portion 122 is arranged to sealingly contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 121 in the first configuration, for example by being sealed around a periphery of the first chamber 121. In this example, the first wall portion 122 foil comprises a foil, comprising one or more layers. In this example, the first wall portion 122 comprises no perforations therethrough in the first configuration. In this example, the first chamber 121 comprises no perforations therethrough in the first configuration. In this example, the first wall portion 122 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion. In this example, the first wall portion 122 comprises a first layer coupled to a first edge 124 of the first chamber 121.

(36) In this example, the second part 120 is formed, at least in part, from a sheet material and wherein the first chamber 121 comprises a concavity formed therein.

(37) The fluidic device 10 is arrangeable in the second configuration, wherein the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 121. That is, in the second configuration, a first fluidic path P1 is defined from the first inlet 111 to the first outlet 112 through the first chamber 121.

(38) In this example, the fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 perforating through the first wall portion 122 into the first chamber 121, thereby providing a first inlet passageway 113 and a first outlet passageway 114 from the first part 110 into the first chamber 121 of the second part 120. In this example, the first inlet passageway 113 and the first outlet passageway 114 are mutually spaced apart by the spacing S1.

(39) In the second configuration, increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111 urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 112. Hence, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111, for example by introducing a gas or a liquid into the first chamber 121 through the first inlet 111, at least the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged (i.e. driven or pumped) through the first outlet 112 in turn, as described above.

(40) In this example, the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 comprise respective perforation members 115, 116 arranged to perforate through the first wall portion 122. In this example, the first wall portion 122 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion.

(41) In this example, the first part 110 comprises a planar surface 117, arranged to confront and/or contact the first wall portion 122 and the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 extend away from the surface 117. In this example, a length L1 of the first inlet 111 extending away from the surface is equal to a length L2 of the first outlet 112 extending away from the surface. In this example, respective locations of the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 correspond with a location of the first chamber 121.

(42) In this example, the first wall portion 122 is arranged to fluidically seal around the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 in the second configuration. In this way, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111, the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is constrained to be urged through the first outlet 112, rather than leak or seep, for example, via another fluid flow path.

(43) In this example, the fluidic device 10 comprises a first coupling member 130 (130A, 130B) arranged to interlock the first part 110 and the second part 120 in the second configuration. In this way, the first part 110 and the second part 120 may be held securely together in the second configuration. In this example, the first coupling member 130 (130A, 130B) comprises a latch 131 (131A, 131B) arranged to fasten through an aperture 132 (132A, 132B) in the second part 120. In this example, the fluidic device 10 comprises two (i.e. a plurality) of such first coupling members 130 (130A, 130B).

(44) In this example, the fluidic device 10 comprises a second coupling member 140, particularly a hinge 140, arranged to moveably, particularly rotatably, couple the first part 110 and the second part 120 in the first configuration and the second configuration. The hinge 140 is provided by a portion of the fluidic device 10 having a reduced thickness. In this way, the first part 110 and the second part 120 may be provided together and to guide movement of the fluidic device 10 from the first configuration to the second configuration, for example to control locations of the first wall portion 122 through which the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 perforate.

(45) In this example, the first part 110 comprises a second inlet 211, fluidically coupled to the first outlet 112 via a channel 119, and a second outlet 212, mutually spaced apart. The second part 120 comprises a second chamber 221 arranged to contain a predetermined second amount A2 of a second fluid F2 therein and a second wall portion 222 arranged to contain, at least in part, the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 in the second chamber 221. The first part 110 is fluidically isolated from the second chamber 221 in the first configuration. The second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 are fluidically coupled via the second chamber, in the second configuration, whereby increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111 urges at least a part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 through the second outlet 212. The fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 perforating through the second wall portion 222 into the second chamber 221.

(46) The second inlet 211, the second outlet 212, the second chamber 221, the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2, the second fluid F2 and the second wall portion 222 are as described herein with respect to the first inlet 111, the first outlet 112, the first chamber 121, the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1, the first fluid F1 and the first wall portion 122, respectively.

(47) In this example, the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 comprise respective perforation members 215, 216 arranged to perforate through the second wall portion 222. In this example, the second wall portion 222 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion.

(48) In this example, the second part 210 comprises the planar surface 117, arranged to confront and/or contact the second wall portion 222 and the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 extend away from the surface 117. In this example, a length L3 of the second inlet 211 extending away from the surface is equal to a length L4 of the second outlet 212 extending away from the surface. In this example, respective locations of the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 correspond with a location of the second chamber 221.

(49) In this example, the second wall portion 222 is arranged to fluidically seal around the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 in the second configuration. In this way, by increasing the second pressure P2 in the second chamber 221 via the second inlet 211, the part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 is constrained to be urged through the second outlet 212, rather than leak or seep, for example, via another fluid flow path.

(50) In this example, the fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 perforating through the second wall portion 222 into the second chamber 221, thereby providing a second inlet passageway 213 and a second outlet passageway 214 from the first part 210 into the second chamber 221 of the second part 220. In this example, the second inlet passageway 213 and the second outlet passageway 214 are mutually spaced apart by the spacing S2.

(51) Hence, the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 221 are mutually fluidically isolated in the first configuration and the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 221 are fluidically coupled in the second configuration. That is, in the second configuration, a first fluidic path is defined from the first inlet 111 to the second outlet 212 via (i.e. through) the first chamber 121, the second inlet 211 and the second chamber 221. Hence, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121 via the first inlet 111, the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged through the first outlet 112 and hence through the second inlet 211 into the second chamber 221, thereby increasing a second pressure P2 in the second chamber 221 and urging at least the part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 through the second outlet 212. In other words, in the second configuration, the first chamber 121 and the second chamber 221 are daisy-chained.

(52) In this example, the first inlet 111 is fluidically coupleable to a gas source, whereby gas provided by the gas source increases the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 121.

(53) In this example, the fluidic device 10 is a microfluidic device 10. In this example, the fluidic device 10 comprises the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2. In this example the first fluid F1 is a liquid and the second fluid F2 is a liquid.

(54) FIG. 22 schematically depicts a second part 920 of a fluidic device 900 in the second configuration, in use, according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 22 schematically depicts a plan view of the second part 920.

(55) The second part 920 comprises a first chamber 921 arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion 922 arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 921. The first chamber 921 comprises three circular antechambers, a first inlet antichamber 9211, a first outlet antechamber 9212A and a second outlet antechamber 9212B, circular second wall portions 923 of which extend around about 330° thereof (i.e. surrounding almost completely, with a relatively narrow passageway connecting to the main part of the first chamber 921), thereby providing improved structural support to the first wall portion 922 during perforation thereof. Particularly, these antechambers 9211, 9212A and 9212B are arranged to correspond with a first inlet 911, a first outlet 912A and a second outlet 912B respectively of a corresponding first part 910 (not shown) of the fluidic device 900. The fluidic device 900 is arranged vertically. In use, the first inlet antichamber 9211 and the first outlet antechamber 9212A are arranged at a lowermost side of the first chamber 921 and the second outlet antechamber 9212B is arranged proximal an opposed uppermost side of the first chamber 921.

(56) The predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 partially fills the first chamber 921. In use, the fluidic device is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by the by the first inlet 911, the first outlet 912A and the second outlet 912B perforating through the first wall portion 922 into the antechambers 9211, 9212A and 9212B respectively of the first chamber 921. Initially, the first inlet 911, the first outlet 912A and the second outlet 912B are closed, for example using respective valves. The first inlet 911 and the second outlet 912B are opened. With the first outlet 912A closed and the second outlet 912B open, gas is introduced into the first chamber 921 via the open first inlet 911 to mix the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1. This gas exits the first chamber 921 via the second outlet 912B, which is open. The second outlet 912B is closed and the first outlet 912A is opened. Gas introduced into the first chamber 921 via the first inlet 911 is pressurised in the first chamber 921 above the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1, because the second outlet 912B is closed, and urges the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 exit the first chamber 921 via the first outlet 911B, which is open. Since the first inlet antichamber 9211 and the first outlet antechamber 9212A are arranged at the lowermost side of the first chamber 921, substantially all of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be pumped out of the first chamber 921 via the first outlet antechamber 9212A. In this way, by controlling the opening and closing of the first outlet 912A and the second outlet 912B and the introduction of gas, the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be mixed in situ using the gas before being pumped out of the first chamber 921 using the gas.

(57) FIGS. 5 and 6 schematically depict a fluid device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment in a first configuration and FIGS. 7 and 8 schematically depict the fluidic device 30 in a second configuration.

(58) FIG. 5 schematically depicts the first part 310 of the fluidic device 30 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first part 310 of the fluidic device 30 in the first configuration, as described below in more detail.

(59) FIG. 6 schematically depicts the second part 320 of the fluidic device 30 of FIG. 5 in the first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the second part 320 of the fluidic device 30 in the first configuration, as described below in more detail.

(60) FIG. 7 schematically depicts the fluidic device 30 of FIGS. 5 and 6 in the second configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluidic device 30 in the second configuration.

(61) FIG. 8 schematically depicts the fluidic device 30 of FIG. 7 in the second configuration, in use. Particularly, FIG. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluidic device 30 in the second configuration.

(62) In more detail, the fluidic device 30 comprises the first part 310 and the second part 320. The first part 310 comprises a first inlet 311 and a first outlet 312, mutually spaced apart. The second part 320 comprises a first chamber 321 arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion 322 arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 321. The fluidic device 30 is arrangeable in a first configuration, wherein the first part 310 is fluidically isolated from the first chamber 321. The fluidic device 30 is arrangeable in a second configuration, wherein the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 321, whereby increasing a first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311 urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 312. The fluidic device 30 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 perforating through the first wall portion 322 into the first chamber 321.

(63) The fluidic device 30 comprises the first part 310 and the second part 320. In this example, the first part 310 comprises and/or is a LOC device and the second part 320 contains a reagent for the LOC device i.e. the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 321 is the reagent for the LOC device. In this example, the first part 310 and the second part 320 are respective parts of a single device, particularly the fluidic device 30. In this example, the first part 310 and the second part 320 are integrally formed.

(64) In this example, the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 are mutually spaced apart by a first spacing S1.

(65) In this example, the first chamber 321 comprises no internal corners or dead volumes. In this way, up to all of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 may be urged through the first outlet 312.

(66) It should be understood that in the first configuration, the first fluid F1 is isolated in the first chamber 321, for example sealed therein, such as required for storage. That is, the first wall portion 322 and remaining walls (i.e. a second wall portion 223) of the first chamber 321 define a closed chamber (also known as a closed container) in the first configuration. In this example, the first chamber 321 is a closed chamber wherein the first wall portion 321 is arranged to close the first chamber 321. In this example, the first wall portion 322 is arranged to sealingly contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 321 in the first configuration, for example by being sealed around a periphery of the first chamber 321. In this example, the first wall portion 322 foil comprises a foil, comprising one or more layers. In this example, the first wall portion 322 comprises no perforations therethrough in the first configuration. In this example, the first chamber 321 comprises no perforations therethrough in the first configuration. In this example, the first wall portion 322 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion. In this example, the first wall portion 322 comprises a first layer coupled to a first edge 323 of the first chamber 321.

(67) In this example, the second part 320 is formed, at least in part, from a sheet material and wherein the first chamber 321 comprises a concavity formed therein.

(68) The fluidic device 30 is arrangeable in the second configuration, wherein the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 321. That is, in the second configuration, a first fluidic path P1 is defined from the first inlet 311 to the first outlet 312 through the first chamber 321.

(69) In this example, the fluidic device 30 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 perforating through the first wall portion 322 into the first chamber 321, thereby providing a first inlet passageway 313 and a first outlet passageway 314 from the first part 310 into the first chamber 321 of the second part 320. In this example, the first inlet passageway 313 and the first outlet passageway 314 are mutually spaced apart by the spacing S1.

(70) In the second configuration, increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311 urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 312. Hence, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311, for example by introducing a gas or a liquid into the first chamber 321 through the first inlet 311, at least the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged (i.e. driven or pumped) through the first outlet 312 in turn, as described above.

(71) In this example, the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 comprise respective perforation members 315, 316 arranged to perforate through the first wall portion 322. In this example, the first wall portion 322 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion.

(72) In this example, the first part 310 comprises a planar surface 317, arranged to confront and/or contact the first wall portion 322 and the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 extend away from the surface 317. In this example, a length L1 of the first inlet 311 extending away from the surface is equal to a length L2 of the first outlet 312 extending away from the surface. In this example, respective locations of the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 correspond with a location of the first chamber 321.

(73) In this example, the first wall portion 322 is arranged to fluidically seal around the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 in the second configuration. In this way, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311, the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is constrained to be urged through the first outlet 312, rather than leak or seep, for example, via another fluid flow path.

(74) In this example, the first part 310 comprises a second inlet 411, fluidically coupled to the first outlet 312 via a channel 319, and a second outlet 412, mutually spaced apart. The second part 320 comprises a second chamber 421 arranged to contain a predetermined second amount A2 of a second fluid F2 therein and a second wall portion 422 arranged to contain, at least in part, the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 in the second chamber 421. The first part 310 is fluidically isolated from the second chamber 421 in the first configuration. The second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 are fluidically coupled via the second chamber 421, in the second configuration, whereby increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311 urges at least a part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 through the second outlet 412. In this example, the fluidic device 30 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 perforating through the second wall portion 422 into the second chamber 421.

(75) The second inlet 411, the second outlet 412, the second chamber 421, the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2, the second fluid F2 and the second wall portion 422 are as described herein with respect to the first inlet 311, the first outlet 312, the first chamber 321, the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1, the first fluid F1 and the first wall portion 322, respectively.

(76) That is, the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are mutually fluidically isolated in the first configuration and the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are fluidically coupled in the second configuration. That is, in the second configuration, a first fluidic path is defined from the first inlet 311 to the second outlet 412 via (i.e. through) the first chamber 321, the first outlet 312, the second inlet 411 and the second chamber 421.

(77) In this example, the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 comprise respective perforation members 415, 416 arranged to perforate through the second wall portion 422. In this example, the second wall portion 422 is a perforatable (also known as a pierceable) wall portion.

(78) In this example, the second part 310 comprises the planar surface 317, arranged to confront and/or contact the second wall portion 422 and the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 extend away from the surface 317. In this example, a length L3 of the second inlet 411 extending away from the surface is equal to a length L4 of the second outlet 412 extending away from the surface. In this example, respective locations of the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 correspond with a location of the second chamber 421.

(79) In this example, the second wall portion 422 is arranged to fluidically seal around the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 in the second configuration. In this way, by increasing the second pressure P2 in the second chamber 421 via the second inlet 411, the part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 is constrained to be urged through the second outlet 412, rather than leak or seep, for example, via another fluid flow path.

(80) In this example, the fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the second configuration to the second configuration by the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 perforating through the second wall portion 422 into the second chamber 421, thereby providing a second inlet passageway 413 and a second outlet passageway 414 from the first part 310 into the second chamber 421 of the second part 320. In this example, the second inlet passageway 413 and the second outlet passageway 414 are mutually spaced apart by the spacing S2.

(81) Hence, the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are mutually fluidically isolated in the first configuration and the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are fluidically coupled in the second configuration. That is, in the second configuration, a first fluidic path is defined from the first inlet 311 to the second outlet 412 via (i.e. through) the first chamber 321, the second inlet 411 and the second chamber 421. Hence, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311, the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged through the first outlet 312 and hence through the second inlet 411 into the second chamber 421, thereby increasing a second pressure P2 in the second chamber 421 and urging at least the part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 through the second outlet 412. In other words, in the second configuration, the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are daisy-chained.

(82) In this example, the first inlet 311 is fluidically coupleable to a gas source, whereby gas G provided by the gas source increases the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321.

(83) In this example, the fluidic device 30 is a microfluidic device 30. In this example, the fluidic device 30 comprises the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2. In this example the first fluid F1 is a liquid and the second fluid F2 is a liquid.

(84) As shown in FIG. 7, the fluidic device 30 is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 perforating through the first wall portion 322 into the first chamber 321. In the second configuration, the first inlet 311 and the first outlet 312 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 321. The fluidic device 30 is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 perforating through the second wall portion 422 into the second chamber 421. In the second configuration, the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 321.

(85) As shown in FIG. 8, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 321 via the first inlet 311, the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged through the first outlet 312 and hence through the second inlet 411 into the second chamber 421, thereby increasing a second pressure P2 in the second chamber 421 and urging at least the part of the predetermined second amount A2 of the second fluid F2 through the second outlet 412. The first fluid F1 mixes with the second fluid F2 in the second chamber 421. In other words, in the second configuration, the first chamber 321 and the second chamber 421 are daisy-chained.

(86) FIG. 9A schematically depicts a fluidic device 50 in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment and FIG. 9B schematically depicts the fluidic device 50 in a second configuration. Particularly, FIG. 9A is a transparent projectional view of the fluidic device 50 and FIG. 9B is a transparent projectional view of the fluidic device 50.

(87) In more detail, the fluidic device 50 comprises a first part 510 and a second part 520. The first part 510 comprises a first inlet 511A and a first outlet 512A, mutually spaced apart. The second part 520 comprises a first chamber 521A arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion 522 arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 521A. The fluidic device 50 is arrangeable in a first configuration, wherein the first part 510 is fluidically isolated from the first chamber 521A. The fluidic device 50 is arrangeable in a second configuration, wherein the first inlet 511A and the first outlet 512A are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 521A, whereby increasing a first pressure P1 in the first chamber 521A via the first inlet 511A urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 512A. In this example, the fluidic device 50 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 511A and the first outlet 512A perforating through the first wall portion 522 into the first chamber 521A.

(88) In this example, the first part 510 comprises six inlets 511 (511A-511F) and six outlets 512 (512A-512F) corresponding with six chambers 521 (521A-521F) in the corresponding second part 520. The five outlets 511A-511E are fluidically coupled to the five inlets 512B-512F via conduits 519 (519A-519E) respectively.

(89) In the second configuration, increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 521A via the first inlet 511A urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 512A. Hence, by increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 521A via the first inlet 511, for example by introducing a gas or a liquid into the first chamber 521A through the first inlet 511A, at least the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 is urged (i.e. driven or pumped) through the first outlet 512A in turn, as described above. Furthermore, since the five outlets 511A-511E are fluidically coupled to the five inlets 512B-512F via conduits 519 (519A-519E) respectively, increasing the first pressure P1 in the first chamber 521A and thereby urging at least the part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 512A, respective pressures P2-P6 in the daisy-chained chambers 521B-521F are in turn increased as fluids are urged therebetween.

(90) In this example, the chamber 521A has a boustrophedonic (i.e. a zig-zag, alternately left to right then right to left, a serpentine) shape, the chamber 521B has a boustrophedonic shape, the chamber 521C has a boustrophedonic shape, the chamber 521D has a cigar shape, the chamber 521D has a cigar shape, the chamber 521E has a drum shape.

(91) In this example, the first part 510 comprises five (5) standard female ¼″-28 connectors C1-C5.

(92) FIG. 10 schematically depicts the first part 510 of the fluidic device 50 of FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, in more detail. Particularly, FIG. 10 is a plan view of the first part 510, showing locations of the inlets 511 and the outlets 512.

(93) In this example, respective locations of the inlets 511 and the outlets 512 correspond with respective locations of six chambers 521 in the corresponding second part 520. In this example, the respective locations of the inlets 511 and the outlets 512 are predetermined accurately and precisely, according to manufacture of the first part 510. In this way, respective locations of perforation of the corresponding chambers in the second part 520 may be similarly determined accurately and precisely, thereby improving the accuracy and/or the precision of the amount of the fluid expelled from the chambers.

(94) FIG. 11 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment, in more detail. Particularly, FIG. 11 shows cross-sectional views of five (5) alternative first inlets 111A-111E and/or first outlets 112A-112E of the first part of the fluidic device.

(95) The first inlet 111A comprises a perforation member 115A, particularly a conical needle having an axial first inlet passageway 113A therethrough and an open tip, arranged to perforate through the first wall portion. The first inlet 111A is arranged to extend away from a planar surface of the first part. The first inlet 111A has a length L1 of 1.5 mm.

(96) The first inlet 111B comprises a perforation member 115B, particularly a conical needle, having and an open tip and a tip portion of a relatively larger cone angle, having an axial first inlet passageway 113B therethrough, arranged to perforate through the first wall portion. The first inlet 111B is arranged to extend away from a planar surface of the first part. The first inlet 111B has a length L1 of 1.5 mm.

(97) The first inlet 111C comprises a perforation member 115C, particularly a single bevel needle having an axial first inlet passageway 113C therethrough and an open tip, arranged to perforate through the first wall portion. The first inlet 111C is arranged to extend away from a planar surface of the first part. The first inlet 111C has a length L1 of 1.5 mm.

(98) The first inlet 111D comprises a perforation member 115D, particularly a single bevel needle having a first inlet passageway 113D therethrough and a closed tip, wherein the first inlet passageway exits via a side wall of the needle, arranged to perforate through the first wall portion. The first inlet 111D is arranged to extend away from a planar surface of the first part. The first inlet 111D has a length L4 of 1.5 mm.

(99) The first inlet 111E comprises a perforation member 115E, particularly a conical needle having an axial first inlet passageway 113E therethrough and an open tip, wherein a base of the needle comprise a groove arranged to receive a sealing member, arranged to perforate through the first wall portion. The first inlet 111E is arranged to extend away from a planar surface of the first part. The first inlet 111E has a length L5 of 1.5 mm.

(100) FIG. 12 schematically depicts a first part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment, in more detail. Particularly, FIG. 12 shows cross-sectional views of four (4) alternative sealing members 119A-119D for the inlet and/or the outlet of the first part of the fluidic device, for example for the first inlet 111E described above.

(101) The sealing member 119A is an O-ring. The sealing member 119B is a flat gasket. The sealing member 119C is a pierceable gasket sheet. The sealing member 119D is a layer provided on the first wall portion, which acts as a septa membrane.

(102) FIGS. 13A and 13B schematically depict moving the fluidic device 10 of FIGS. 1 to 4 from the first configuration to the second configuration, respectively. In this example, the first inlet 111A is as described with respect to FIG. 11. The fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 111A perforating through the first wall portion 122 into the first chamber 121. In this example, the first wall portion 122 is arranged to fluidically seal around the first inlet 111A.

(103) FIGS. 14A and 14B schematically depict moving the fluidic device 10 of FIGS. 1 to 4 from the first configuration to the second configuration, respectively. In this example, the first inlet 111A is as described above with respect to FIG. 11. In this example, the fluidic device 10 comprises the sealing member 119A, as described with respect to FIG. 12. The fluidic device 10 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 111A perforating through the first wall portion 122 into the first chamber 121. In this example, the sealing member 119A is arranged around the first inlet 111A to provide a fluidic seal between the first wall portion 122 and the first inlet 111A, by compression of the sealing member 119A as shown in FIG. 14B.

(104) FIG. 15 schematically depicts a fluidic device 70 in a first configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, FIG. 15 shows a photograph of the fluidic device 70.

(105) In more detail, the fluidic device 70 comprises the first part 710 and the second part 720. The first part 710 comprises a first inlet 711A and a first outlet 712A, mutually spaced apart. The second part 720 comprises a first chamber 721A arranged to contain a predetermined first amount A1 of a first fluid F1 therein and a first wall portion 722A arranged to contain, at least in part, the first fluid F1 in the first chamber 722A. The fluidic device 70 is arrangeable in a first configuration, wherein the first part 710 is fluidically isolated from the first chamber 721A. The fluidic device 70 is arrangeable in a second configuration, wherein the first inlet 711A and the first outlet 712A are fluidically coupled via the first chamber 721A, whereby increasing a first pressure P1 in the first chamber 721A via the first inlet 711A urges at least a part of the predetermined first amount A1 of the first fluid F1 through the first outlet 712A. The fluidic device 70 is arranged to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by the first inlet 711A and the first outlet 712A perforating through the first wall portion 722A into the first chamber 721A.

(106) In this example, the second part 720 comprises five (5) chambers 721A-721E containing respectively predetermined amounts A1-A5 of fluids F1-F5 therein and wall portions 722A-722E (not shown) arranged to contain, at least in part, the fluid F1-F5 in the respective chambers 720A-720E. In this example, the first part 710 comprises five (5) inlets 711A-711E and five outlets 712A-712E (not all shown), corresponding to the five (5) chambers 721A-721E.

(107) FIG. 16 schematically depicts a method of manufacturing a second part of a fluidic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

(108) At S1601, a sheet of a material comprising a polymeric composition comprising a thermoplastic polymer is provided.

(109) At S1602, the sheet is thermoformed.

(110) At S1603, a first chamber of the second part is provided by thermoforming.

(111) At S1604, a predetermined first amount of a first fluid is dispensed into the first chamber.

(112) At S1605, a first wall portion is sealed across the first chamber.

(113) FIG. 17 schematically depicts a microfluidic device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The microfluidic device 100 comprises a microfluidic chamber (also known as a channel) 20, having an inlet 30, and arranged to receive a liquid (not shown) therein. In use, the microfluidic device 100 is arranged to control translation through the liquid of a body (not shown) introduced therein via the inlet 30, wherein the translation of the body is due to a potential field G acting on the body. In use, the controlled translation of the body mixes the liquid.

(114) The microfluidic chamber 20 has a volume of 300 μl and a width of 2000 μm. The microfluidic chamber 20 is substantially tubular and has an aspect ratio of about 3. An internal cross-section of the microfluidic chamber 20 is substantially rectangular, having straight sides and radiused internal corners between the sides. The internal cross-section of the microfluidic chamber 20 is non-constant along a length L of the microfluidic chamber 20. The shape of the internal cross-section of the microfluidic chamber 20 is substantially constant along the length L of the microfluidic chamber 20 while a size of the internal cross-section of the microfluidic chamber is non-constant along the length L of the microfluidic chamber 20. The size of the internal cross-section of the microfluidic chamber 20 successively increases and then decreases along the length L of the microfluidic chamber 20. This particular shape allows for the effective use of bubbles for the mixing and at the same time the complete emptying of the liquid contained within the chamber with a slug-flow, generated at airflow rates compatible with microfluidic devices.

(115) The microfluidic chamber 20 comprises a wall 40 arranged to, in part, control translation through the liquid of the body, in use. The wall 40 comprises an upper or first wall portion 42 opposed to a lower or second wall portion 44. The first wall portion 42 is arranged to, in part, control translation through the liquid of the body, in use. The first wall portion 42 is arranged transversally with respect to the gravitational potential field G and thereby inhibits or hinders ascension of the body through the liquid. The first wall portion 42 is inclined or tilted with respect to the second side wall portion 44 by an angle of inclination a in a range 4° to 5°. The wall 40 is arranged boustrophedonically (i.e. in a zig-zag manner, alternately left to right then right to left). The boustrophedonic arrangement of the wall 40 provides six (6) relatively longer portions 26 (26a-26f) of the microfluidic chamber 20 arranged transversally to and alternately with five (5) relatively shorter portions 28 (28a-28e) of the microfluidic chamber. The wall 40 is arranged to reduce or avoid dead volumes, for example, by reducing or eliminating internal corners or recesses. An inner surface of the wall 40 is smooth, thereby facilitating flow by reducing drag.

(116) The inlet 30 is arranged to control introduction of the body into the liquid. The inlet 30 is arranged to form, create or generate the body. The inlet 30 comprises a gas nozzle 32 arranged to generate a gas bubble. A ratio of a cross-sectional area of the gas nozzle 32 to a cross-sectional area of the microfluidic chamber 20 proximal the inlet 30 is about 1:5.

(117) The microfluidic device 100 comprises an outlet 50. The inlet 30 is arranged proximal one end 22 of the microfluidic chamber 20 and the outlet 50 is arranged proximal an opposed end 24 of the microfluidic chamber 20. The inlet 30 and the outlet 50 each comprise a passageway through the wall 40 of the microfluidic chamber 20. The wall 40 comprises no other passageways therethrough.

(118) The microfluidic device 100 is manufactured from poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA).

(119) FIG. 18 schematically depicts another microfluidic device 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The microfluidic device 200 comprises two (2) (i.e. a plurality) of microfluidic chambers 20 (20a-20b), generally as described above with respect to the microfluidic device 100. Like reference signs denote like features, the reference signs suffixed consistently with the respective microfluidic chambers 20 (20a-20b).

(120) The microfluidic device 200 comprises the first microfluidic chamber 20a and the second microfluidic chamber 20b, wherein the outlet 50a of the first microfluidic chamber 20a is fluidically coupled to the inlet 30b of the second microfluidic chamber 20b via a syphon 60.

(121) FIG. 19 schematically depicts schematically depicts a microfluidic cartridge 3000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The microfluidic cartridge 1000 comprises three (3) (i.e. a plurality) of fluidically-coupled microfluidic devices 300 (300a-300c). The first microfluidic device 300a provides a lyse buffer chamber (300 μl max), the second microfluidic device 300a provides a chaotropic agent chamber (1000 μl max) and the third microfluidic device 300c provides a mixing structure. The microfluidic cartridge 1000 also comprises a cartridge inlet (Blood Plasma Separation Chip connector) 1001, a filter (RBC filter zone) 1002, a first reservoir (Proteinase K chamber, 100 μl max) 1003, an adsorption membrane (nucleic acids adsorption membrane) 1007, a second reservoir 1008 (washing buffer chamber, 700 μl max), a third reservoir (drying air channel) 1009, a fourth reservoir (elution buffer chamber, 65 μl max) 1010, three (3) valves V1-V3 and a cartridge outlet (not shown). These components of the microfluidic cartridge 1000 are fluidically coupled so as to provide a fluid pathway between the cartridge inlet 1001 and the cartridge outlet via one or more of these components.

(122) FIG. 20 schematically depicts a microfluidic system 4000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The microfluidic system 4000 comprises an apparatus 4400 arranged to control the microfluidic cartridge 3000 and the microfluidic cartridge 3000. The apparatus 4400 comprises a controller 4500, a syringe pump 4600, a valve 4700 and a heater 4800. The controller 4500 is arranged to control the syringe pump 4600, the valve 4700 and the heater 4800. The controller 4400 is arranged to control a flow rate of the liquid and a gas into and/or through the microfluidic cartridge 3000.

(123) FIG. 21 schematically depicts a process of operating the microfluidic system of FIG. 20.

(124) At S901, inlet sample enters the cartridge with a flow rate of 10 ml/hr and it is processed through the blood plasma separation (BPS) microfluidic structures. The stream is divided, by hydrodynamic separation, in a red blood cells enriched stream and a virtually cell free plasma stream. RBC enriched stream goes to waste while the plasma stream goes on to the downprocessing steps within the automated cartridge.

(125) At S902, a filter eliminates the residual red and white blood cells that might escape the hydraulic separation, avoiding PCR inhibition and genomic contamination of the sample.

(126) At S903, purified plasma mixes with Proteinase K in the first chamber. The air present within the channels, displaced by the fluid, creates bubbles that rise to the free surface and are pushed to the next chamber. Proteinase K digests proteins, such as nuclease, that would degrade the nucleic acids in the sample.

(127) At S904, as the syringe pump pushes fresh sample through the BPS, the fluid which filled chamber 3 is pushed to the next chamber where mixes with the lyse buffer. In this step nucleic acids are released from microvesicles and from protein complexes they are bound to.

(128) At S905, the sample finally mixes with the chaotropic agent. This step changes the stability of the solution and creates the conditions for the bonding of the nucleic acids on the silica membrane.

(129) At S906, once the whole inlet sample is processed, air is pushed inside the cartridge at 100 ml/hr through a chamber filled with chaotropic agent and directly connected to the plasma lines, straight after the filtering zone. The bubble stream that is produced enhances mixing of sample and reagents. The presence of chaotropic agent in the first and last chamber ensure that adsorption conditions are fulfilled during the whole extraction.

(130) At S908, mixing structures delay the exit of fluid and enhance sample uniformity. These structures include enlargements and constrictions along the section, to create velocity gradients and whirls in the fluid, plus a backmixing effect due to the different time fillets of fluid will employ to cross them.

(131) At S908, increasing the air flow rate to 550 ml/hr produces larger bubbles and successfully pushes the entirety of the fluid through the adsorption membrane. After nucleic acids adsorption the sample leaves the cartridge through a waste channel.

(132) At S909, turning valves (v) switches fluidic connections within the cartridge. Air can now be used to push a washing buffer through the membrane. Air flow rate ranges from 100 to 550 ml/hr to ensure the thorough emptying of the reagent chamber. This process removes proteins and other impurities that can be adsorbed on the membrane and that would contaminate the sample and inhibit amplification.

(133) At S910, the membrane is then dried for 5 minutes through air flow with alternate direction at 550 ml/hr. To ease the drying, the area above the membrane is heated to 50° C. by mean of an electric heater and thermal controller. The heater is integrated in the electric module that controls the stepper motors that turns the valves and the syringe pumps. An effective drying removes all the chaotropic agent, allowing for a more effective sample elution.

(134) At S911, after drying, valves are turned again, switching the fluidic path within the cartridge. An air flow of 10 ml/hr ensures the slow and effective elution of the nucleic acids from the membrane in 65 ml of elution buffer. The cfNAs elution is collected in a fresh tube through a clean channel specifically opened with the valves rotation. The whole protocol takes about 40 minutes when starting from 5 ml of whole blood and does not require trained staff to assist the automated platform during the extraction. In contrast, conventional protocols take about 1.5-2 hours and may require trained staff.

(135) Although a preferred embodiment has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

(136) In summary, the invention provides a fluidic device that improves control of an amount of fluid expelled therefrom, for example that improves accuracy and/or a precision of the amount of the fluid expelled therefrom. In this way, the fluidic device is suitable for use with LOC devices for POC applications.

(137) Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

(138) All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

(139) Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

(140) The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.