DE102015205906A1 - Storage unit, method for producing a storage unit and method for releasing a stored in a storage unit fluid - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a storage unit (100) for storing a fluid (120), wherein the storage unit (100) has a housing unit (107) having a cavity (115) for receiving the fluid (120). Furthermore, the storage unit (100) comprises a closure membrane (125) which is formed and / or arranged to include a fluid (120) in the cavity (115) in a fluid-tight manner in the cavity (115). Also, the storage unit (100) includes an inlet opening (130) in a wall of the housing unit (107) for introducing a delivery fluid (135) and applying a pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure through the delivery fluid (135) to the closure membrane (125) the closure membrane (125) fluidly separates the inlet opening (130) from the cavity (115). Finally, the storage unit (100) comprises an opening element (148) for opening the closure membrane (125) upon loading the closure membrane (125) with the pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure, wherein the opening element (148) on a side opposite the inlet opening (130) the closure membrane (125) is arranged.

Description

State of the art

The invention is based on a storage unit, a method for producing a storage unit and a method for releasing a stored in a storage unit fluid according to the class of the independent claims. The subject of the present invention is also computer program.

In many cases, modern microfluidic devices are now used for a variety of purposes, in which liquids must be provided or transported on a chip. Such microfluidic devices can be used, for example, in so-called lab-on-a-chip systems (LOCs), in which the entire functionality of a macroscopic laboratory is accommodated on, for example, a credit card-sized plastic substrate and miniaturizes complex biological, diagnostic, chemical or physical processes can expire.

In many cases, LOC systems consist of polymer-based multi-layer structures. This structure may consist of two polymer substrates containing cavities in the form of chambers and channels. Between the polymer substrates is a flexible polymer membrane, which can be deflected by means of different pneumatic pressure levels in the adjacent cavities. Outside the cavities, the membrane is firmly bonded to the adjacent polymer substrates (lid and substrate). For example, the flexible membrane can spread by the application of compressed air in the whole chamber and thus displace liquids, for example. This allows liquids to be transported from one chamber to the other via channels on a LOC system, and reservoirs or chambers to be emptied almost completely. With the same principle, pneumatically controlled diaphragm valves can be opened or closed. In EP 1 896 180 B1 describes a microfluidic system in which flexible membranes are used to displace liquids within a lab-on-a-chip system. In order to run molecular diagnostic processes on a LOC system, a wide variety of liquids (water, salt solutions, detergents) are required. In order to avoid having to manually guide the chip from the outside during processing, it is advantageous to store it directly on the chip (on-chip).

Disclosure of the invention

Against this background, a storage unit, a method for producing such a storage unit, a method for releasing a fluid stored in a storage unit and a device using this method, and finally a corresponding computer program according to the main claims are presented with the approach presented here. The measures listed in the dependent claims advantageous refinements and improvements of the independent claim device are possible.

• – eine Gehäuseeinheit, die eine Kavität zum Aufnehmen des Fluids aufweist;
• – eine Verschlussmembran, die ausgebildet und/oder angeordnet ist, um ein Fluid in der Kavität fluiddicht in der Kavität einzuschließen;
• – eine Einlassöffnung in einer Wand der Gehäuseeinheit zum Einleiten eines Förderfluids und Ausüben eines pneumatischen und/oder hydraulischen Drucks durch das Förderfluid auf die Verschlussmembran, wobei die Verschlussmembran die Einlassöffnung fluidisch von der Kavität trennt; und
• – ein Öffnungselement zum Öffnen der Verschlussmembran bei Beaufschlagung der Verschlussmembran mit dem pneumatischen und/oder hydraulischen Druck, wobei das Öffnungselement auf einer der Einlassöffnung gegenüberliegenden Seite der Verschlussmembran angeordnet ist.

The approach presented here creates a storage unit for storing a fluid in an analysis system, wherein the storage unit has the following features:

• - A housing unit having a cavity for receiving the fluid;
• A closure membrane which is formed and / or arranged to fluidly close a fluid in the cavity in the cavity;
• An inlet opening in a wall of the housing unit for introducing a delivery fluid and applying a pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure through the delivery fluid to the closure membrane, the closure membrane fluidly separating the inlet port from the cavity; and
• - An opening element for opening the closure membrane upon exposure of the closure membrane with the pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure, wherein the opening element is arranged on a side opposite the inlet opening side of the closure membrane.

For example, a fluid can be understood to mean a liquid such as aqueous solutions, saline solutions, detergents, alcohol or an acid required for a reaction in the analytical system. The fluid should be able to be released, for example, controllable at a certain time. The housing unit may be, for example, a plastic element (for example thermoplastics such as PC, COP, COC, PP, PE, PET, ABS). The housing unit is composed for example of several parts or composable. A cavity may, for example, be understood to mean a cavity or a recess in the housing unit which is provided for receiving the fluid. A closure membrane may, for example, be understood to mean a film (for example a barrier film, sealing film or polymer composite film) which encloses a fluid stored in the cavity in a fluid-tight manner. An inlet opening may be understood to mean an opening in the wall through which a (further) fluid in the form of the delivery fluid can be introduced into the interior of the storage unit. Under such a conveying fluid, for example, a gas, such as preferably (compressed) air or a liquid be initiated. An opening element can be understood to mean predominantly a projection which is provided for opening or tearing the closure membrane when the closure membrane is pressed directly or indirectly onto this projection under the action of the conveying fluid. For this purpose, the projection may advantageously have points or edges to ensure a defined rupture of the closure membrane under certain conditions.

The present approach is based on the recognition that the fluid in the cavity can be released very precisely and precisely at a certain time when a delivery fluid is introduced through the inlet opening in the wall of the housing unit. In this case, the mechanical coupling of the elements of the storage unit causes the closure membrane to be torn in a timely manner and the fluid stored in the cavity to be released. The approach presented here has the advantage that the very precise control of a delivery fluid allows the desired amount of fluid to be released from the cavity in a very simple and precise manner and is then available for the reaction in the analysis system. This in turn makes it possible to effect a desired reaction with specific reaction parameters precisely and controllably, so that a low probability of failure of the analysis system is to be feared. At the same time, the storage unit presented here can be realized very technically very simply and thus cost-effectively. In addition, reagents can be stored long-term stable on the LOC system.

An embodiment of the approach presented here is expedient in which the opening element has a structure that tapers in the direction of the closure membrane, in particular wherein the opening element has a separating section for separating the closure membrane on an opposite side from the closure membrane. Such an embodiment of the approach presented here offers the advantage of a precise opening of the closure membrane upon introduction of a certain volume of the delivery fluid through the inlet opening.

According to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, the opening element may be at least partially made of the material of the housing unit, in particular in one piece with a part of the housing unit and / or the opening element at least partially comprise a metal. Such an embodiment of the approach presented here offers the advantage of a technically very simple production of the opening element at the same time for the safety of the desired function of this opening element.

The closure membrane can be opened particularly simply and precisely if, according to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, the opening element has a line-shaped cutting edge in an area opposite the closure membrane.

Also conceivable is an embodiment of the approach presented here in which the opening element is designed as a hollow needle, in particular in order to enable contact of the delivery fluid with a fluid stored in the cavity when the storage device is used when the closure membrane is opened. Such an embodiment of the approach presented here offers the possibility of particularly good guidance of the delivery fluid and thus advantageous expelling of the fluid from the cavity.

Also, according to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, the opening element may extend from a substantially planar bottom area in the direction of the closure membrane. A flat bottom region may, for example, be understood to mean a region of the bottom of the cavity in which the bottom of the cavity or recess has a substantially equal depth with respect to an end of the opening element opposite the closure membrane on opposite sides of the opening element. For example, the depth of the cavity or recess should not deviate by more than 10% on both opposite sides of the opening element.

Also, according to a further embodiment, the opening element form an edge of the cavity. This allows a very simple and trouble-free discharge of the fluid from the cavity.

The fluid stored in the cavity can be released in a particularly simple manner if, according to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, the closure membrane is prestressed by the opening element.

A storage unit can be produced particularly technically particularly simply if, according to one embodiment of the approach presented here, the housing unit has a fluid receiving part unit and a lid unit, wherein the fluid receiving unit comprises the cavity which can be closed and / or closed with the closing membrane and wherein the lid unit has the inlet opening. In this case, the fluid receiving subunit and the lid unit can each form a component of the housing unit, which are assembled in a final manufacturing step.

Particularly favorable is an embodiment of the approach presented here, in which a pressure membrane is provided, which is arranged between the inlet opening and the closure membrane, and which is designed tear-resistant with respect to the closure membrane. In this case, the pressure membrane can be designed to withstand a pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure through the delivery fluid to be supplied via the inlet opening. Under such a pressure membrane, a film (for example, from a thermoplastic elastomer such as TPU, TPS, TPV ...) are understood, which is mechanically very resilient and usually will not burst by an expected pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure by the conveying fluid. Such an embodiment offers the advantage of being able to ensure separation between the delivery fluid and the fluid upon release of the fluid from the cavity. As a result, contamination of the fluid is avoided. At the same time a complete expulsion of the entire volume of the fluid in the cavity can be ensured with technically simple means. In this case, the pressure membrane for the fluid stored or to be stored in the cavity can be designed to be fluid-tight.

Particularly reliably, the rupture or rupture of the pressure membrane can be prevented at the opening element, according to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, the pressure membrane is attached to a mounting portion on the housing unit, wherein at least two arranged on opposite sides of the mounting portion sections of the pressure membrane at an influx of the conveying fluid are movable through the inlet opening in the direction of the closing membrane.

Very safely and optionally under the action of gravity, the fluid can be discharged out of the cavity if, according to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, an outlet opening is provided for releasing the fluid storable or stored in the cavity, the outlet opening being in an area of attachment of the Shutter membrane is provided on a part of the housing unit.

• – Einfüllen des Fluids in die Kavität der Komponente der Gehäuseeinheit;
• – Fluiddichtes Verschließen der Kavität in der Komponente der Gehäuseeinheit mit der Verschlussmembran; und
• – Zusammenfügen der Komponenten der Gehäuseeinheit, um die Bevorratungseinheit herzustellen.

Another advantage of an embodiment of the approach presented here as a method for producing a storage unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein components of the housing unit are provided for the method, wherein at least one component of the housing unit, the cavity and the opening element and a component of the housing unit, the inlet opening comprising, the method comprising the following steps;

• - filling the fluid into the cavity of the component of the housing unit;
• - Fluid-tight closing of the cavity in the component of the housing unit with the closure membrane; and
• - Assemble the components of the housing unit to produce the storage unit.

By means of such a method for producing the storage unit, this storage unit can be produced very inexpensively, whereby nevertheless a precise function of this storage unit, ie a controllable release of the fluid stored in the storage unit, becomes possible.

• – Einleiten eines Förderfluids in die Einlassöffnung, um die Verschlussmembran durch pneumatischen und/oder hydraulischen Druck an das Öffnungselement zu drücken und hierdurch die Verschlussmembran zu öffnen, um das Fluid n der Kavität freizusetzen.

According to a further embodiment of the approach presented here, a method for releasing a fluid stored in a provided storage unit according to an embodiment presented here can also be provided, the method comprising the following step:

• Introducing a delivery fluid into the inlet port to force the closure membrane to the port member by pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure and thereby open the obturator diaphragm to release the fluid n of the cavity.

Such an embodiment of the approach proposed here also offers the advantage of a particularly precise and controllable release of the fluid in the storage unit.

According to a particular embodiment of the approach presented here, a step of sucking off the fluid can take place through an outlet channel of the storage unit.

These methods can be implemented, for example, in software or hardware or in a mixed form of software and hardware, for example in a control unit.

The approach presented here also creates a device that is designed to perform the steps of a variant of a method presented here in appropriate facilities to drive or implement. Also by this embodiment of the invention in the form of a device, the object underlying the invention can be solved quickly and efficiently.

In the present case, a device can be understood as meaning an electrical device which processes sensor signals and outputs control and / or data signals in dependence thereon. The device may have an interface, which may be formed in hardware and / or software. In a hardware training, the For example, interfaces may be part of a so-called system ASIC that incorporates various functions of the device. However, it is also possible that the interfaces are their own integrated circuits or at least partially consist of discrete components. In a software training, the interfaces may be software modules that are present, for example, on a microcontroller in addition to other software modules.

Also of advantage is a computer program product or computer program with program code which can be stored on a machine-readable carrier or storage medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk memory or an optical memory and for carrying out, implementing and / or controlling the steps of the method according to one of the embodiments described above is used, especially when the program product or program is executed on a computer or a device.

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. It shows:

1A -C cross sectional views through a first embodiment of a storage unit;

2A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

3A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

4A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

5A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

6A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

6D a top view of the embodiment of a storage unit of the 6A -C;

7A -C cross sectional views through another embodiment of a storage unit;

8A Fig. 1 shows cross-sectional views of different embodiments of opening elements for use in an embodiment of a storage unit;

9A -E-plan views of different embodiments of opening elements for use in an embodiment of a storage unit;

10 - 11 Flowcharts of methods according to embodiments of the approach presented here; and

12 - 13 Block diagrams of devices according to embodiments of the approach presented here.

In the following description of favorable embodiments of the present invention, the same or similar reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various figures and similar acting, with a repeated description of these elements is omitted.

1A shows a cross-sectional view through a first embodiment of a storage unit 100 according to the approach presented here in an idle state. This consists of a first polymer substrate 105 , here as a cover element of a housing unit 107 acts and which is in contact with a second polymer substrate 110 , which serves as a fluid receiving element of the housing unit 107 acts. The second polymer substrate 110 contains a cavity 115 , in which a liquid (for example an alcohol) as a fluid 120 for a reaction to be carried out in the 1A upstream of the analysis unit, not shown. The cavity 115 is (fluid-tight) sealed by a sealing film as a sealing membrane 125 which the cavity 115 overlaps and in the overlap area 127 with the first polymer substrate 105 or the second polymer substrate 110 is fluidly connected tightly. In the first polymer substrate 105 is still a microfluidic access as an inlet opening 130 , which allows a pneumatic (or hydraulic) overpressure of a delivery fluid 135 (Such as air) to the cavity 115 opposite surface of the sealing film or closure membrane 125 to apply. One between the sealing membrane 125 and the lid member 105 located gap 140 becomes laterally in the form of an outlet channel 145 dissipated, in which a in the 1A not shown fluidic network, for example, the analysis device can connect, which is the upstream liquid 120 appropriately processed further. The storage unit 100 may be an integral part of the analysis unit, for example.

Inside the cavity 115 there is also an opening element 148 , a holding element 150 with a cutting element 155 having, wherein the cutting element 155 suitable for this, the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 under mechanical stress to cut or perforate. The cutting element 155 can as an opening element 148 for example, in one piece with the retaining element 150 or even in one piece with the holding element 150 and the second polymer substrate 110 be formed and punctiform or linear act. The cutting element 155 can be made of the same material as the retaining element 150 exist, for. As a polymer, or for example be designed in the form of a metal cutting edge.

To the upstream liquid 125 over the outlet channel 145 Provide is about access 130 a pneumatic overpressure is applied, which drives the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 a force in the direction of the cavity 115 experiences. This results in particular in the area of the bearing surface of the cutting element 155 of the opening element 148 to tensions starting from a certain pneumatic pressure of the conveying fluid 135 become so strong that the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 is severed. As a result, the sealing film becomes 125 in the direction of the (substantially flat) floor 160 the cavity 115 into the cavity 115 displaced and the fluid or more generally the fluid 120 will be released.

1B shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the storage unit 100 in a state at a first time t ₁ , in which the pneumatic overpressure of the conveying fluid 135 was increased so much that the sealing membrane 125 is torn and in the cavity 115 was pressed. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to utilize the force of gravity such that the liquid or the fluid 125 above the outlet channel 145 collects. By maintaining the pneumatic pressure of the delivery fluid 135 becomes the liquid or the fluid 120 through the outlet channel 145 and provided to a subsequent microfluidic network in the analysis unit (not shown). In addition, it is possible to remove the pressure after opening the closure membrane again. The emptying of the liquid can then be either gravity driven or actively sucked by the LOC system.

10 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the storage unit 100 in a state at a second time t ₂ after the first time t ₁ , in which the pneumatic overpressure of the conveying fluid 135 as far as was maintained, that the occlusive membrane 125 completely on the bottom of the cavity 115 is depressed and the fluid 120 through the outlet channel or the outlet opening 145 can drain away.

An important objective of the approach presented here can be seen in the fact that a pneumatic-mechanical provision of liquid reagents for LoC systems is possible in order to store liquid reagents for LoC applications in a long-term stable manner and to provide them as needed while at the same time ensuring an efficient emptying of the reservoirs.

The approach presented here in polymer-based, microfluidic LoC systems (eg credit card-sized LoC cartridges) enables long-term stable storage and reliable provision of liquid reagents. The liquid, ie in the present case the fluid 120 , is in a reservoir, ie, in the present case, the cavity 115 , stored and with a barrier film as a sealing membrane 125 sealed. At the barrier film 125 it is, for example, a polymer composite film consisting of a sealing layer (polypropylene, polyethylene, hot melt adhesive, ...) and an aluminum layer. Optionally, the aluminum layer is additionally provided with a protective layer of PET or lacquer. In the reservoir 115 There are mechanical stops such as the opening element 148 , which is designed for example as a tip or hollow needle, which by a pneumatic deflection of the barrier film 125 or flexible membrane, which is designed here as a pressure membrane, to a local voltage increase of the barrier film 125 to lead. This leads to a breaking of the barrier film when a defined pneumatic pressure is reached 125 and after elimination of the pneumatic pressure to release the fluid 120 , This can be actively sucked in addition to a possible gravity discharge for further processing in an analysis unit. This suction can also be done without a flexible membrane. The deflection of the barrier film 125 by pneumatic pressure through the conveying fluid 135 against mechanical stops, tips or hollow needles as opening elements 148 in the reservoir 115 for stress exaggeration of the barrier film 125 and thus resulting reagent release represent a major aspect of the approach presented here.

• – Es braucht keine vorangehende Strukturierung der Barrierefolie 125 zur Erzeugung einer Sollbruchstelle erfolgen. Dies führt zu einer drastischen Vereinfachung des Fertigungsprozesses und damit zu einer Reduktion der Herstellkosten.
• – Auf eine Bereitstellungskammer kann verzichtet werden, was zu einer deutlichen Flächenreduktion führt. Hierdurch werden die Herstell-, Lager- und Transportkosten einer Kartusche verringert.
• – Alle Elemente, die zum Aufbrechen der Barrierefolie 125 dienen sollen, wie beispielsweise Spitzen, Hohlnadeln oder Zacken können direkt auf dem Chip bzw. einer entsprechend ausgestalteten Gehäuseeinheit 107 oder Komponenten davon wie der Deckeleinheit 105 und oder der Fluidaufnahmeeinheit 110, durch Spritzguss erfolgen. Auch hier ist kein zusätzlicher Prozessschritt notwendig bei der Einbringung einer Sollbruchstelle.
• – Die Vorlagerung der Flüssigreagenzien 120 kann direkt auf dem Chip also der Bevorratungsvorrichtung 100 erfolgen, die beispielsweise integraler Bestandteil der Analyseeinheit sein kann. Es sind keine separaten Behältnisse (Blister, Stickpacks) erforderlich. Hierdurch werden die Produktionskosten deutlich gesenkt.
• – Auf einen externen mechanischen beweglichen Aktuator (z. B. Stempel) zum Entleeren der Flüssigkeit 120 kann verzichtet werden, was Kontaminationsrisiken von außen und die Komplexität der externen Steuereinheit reduziert. Hierdurch werden Kosten gesenkt und eine größere Sicherheit im Betrieb erreicht.

The approach presented here offers several advantages:

• - It needs no previous structuring of the barrier film 125 to produce a predetermined breaking point. This leads to a drastic simplification of the manufacturing process and thus to a reduction in manufacturing costs.
• - Can be dispensed with a preparation chamber, resulting in a significant reduction in area. As a result, the manufacturing, storage and transport costs of a cartridge are reduced.
• - All elements necessary for breaking up the barrier film 125 serve, such as tips, hollow needles or serrations can directly on the chip or a housing unit designed accordingly 107 or components thereof, such as the lid unit 105 and or the fluid receiving unit 110 , done by injection molding. Again, no additional process step is necessary in the introduction of a predetermined breaking point.
• - The pre-storage of the liquid reagents 120 can be directly on the chip so the stocking device 100 take place, which may for example be an integral part of the analysis unit. There are no separate containers (blisters, stickpacks) required. As a result, the production costs are significantly reduced.
• - On an external mechanical moving actuator (eg stamp) for emptying the liquid 120 can be dispensed with, which reduces the risk of contamination from the outside and the complexity of the external control unit. As a result, costs are reduced and greater safety in operation achieved.

2A shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a resting state. In this embodiment is compared to the in the 1A to 1C illustrated embodiment additionally an elastic polymer membrane as a pressure (transmission) membrane 200 used, which between the first polymer substrate 105 and the second polymer substrate 110 is arranged so that the pneumatic pressure of the access or inlet port 130 introduced conveying fluid 135 not directly on the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 acts, but initially only on the polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 , The polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 is in the area opposite the cavity 115 not with the first polymer substrate 105 connected. Due to the elasticity of the polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 the acting force is applied directly to the sealing foil or sealing membrane 125 Transfer this until the cutting element 155 of the opening element 148 is severed. Subsequently, the polymer membrane or pressure membrane expands 200 into the cavity 115 out (see 2 B indicating the condition at a first time after the activation of the storage unit 100 represents), so that the liquid therein or the fluid 120 in the outlet channel 145 is displaced (see 2C indicating the state at a second time following the activation of the storage unit at a second time following the first time 100 reproduces). This embodiment has the particular advantage that the process of displacing the liquid or fluid 120 self-limiting in the sense that the over the entrance or the inlet opening 130 provided pneumatic pressure of the conveying fluid 135 does not need to be taken to a progression of the liquid or the fluid 120 to stop in the subsequent microfluidic network of the analysis unit, not shown in the figures. This makes it possible to generate a well-defined initial state ("upstream liquid is ready") for subsequent process steps after a certain waiting time.

As an alternative to the preceding and below described embodiments, the pneumatic pressure of the conveying fluid 135 via access or the inlet opening 130 after opening the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 be withdrawn and the liquid 120 in the cavity 115 For example, be emptied by a downstream not shown in the figures microfluidic pump. For this purpose, it is particularly advantageous to provide an additional venting channel between the first substrate 105 (Cover member) and the second substrate 110 (Fluid receiving element) of the housing unit 107 provided.

The subfigures of the 3 each show a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a state of rest ( 3A ), a state at a first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 3B ) and a state at a second time following the first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 3C ). In this embodiment is compared to the in the 2A to 2C illustrated embodiment, the polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 not over the entire area opposite the cavity 115 free, but above the cutting element 155 of the opening element 148 with the first polymer substrate 105 (Cover element) in a fixing section 300 connected. Goes over the access or the inlet opening 130 a pneumatic overpressure of the conveying fluid 135 provided, the contact between polymer membrane or pressure membrane remains 200 and the first polymer substrate 105 exist while the remaining area of the pressure membrane 200 So in terms of the attachment section 300 opposite sub-elements 310 the pressure membrane 300 in the direction of the cavity 115 spread or deflect and the sealing film or closure membrane 125 is severed. This embodiment has the particular advantage that no direct contact between the polymer membrane or the pressure membrane 200 and the cutting element 155 of the opening element 148 consists. As a result, the risk of severing the polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 through the cutting element 155 of the opening element 148 reduces and increases reliability.

The subfigures of the 4 each show a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a state of rest ( 4A ), a state at a first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 4B ) and a state at a second time following the first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 4C ). In this embodiment are compared to the in the 2A to 2C illustrated embodiment, the dimensions of the retaining element 150 and cutting elements 155 of the opening element 148 chosen so that the sealing seam of the sealing membrane 125 in the area of the housing unit 107 already experiencing a mechanical stress in the ground state. This embodiment has the particular advantage that the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 at particularly low pneumatic pressures of the conveying fluid 135 is severed. This increases the reliability.

The subfigures of the 5 each show a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a state of rest ( 5A ), a state at a first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 5B ) and a state at a second time following the first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 5C ). In this embodiment, the cutting element is located 155 of the opening element 148 opposite to in the 2A to 4C illustrated embodiments at the edge of the cavity 155 , preferably at the highest point of the cavity 155 who is the edge 500 the cavity 115 in the direction of the sealing membrane 125 forms. This embodiment has the particular advantage that the emptying of the fluid 120 from the cavity 115 can be supported by gravity and the fluid 120 with open closure membrane 125 directly to the outlet channel 145 is directed. In addition, it is possible to reduce the risk of air bubbles entering the exhaust duct 145 to reduce. This results in an even more reproducible emptying of the cavity 115 allows.

The subfigures of the 6 each show a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a state of rest ( 6A ), a state at a first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 6B ) and a state at a second time following the first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 6C ). In this embodiment, in addition to that in the 5A to 5C illustrated embodiment, at least one further opening element 148 ' provided at one the edge 500 opposite edge 500 ' the cavity 155 in the direction of the sealing membrane 125 is arranged. In this case, the opening element 148 as well as the further opening element 148 ' one cutting element each 155 respectively. 155 ' on. By actuation of the pneumatic pressure of the delivery fluid 135 becomes the polymer membrane or pressure membrane 200 deflected and pushes over the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 on the cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' of the opening element 148 respectively. 148 ' , leading to the breaking of the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 leads. After opening the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 is the pneumatic pressure on the fluid 135 taken away, so that the liquid or the fluid 120 through the openings of the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 with the help of gravity via the outlet channel or the outlet opening 145 can be emptied. To possible permeable openings in the sealing film or sealing membrane 125 To produce, it is particularly advantageous, the cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' arcuate (eg in the form of a semicircle), as shown in the plan view of FIG 6D is shown.

The subfigures of the 7 each show a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a storage unit presented here 100 in a state of rest ( 7A ), a state at a first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 7B ) and a state at a second time following the first time after activation of the stocking unit 100 ( 7C ). In this embodiment, in addition to that in the 2A to 6C illustrated embodiment, the layer structure of the housing unit 107 from three substrates 105 . 110 and 700 where the substrate 700 can be configured as an intermediate carrier element and between the lid member 105 and the fluid receiving element 110 is installed. In addition, the sealing film or the sealing membrane 125 applied in sections and the channel 710 between the lid member 105 and the fluid receiving element 110 through two bridges 720 interrupted. This makes it possible, by applying a pneumatic pressure on the access or inlet openings 130 the pressure membrane 200 so divert that the winning foil 125 on the cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' the opening elements 148 respectively. 148 ' to cut (see 7B ). The cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' the opening elements 148 respectively. 148 ' For this purpose, they are particularly advantageously designed in the form of hollow needles. After cutting through the sealing film 125 Subsequently, a pneumatic pressure of the conveying fluid 135 reduced or completely stopped (see condition off 7C ) and a pressure over the channel piece 730 be applied (or the liquid is actively sucked back, which was not possible in the previous embodiment), which over the channel 750 into the cavity 3 is transmitted. As a result, the liquid or the fluid 120 through the channel 760 to the outlet channel 145 transported to the analysis unit.

Exemplary dimensions of the different components of the above embodiments may be given as follows:
Thick polymer substrate (cover element 105 or fluid receiving element 110 ); 0.5 to 5 mm
Volume of the fluid 120 that in the cavity 115 preceded by: 5 μl-10 ml
Flexible polymer membrane: thermoplastic elastomers (TPU, TPS, TPV), silicone, PDMS, elastomers ...
Thick polymer membrane (pressure membrane): 5 to 1 mm
Polymer substrates (cover element, fluid absorption element, two-carrier element): COP, COC, PP, PE, PC, PET, ABS

The cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' the opening elements 148 respectively. 148 ' can be made from the same polymers as the substrates 105 . 110 respectively. 700 be produced by injection molding. In addition, these cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' also made of metal (s) such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, gold, silver, copper, titanium, for example, before the injection-molding process directly in or on the holding elements 150 can be sunk to the respective opening element in question 148 manufacture. The cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' may also be formed by other joining methods (e.g. gluing) in the polymer substrates 105 . 110 or 700 be attached.

With respect to the sealing membrane as a preferably multi-layered sealing film, the following can be exemplified
Thick barrier layer (usually aluminum): 10 μm to 500 μm
Thick sealant layer (eg PP, PE, hot-melt adhesive): 5 μm to 500 μm
Thick protective layer (eg PET, polyester, PP, PE, protective lacquer): 5 μm to 500 μm

In addition to the exemplary embodiments, any other geometric connections between polymer membrane (pressure membrane) and polymer substrate (cover element, fluid absorption element) are possible in the preferred direction of the membrane 125 respectively. 200 as well as to favor their deflection. The required polymer substrates (starting material) and the required structures like the opening elements 148 in the polymer substrates 105 . 110 or 700 can be produced for example by milling, injection molding, hot stamping or laser structuring. The breakthroughs 130 the polymer membrane or the cover element 105 can be generated by punching or laser structuring.

With regard to the geometry of the cutting elements (stops, tips or hollow needles) of the opening elements, the following can be noted.

In the embodiments according to the 1A to 5C In the simplest case, the cutting elements may have the geometry of a concentric tip (see, for example, FIG 8A in a cross-sectional view and 9A in a plan view). Here are more geometries for the cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' possible, for example, pyramidal tips have (see, for example 8B in a cross-sectional view and 9B in a plan view). In a further embodiment, the cutting elements 155 respectively. 155 ' have the shape of a simple cutting edge. This cutting edge can also be designed arcuate, z. B. the curves of the cavity 115 as a border 500 image to the barrier film 125 have to reproducibly break over a larger area (see for example 8C in a cross-sectional view and 9C in a plan view).

With respect to the embodiments of the 6A to 7C It should be noted that in addition to stops or tips as a shape for the cutting elements 155 Hollow needles are useful. These hollow needles have a concentric shape with an inner channel as microfluidic path (see for example 8D in a cross-sectional view and 9d in a plan view). The hollow needles should be comparatively pointed at their edges to the barrier film 125 break up reproducibly under load as this is particularly favorable in the embodiment according to the 7A to 7C can be used. In a further advantageous embodiment, the hollow needles can be designed semi-circular, as in the embodiment according to FIGS 6A to 6C is particularly advantageous use. This form of hollow needles allows that the approach presented here also remains suitable injection molding, since no undercuts in the channel 750 as in the embodiment according to the 6A to 6C be generated.

10 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the approach presented here as a method 1000 for producing a storage unit according to an exemplary embodiment presented here, wherein for the method component of the housing unit are provided, wherein at least one component of the housing unit has the cavity and the opening element and a component of the housing unit has the inlet opening. The procedure 1000 includes a step of filling 1010 of the fluid into the cavity of the component of the housing unit and a step 1020 the fluid-tight closing of the cavity in the Component of the housing unit with the sealing membrane. Finally, the method includes a step 1030 assembling the components of the housing unit to make the storage unit.

11 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the approach presented here as a method 1100 for releasing a fluid stored in a storage unit according to an embodiment presented here, wherein the method 1100 the next step 1110 introducing a delivery fluid into the inlet port to force the closure membrane to the port member by pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure and thereby open the obturator diaphragm to release the fluid in the cavity.

12 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the approach presented here as a device 1200 for producing a storage unit according to an exemplary embodiment presented here, wherein components of the housing unit are provided for the production, wherein at least one component of the housing unit has the cavity and the opening element and a component of the housing unit has the inlet opening. The device 1200 includes a unit 1210 for filling the fluid into the cavity of the component of the housing unit and a unit 1220 for fluid-tight sealing of the cavity in the component of the housing unit with the closure membrane. Finally, the device 1200 one unity 1030 for assembling the components of the housing unit to produce the storage unit.

11 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the approach presented here as a device 1100 for releasing a fluid stored in a storage unit according to an embodiment presented here, wherein the device 1300 one unity 1310 for introducing a delivery fluid into the inlet port to force the closure membrane to the port member by pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure and thereby open the obturator diaphragm to release the fluid in the cavity.

If an exemplary embodiment comprises a "and / or" link between a first feature and a second feature, then this is to be read so that the embodiment according to one embodiment, both the first feature and the second feature and according to another embodiment either only first feature or only the second feature.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 1896180 B1 [0003]

Claims (15)

Storage unit ( 100 ) for storing a fluid ( 120 ), the storage unit ( 100 ) has the following features: a housing unit ( 107 ), which is a cavity ( 115 ) for receiving the fluid ( 120 ) having; - a sealing membrane ( 125 ) formed and / or arranged to receive a fluid ( 120 ) in the cavity ( 115 ) fluid-tight in the cavity ( 115 ) to include; An inlet opening ( 130 ) in a wall of the housing unit ( 107 ) for introducing a delivery fluid ( 135 ) and exerting a pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure by the conveying fluid ( 135 ) on the sealing membrane ( 125 ), whereby the sealing membrane ( 125 ) the inlet opening ( 130 ) fluidly from the cavity ( 115 ) separates; and - an opening element ( 148 ) for opening the closure membrane ( 125 ) upon exposure of the occlusive membrane ( 125 ) with the pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure, wherein the opening element ( 148 ) on one of the inlet opening ( 130 ) opposite side of the closure membrane ( 125 ) is arranged. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening element ( 148 ) one in the direction of the closure membrane ( 125 ) tapered structure ( 155 ), in particular wherein the opening element ( 148 ) on one of the sealing membrane ( 125 ) opposite side a cutting element ( 155 ) for separating the sealing membrane ( 125 ) having. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening element ( 148 ) as a harlot ( 155 ) is formed, in particular in a use of the storage unit ( 100 ) when opening the closure membrane ( 125 ) a contact of the conveying fluid ( 135 ) with one in the cavity ( 115 ) stored fluid ( 120 ). Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening element ( 148 ) extending from a substantially flat floor area ( 160 ) in the direction of the closure membrane ( 125 ) extends. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening element ( 148 ) a border ( 500 ) of the cavity ( 115 ). Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing unit ( 107 ) a fluid receiving subunit ( 110 ) and a lid unit ( 105 ), wherein the fluid intake unit ( 110 ) with the sealing membrane ( 125 ) closable and / or sealed cavity ( 115 ) and wherein the cover unit ( 105 ) the inlet opening ( 130 ) having. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a pressure membrane ( 200 ) located between the inlet opening ( 130 ) and the sealing membrane ( 125 ) is arranged, and the opposite of the closure membrane ( 125 ) is designed tear-resistant, in particular wherein the pressure membrane ( 200 ) is adapted to a pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure through the via the inlet opening ( 130 ) conveying fluid ( 135 ) withstand. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure membrane ( 200 ) at a mounting portion ( 300 ) on the housing unit ( 107 ), wherein at least two on opposite sides of the mounting portion ( 300 ) arranged subsections ( 310 ) of the pressure membrane ( 200 ) at an inflow of the conveying fluid ( 135 ) through the inlet opening ( 130 ) in the direction of the closure membrane ( 125 ) are movable. Storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an outlet opening for releasing the in the cavity ( 115 ) storable or stored fluids ( 120 ), wherein the outlet opening ( 145 ) in an area of attachment of the sealing membrane ( 125 ) on a part of the housing unit ( 107 ) is provided. Procedure ( 1000 ) for producing a storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein for the process ( 1000 ) Component of the housing unit ( 107 ), wherein at least one component ( 110 ) of the housing unit ( 107 ) the cavity ( 115 ) and the opening element ( 148 ) and a component ( 105 ) of the housing unit ( 107 ) the inlet opening ( 130 ), the method ( 1000 ) comprises the following steps: - filling ( 1010 ) of the fluid ( 120 ) into the cavity ( 115 ) of the component of the housing unit ( 107 ); - Fluid-tight ( 1020 ) Closing the cavity ( 115 ) in the component of the housing unit ( 107 ) with the sealing membrane ( 125 ); and - assembling ( 1030 ) of the components ( 105 . 110 ) of the housing unit ( 107 ) to the stocking unit ( 100 ). Procedure ( 1100 ) for releasing a in a storage unit ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims stored fluid ( 120 ) the method ( 1100 ) comprises the following step: - Initiate ( 1110 ) of a delivery fluid ( 135 ) into the inlet opening ( 130 ) to the sealing membrane ( 125 ) by pneumatic and / or hydraulic pressure to the opening element ( 148 ) and thereby the closure membrane ( 125 ) to open the fluid ( 120 ) in the cavity ( 115 ) release. Method according to claim 11, characterized by a step of sucking the fluid through an outlet channel ( 145 ) of the storage unit ( 100 ). Contraption ( 1200 ; 1300 ), the facilities ( 1210 . 1220 . 1230 ; 1310 ), which are adapted to the method ( 1200 . 1300 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, to drive and / or implement. Computer program adapted to perform the procedure ( 1200 . 1300 ) to implement, implement and / or to control according to one of the preceding claims. A machine readable storage medium storing the computer program of claim 14.

Images