Actuation Method and Apparatus, Micropump, and PCR Enhancement Method
The MSM micropump is simpler, more precise in dosing, faster in pumping, and less expensive than known micropumps. The MSM micropump can pump in both directions and does not need valves. The pump is powered by external magnetic field sources and is therefore wireless and contact-free. The micropump does not require any electrical or physical contact with the pump driver, and therefore can be a sealed and disposable component for clinical and field applications. The MSM pump is compatible with biological testing and increases PCR yield in forensic profiling.
The MSM micropump is compatible with forensic applications, specifically DNA profiling. It enhances polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which is a scientific technique used to create multiple copies of a particular DNA sequence. When the PCR reagent and DNA material contact with an MSM element, the DNA amplification is greater than would occur without the contact with MSM. The micropump is also suitable for lab-on-a-chip applications that require microfluidics.
Patent Number: US9091251B1
Application Number: US13550386A
Inventor: Ullakko, Kari | Mullner, Peter | Hampikian, Greg | Smith, Aaron
Priority Date: 14 Jul 2011
Priority Number: US9091251B1
Application Date: 16 Jul 2012
Publication Date: 28 Jul 2015
IPC Current: G01N002175 | F03G000706 | F04B001700
US Class: 1001
Assignee Applicant: Boise State University,Boise
Title: Actuation method and apparatus, micropump, and PCR enhancement method
Usefulness: Actuation method and apparatus, micropump, and PCR enhancement method
Summary: Actuation method.
Novelty: Actuation method involves providing contracted first portion of magnetic shape memory (MSM) material is located at position to produce contraction and not-contracted second portion located at position
Biomedical
Medical Imaging
USA
