Air jet manipulation of a droplet using superhydrophobic pathways

The aim of this project is to create a portable platform that is capable of automatically maneuvering a micro droplet on its surface. While plenty of research has been focused on using electro-wetting, air jet manipulation for the movement of droplet in a desired direction will be the corner stone o

Project Title

Air jet manipulation of a droplet using superhydrophobic pathways

Project Area of Specialization

Mechanical Engineering

Project Summary

The aim of this project is to create a portable platform that is capable of automatically maneuvering a micro droplet on its surface. While plenty of research has been focused on using electro-wetting, air jet manipulation for the movement of droplet in a desired direction will be the corner stone of this project which also serves the purpose of novelty. It involves the application of Microfluidics, Pneumatics and Electronics, hence qualifying it as multi-disciplinary project. Different designs of channels are made by using two flute end mill tool on CNC milling machine for achieving desired results. Its application is farfetched, yet, specifically designed to revolutionize the medical diagnostic practices. The design is optimized in such a way so as to miniaturize a whole laboratory protocol that is used for a specific blood diagnosis. Not only will it be easy to use for lab technicians, but will also be genial in saving time and expenses, thereby improving efficiency of the lab tests. A vast literature was reviewed in order to analyze the different techniques that had been adopted by previous research from the fabrication point of view. The methodology section shows a step by step guide on the conceptual, embodiment and detailed designs elaborating on the refinements added to its design in order to obtain the final shape. Furthermore, through the efforts put into the experimental phase, analytical solutions were drawn out based on its results. These results are later verified with simulations and compared for possible discrepancy. Finally, a thorough discussion on the presented results is summed up with conclusions and possible suggestions for future endeavors.  

Project Objectives

• Making a superhydrophobic surface for ease of droplet movement
• Ability to dispense 10 – 50 µL droplet on acrylic’s surface
• Pattern Acrylic surface for stopping and starting droplet motion
• Ability to actuate discrete droplet with known air jet force after calibration
• Automation of a droplet manipulation through microcontroller

Project Implementation Method

• Never Wet superhydrophobic spray is used to make the surface superhydrophobic
• Droplet manipulation is done by using specific design channeled chip which is made by using two flute end mill cutter at CNC milling machine
• Proportional valve and MPX4250DP sensor are used to control and measure the pressure respectively

Benefits of the Project

• Easing medical lab process in performing complicated experiments using automation.
• Revolutionizing medical diagnostic practices using droplet microfluidics.
• Cost effective fabrication and manipulation of droplet.
• Commercializing our product with industrial collaboration.

Technical Details of Final Deliverable

• Never Wet superhydrophobic spray is used to make the surface superhydrophobic
• Droplet manipulation is done by using specific design channeled chip which is made by using two flute end mill cutter at CNC milling machine
• Proportional valve and MPX4250DP sensor are used to control and measure the pressure respectively

Final Deliverable of the Project

Hardware System

Core Industry

Health

Other Industries

Core Technology

Clean Tech

Other Technologies

Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-Being for People, Affordable and Clean Energy, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Required Resources

If you need this project, please contact me on contact@adikhanofficial.com