EP1827694B1 - Drop dispenser device - Google Patents

Drop dispenser device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1827694B1
EP1827694B1 EP05848241A EP05848241A EP1827694B1 EP 1827694 B1 EP1827694 B1 EP 1827694B1 EP 05848241 A EP05848241 A EP 05848241A EP 05848241 A EP05848241 A EP 05848241A EP 1827694 B1 EP1827694 B1 EP 1827694B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
electrode
electrodes
drop
reservoir
liquid
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EP05848241A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1827694A1 (en
Inventor
Yves Fouillet
Dorothée JARY
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Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives CEA
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Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique CEA
Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives CEA
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
    • B01L3/5027—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip
    • B01L3/502769—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by multiphase flow arrangements
    • B01L3/502784—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by multiphase flow arrangements specially adapted for droplet or plug flow, e.g. digital microfluidics
    • B01L3/502792—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by multiphase flow arrangements specially adapted for droplet or plug flow, e.g. digital microfluidics for moving individual droplets on a plate, e.g. by locally altering surface tension
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B19/00—Machines or pumps having pertinent characteristics not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F04B1/00 - F04B17/00
    • F04B19/006—Micropumps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2200/00—Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
    • B01L2200/06—Fluid handling related problems
    • B01L2200/0605—Metering of fluids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
    • B01L2300/0809—Geometry, shape and general structure rectangular shaped
    • B01L2300/0816—Cards, e.g. flat sample carriers usually with flow in two horizontal directions
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
    • B01L2300/089—Virtual walls for guiding liquids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
    • B01L2400/04—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means
    • B01L2400/0403—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces
    • B01L2400/0415—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces electrical forces, e.g. electrokinetic
    • B01L2400/0427—Electrowetting
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/02—Burettes; Pipettes
    • B01L3/0241—Drop counters; Drop formers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device and a method for forming drops or small volumes of liquid from a liquid reservoir, using electrostatic forces.
  • the invention particularly relates to a liquid dispensing device that can be applied in discrete microfluidic, or microfluidic drop, for example for chemical or biological applications.
  • the invention applies to the formation of drops in devices, for biochemical, chemical or biological analysis, whether in the medical field, or in environmental monitoring, or in the field of quality control.
  • the forces used for displacement are electrostatic forces.
  • the document FR 2 841 063 describes a device implementing a catenary facing electrodes activated for displacement.
  • a drop 2 rests on a network 4 of electrodes, from which it is isolated by a dielectric layer 6 and a hydrophobic layer 8 ( Figure 1A ), all resting on a substrate 9.
  • Each electrode is connected to a common electrode via a switch, or rather an individual electrical relay control system 11.
  • the counterelectrode 10 may be either a catenary as described in FR-2 841 063 either a buried wire or a planar electrode on a hood in the case of a confined system.
  • the drop can thus be moved step by step ( figure 1C ), on the hydrophobic surface 8, by successive activation of the electrodes 4-1, 4-2, etc. and along the catenary 10.
  • the drops rest on the surface of a substrate comprising the matrix of electrodes, as illustrated in FIG. Figure 1A and as described in the document FR 2 841 063 .
  • a second family of embodiments consists in confining the droplet between two substrates, as explained, for example, in the document by G. POLLAK et al, already mentioned above.
  • the system generally consists of a chip and a control system.
  • the chips have electrodes as described above.
  • the electrical control system comprises a set of relays and a PLC or a PC for programming the switching of the relays.
  • the chip is electrically connected to the control system, so each relay can control one or more electrodes.
  • all the electrodes can be placed at a potential V0 or V1.
  • the liquid segment obtained is cut off by deactivating one of the activated electrodes (electrode Ec on the Figure 2C ). A drop 22 is thus obtained, as illustrated on the 2D figure .
  • This method can be applied by inserting electrodes between the reservoir R and one or more electrodes Ec ( Figure 2C ) said breaking electrode.
  • a liquid to be dispensed is deposited in a well 35 of this device ( figure 3A ).
  • This well is for example made in the upper cover 36 of the device.
  • the lower part is similar to the structure of the Figures 1A-1C .
  • a series of electrodes 31 is therefore used to stretch ( Figures 3B and 3C ) then to cut that liquid finger ( 3D figure ) as explained above in connection with the Figures 2A-2D .
  • the invention relates firstly to a liquid dispensing device as defined in claim 1.
  • the device may further comprise at least one second reservoir electrode and at least one second transfer electrode located between two adjacent reservoir electrodes, at least two drop forming electrodes being associated with each reservoir electrode.
  • the device may further comprise at least one second reservoir electrode, and at least one second transfer electrode located at least partially opposite the opening and at least two drop forming electrodes associated with the second reservoir electrode.
  • At least one second reservoir electrode, or each reservoir electrode has a surface at least equal to 3 times the area of each drop-forming electrode of the drop-forming electrodes associated therewith.
  • At least one reservoir electrode has a surface at least 10 times or 20 times the area of each drop forming electrode.
  • At least one reservoir electrode has a comb shape, the teeth of which can be tapered on the side of the transfer electrode.
  • At least one reservoir electrode has a star shape.
  • a device according to the invention may comprise a confinement wall between a reservoir electrode and the opening, or even a confinement wall around at least one reservoir electrode.
  • One of the drop forming electrodes advantageously has a rounded shape on one side and a pointed one on the other, thus favoring the drop ejection mechanism minimizing the dependence on the nature of the liquids and the parameters of use. of the device.
  • the first substrate may include conductive means to form a counter electrode.
  • This first substrate may also have a hydrophobic surface.
  • the second substrate may also have a hydrophobic surface, and optionally a dielectric layer under the hydrophobic surface.
  • the invention also relates to a method of forming a liquid reservoir as defined in claim 19.
  • the invention also relates to a liquid drop dispensing method comprising a method of forming a liquid reservoir as described above, and the formation of a drop of liquid by activation of at least n electrodes for forming a liquid droplet. drops, n ⁇ 2, then deactivating at least one of these electrodes among the n-1 electrodes closest to the reservoir electrode, in order to pinch a finger of liquid.
  • the invention also relates to a liquid drop dispensing method using a device as described above, the formation of a liquid reservoir facing or above the reservoir electrode or at least two tank electrodes, and ejecting a drop of liquid through activating n drop-forming electrodes, n > 2, and then deactivating at least one of these electrodes from the n-1 electrodes closest to the reservoir electrode for which a reservoir is formed.
  • a first embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the Figures 4A and 4D, respectively in top view and in side view.
  • the Figure 4A represents in fact only the electrode system used in a device for dispensing calibrated drops according to the invention.
  • This well is placed at least partially in front of a transfer electrode 44, which is in fact formed in the substrate 46 of the device.
  • a reservoir electrode 48 which will allow to define a liquid holding micro-reservoir.
  • a counter electrode 47 is disposed in the cover 42.
  • the invention therefore proposes the organization of a series of electrodes in a drop dispensing device, these electrodes having different functions, a series of drop-forming electrodes and a transfer electrode being associated with each reservoir electrode.
  • the reservoir electrode is located between the transfer electrode and the formation electrodes drops, but other configurations are possible, as illustrated in the Figures 8A and 8B .
  • the first electrode 44 is used to pump the liquid from the reservoir and bring it near the second electrode 48, said reservoir electrode.
  • this reservoir electrode can be accumulated a certain amount of liquid. It is represented as having a square or rectangular shape on the Figure 4A but its form can be any. Preferably, it can accumulate at least three to four times the volume of drops to be dispensed, and preferably at least 10 times or 20 times the volume of each drop dispensed.
  • the distance between the two substrates 42, 46 is substantially constant (as can be seen in FIG. Figure 4B it is in fact the surface of the electrode 48 which is at least three to four times equal, or at least 10 or 20 times equal to the area of each of the drop forming electrodes 50, 52, 54, 56.
  • the transfer electrode when activated, makes it possible to bring a portion of liquid, located in the well 40, close to the reservoir electrode 48.
  • the drops that will then be able to be formed using the electrodes 50-56 will themselves be independent of the pressure of the liquid in the well 40.
  • the transfer electrode 44 is not activated, the liquid defined by the reservoir electrode 48 is not in contact with the well 40.
  • the ejection or the drop dispensing that can be carried out at From the liquid stored above the electrode 48 can therefore be performed in a calibrated manner, while using a well 40, and regardless of the pressure therein, to fill the component.
  • the user fills the well 40 with the liquid to be dispensed in the microfluidic component.
  • the electrical control of the different electrodes is then controlled and controlled by an electric controller or a PC, which drives relays assigned to each of the electrodes.
  • steps 1 to 5 When the reservoir electrode is empty, or is no longer sufficiently filled, it is possible to start a new cycle (steps 1 to 5) again to repel the liquid in the well 40 and bring it to the level of the reservoir electrode thanks to the 44 transfer electrode, etc.
  • the device comprises at least two forming electrodes, but other electrodes may be provided for the manipulation of the drops in the microsystem (electrodes 54, 56 in dotted line on the Figure 4A ).
  • the volume of the well is defined by its diameter (or section) and by its height.
  • the height of the well may be of the order of a millimeter to a few millimeters, for example between 1 mm and 10 mm.
  • the volume of liquid stored in the well can be large with a minimum footprint (chip surface).
  • containment means for example in the form of walls 60, to better confine the liquids.
  • the spacer can be a thick layer of resin whose shape can be structured: for example by using a layer of photoresist (SU8, ordyl ...) and defining the patterns by photolithography.
  • a wall is made with an opening 61 between the reservoir electrode 48 and the well 40).
  • This first pattern makes it possible to ensure that the liquid of the reservoir electrode 48 does not rise towards the well 40, which is explained by the capillarity forces: the narrowing acts as a dam as long as the surfaces are non-wetting. is as long as there is no activation by the electrodes.
  • the surfaces of the walls 60 are preferably rendered hydrophobic.
  • the shape of the reservoir electrode 48 in order to constantly press or attract the liquid towards the drop formation electrodes 50 and 56 and to always allow the initiation of the finger formation process to take place. liquid when dispensing with gout.
  • This improvement also makes it possible to empty the tank completely.
  • the transfer electrode 44 has a shape adapted to bring the liquid to the reservoir electrode 48.
  • the finger is cut to form a new drop.
  • the future drop has a pointed shape on one side, and is rather spherical or angular on the other ( Figure 7B ).
  • the spherical or angular shape is explained by the competition between capillary forces and the effect of electrowetting on a square electrode. In the end, the volume of the drop depends very much on the values of the surface tension and the value of the voltage applied to the electrodes.
  • the finger takes a shape gooseneck.
  • This gooseneck geometry can also depend on a certain number of parameters such as the surface tension, the values of the voltage applied to the electrodes, as well as the geometry of the cutoff electrode.
  • a drop forming electrode can be defined by a shape limiting angle effects on one side, and controlling the shape of the gooseneck. This is obtained by producing an electrode, for example the electrode 54, in the form of a "drop": it is round on one side 54-1 and pointed on the other side 54-2, as shown in FIG. Figure 7A .
  • FIG. 8A and 8B Another example of an application is illustrated on the Figures 8A and 8B , schematically in top view.
  • the upper substrate providing confinement and in which the well is formed, is not shown. Only the distribution of the transfer electrodes, the reservoir electrodes and the drop forming electrodes is represented.
  • a well 100 feeds several reservoir electrodes 104, 106, 108, 110 according to the invention, via transfer electrodes 101, 103, 105, 107.
  • formation electrodes droplets generally designated by references 154, 156, 158, 160.
  • Each series of forming electrodes is associated with a reservoir electrode.
  • the tanks 104, 106, 108, 110 are arranged in series from the well and the drops are formed in parallel from each tank.
  • a well 200 supplies in parallel a plurality of reservoir electrodes 204, 206, 208 according to the invention, via transfer electrodes 201, 203, 205.
  • drop forming electrodes At the outlet of each reservoir electrode are arranged drop forming electrodes globally designated by references 254, 256, 258. Again, each series of formation electrodes is associated with a reservoir electrode.
  • the tanks 204, 206, 208 are arranged in parallel with the well, and the drops are formed in parallel from each tank.
  • the electrical control of the different electrodes can be controlled by a electric controller or a PC, which drives relays assigned to each of the electrodes.
  • Figures 8A and 8B can be combined with one or more of the embodiments of the Figures 5A-7C .
  • One or more of the reservoir electrodes may be provided with means of confinement, as on the Figures 5A and 5B , and / or have a shape as illustrated on the Figures 6A-6B , while one or more of the drop forming electrodes may have a shape as illustrated on the Figure 7A .
  • the buried electrodes are obtained by depositing and then etching a thin layer of a metal chosen from Au, Al, Ito, Pt, Cu, Cr, ... by means of conventional microtechnologies microelectronics.
  • the thickness of the electrodes is from a few tens of nm to a few microns, for example between 10 nm and 1 ⁇ m.
  • the width of the pattern is from a few ⁇ m to a few mm (flat electrodes) for the electrodes 50-56 and the transfer electrode 44.
  • the two substrates 42, 46 are typically spaced apart by a distance of, for example, 10 ⁇ m and 100 ⁇ m or 500 ⁇ m.
  • a drop ejected liquid 22 will have a volume between, for example, a few picoliters and a few microliters, for example between 1 pl or 10 pl and 5 .mu.l or 10 .mu.l.
  • each of the electrodes 50-56, 150, 152, 154, 250, 252, 254 has, for example, a the order of a few tens of ⁇ m 2 (for example 10 ⁇ m 2 ) up to 1 mm 2 , depending on the size of the drops to be transported, the spacing between adjacent electrodes being for example between 1 micron and 10 microns.
  • the structuring of the electrodes can be obtained by conventional microtechnology methods, for example by photolithography.
  • the electrodes are for example made by depositing a metal layer (Au, Al, ITO, Pt, Cr, Cu, ...) by photolithography.
  • the substrate is then covered with a dielectric layer of Si 3 N 4 , SiO 2 , ... Finally, a deposit of a hydrophobic layer is performed, such as a teflon deposit made by spinning.
  • Methods for producing chips incorporating a device according to the invention may be directly derived from the methods described in the document FR-2 841 063 .
  • Conductors and in particular buried catenaries, may be made by depositing a conductive layer and etching this layer in the appropriate pattern of conductors, before deposition of the hydrophobic layer.
  • Each of the different electrodes is connected to a relay means to bring it to a potential defined by a voltage source.
  • the whole is controlled by an electric automaton or a PC.
  • the chips measure 13mm by 13mm, and the drop displacement electrodes measure 800 ⁇ m per 800 ⁇ m.
  • the hatched discs 350, 352, 354, 356, 358 ( Figure 9A ) 351, 353, 355 ( Figure 9B ) represent the location of the holes in the hood (sinks).
  • the disk 360 represents a trash zone.
  • main tank 400 - opening on a first electrode line 255, whose left end opens to the trash zone 360. Through this line, drops of liquids can be removed and transported by electrowetting from the main tank 400.
  • the Figures 9A and 9B are two chip structures showing different shapes and arrangements of the tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 and 351, 353, 355.
  • the chip of the Figure 9A has 4 secondary tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 open on the outside by wells.
  • the chip of the Figure 9B has 3 secondary tanks 351, 353, 355 open on the outside by wells.
  • Each reservoir is associated with a set of electrodes 360, 362, 364, 366 and 361, 363 which make it possible to bring one or more drops from the corresponding reservoir to the path 402.
  • a section 257 also formed of electrodes allows to link the path 255 and the loop 402.
  • the references 410, 411 represent zones or addressing pads of the electrodes which constitute the paths 255, 402 and electrodes located at the outlet of the different reservoirs. These zones or pads may themselves be controlled by electronic or computer means.
  • the tanks are configured and used according to the invention: they comprise a series of electrodes for confining a volume of liquid at a reservoir electrode from a well to allow reproducible dispensing drops.
  • the tanks comprise containment means 480, 481 (tank electrodes) star or tip, arranged, according to the invention, downstream of the transfer electrodes from the tank.
  • a drop dispensing method according to the invention can implement a device as described in connection with the Figures 9A and 9B .

Description

L'invention concerne un dispositif et un procédé de formation de gouttes ou de petits volumes de liquide, à partir d'un réservoir de liquide, mettant en oeuvre des forces électrostatiques.The invention relates to a device and a method for forming drops or small volumes of liquid from a liquid reservoir, using electrostatic forces.

L'invention concerne notamment un dispositif de dispense de liquide pouvant être appliqué en microfluidique discrète, ou microfluidique en goutte, par exemple en vue d'applications chimiques ou biologiques.The invention particularly relates to a liquid dispensing device that can be applied in discrete microfluidic, or microfluidic drop, for example for chemical or biological applications.

L'invention s'applique à la formation de gouttes dans des dispositifs, en vue d'analyses biochimiques, chimique ou biologiques, que ce soit dans le domaine médical, ou dans la surveillance environnementale, ou dans le domaine du contrôle de qualité.The invention applies to the formation of drops in devices, for biochemical, chemical or biological analysis, whether in the medical field, or in environmental monitoring, or in the field of quality control.

Un des modes de déplacements ou de manipulation les plus utilisés repose sur le principe de l'électromouillage sur un diélectrique, comme décrit dans l'article de M. G. Pollack, A. D. Shendorov, R. B. Fair, intitulé « Electro-wetting-based actuation of droplets for integrated microfluidics », Lab Chip 2 (1) (2002), pages 96-101 .One of the most used modes of movement or manipulation is based on the principle of electrowetting on a dielectric, as described in the article of MG Pollack, AD Shendorov, RB Fair, entitled "Electro-wetting-based actuation of droplets for integrated microfluidics", Lab Chip 2 (1) (2002), pages 96-101 .

Les forces utilisées pour le déplacement sont des forces électrostatiques.The forces used for displacement are electrostatic forces.

Le document FR 2 841 063 décrit un dispositif mettant en oeuvre un caténaire en regard des électrodes activées pour le déplacement.The document FR 2 841 063 describes a device implementing a catenary facing electrodes activated for displacement.

Le principe de ce type de déplacement est synthétisé sur les figures 1A-1C.The principle of this type of displacement is synthesized on the Figures 1A-1C .

Une goutte 2 repose sur un réseau 4 d'électrodes, dont elle est isolée par une couche diélectrique 6 et une couche hydrophobe 8 (figure 1A), le tout reposant sur un substrat 9.A drop 2 rests on a network 4 of electrodes, from which it is isolated by a dielectric layer 6 and a hydrophobic layer 8 ( Figure 1A ), all resting on a substrate 9.

Chaque électrode est reliée à une électrode commune via un commutateur, ou plutôt un système de commande individuel par relais électrique 11.Each electrode is connected to a common electrode via a switch, or rather an individual electrical relay control system 11.

Initialement, toutes les électrodes ainsi que la contre électrode sont placées à un potentiel de référence V0.Initially, all the electrodes as well as the counter electrode are placed at a reference potential V0.

Lorsque l'électrode 4-1 située à proximité de la goutte 2 est activée (placée à un potentiel V1 différent de V0 par actionnement du relais 11), la couche diélectrique 6 et la couche hydrophobe 8 entre cette électrode activée et la goutte, polarisée par la contre-électrode 10, agissent comme une capacité, les effets de charge électro-statiques induisent le déplacement de la goutte sur l'électrode activée. La contre-électrode 10 peut être soit un caténaire comme décrit dans FR-2 841 063 soit un fil enterré, soit une électrode planaire sur un capot dans le cas d'un système confiné.When the electrode 4-1 located near the drop 2 is activated (placed at a potential V1 different from V0 by actuating the relay 11), the dielectric layer 6 and the hydrophobic layer 8 between this activated electrode and the drop, polarized by the counter-electrode 10, act as a capacitance, the electrostatic charge effects induce the displacement of the drop on the activated electrode. The counterelectrode 10 may be either a catenary as described in FR-2 841 063 either a buried wire or a planar electrode on a hood in the case of a confined system.

Les forces d'origine électrostatique se superposent aux forces de mouillage ce qui provoque l'étalement de la goutte sur la surface. Par abus de langage, on dit que la surface est rendue hydrophile.The forces of electrostatic origin are superimposed on the wetting forces which causes the spreading of the drop on the surface. By abuse of language, it is said that the surface is rendered hydrophilic.

La goutte peut ainsi être déplacée de proche en proche (figure 1C), sur la surface hydrophobe 8, par activation successive des électrodes 4-1, 4-2,... etc. et le long du caténaire 10.The drop can thus be moved step by step ( figure 1C ), on the hydrophobic surface 8, by successive activation of the electrodes 4-1, 4-2, etc. and along the catenary 10.

Les documents cités ci-dessus donnent des exemples de mises en oeuvre de séries d'électrodes adjacentes pour la manipulation d'une goutte dans un plan.The documents cited above give examples of implementations of adjacent electrode series for handling a drop in a plane.

Il existe deux familles de réalisation de ce type de dispositif.There are two families of realization of this type of device.

Dans un premier cas les gouttes reposent à la surface d'un substrat comportant la matrice d'électrodes, comme illustré sur la figure 1A et comme décrit dans le document FR 2 841 063 .In a first case, the drops rest on the surface of a substrate comprising the matrix of electrodes, as illustrated in FIG. Figure 1A and as described in the document FR 2 841 063 .

Une deuxième famille de réalisation consiste à confiner la goutte entre deux substrats, comme expliqué par exemple dans le document de M. G. POLLAK et al déjà cité ci-dessus.A second family of embodiments consists in confining the droplet between two substrates, as explained, for example, in the document by G. POLLAK et al, already mentioned above.

Dans le premier cas on parle de système ouvert, dans le deuxième cas on parle de système confiné.In the first case we speak of an open system, in the second case we speak of a confined system.

Le système est en général constitué d'une puce et d'un système de commande.The system generally consists of a chip and a control system.

Les puces comportent des électrodes, comme décrit ci-dessus.The chips have electrodes as described above.

Le système de pilotage électrique comporte un ensemble de relais et un automate ou un PC permettant de programmer la commutation des relais.The electrical control system comprises a set of relays and a PLC or a PC for programming the switching of the relays.

La puce est connectée électriquement au système de commande, ainsi chaque relais permet de piloter une ou plusieurs électrodes.The chip is electrically connected to the control system, so each relay can control one or more electrodes.

Grâce aux relais, toutes les électrodes peuvent être placées à un potentiel V0 ou V1.Thanks to the relays, all the electrodes can be placed at a potential V0 or V1.

Pour déplacer une goutte sur une ligne d'électrodes, il suffit de relier toutes les électrodes à des relais et de les activer successivement comme décrit sur les figures 1A-1C.To move a drop on a line of electrodes, simply connect all the electrodes to relays and activate them successively as described in Figures 1A-1C .

Sur ce principe, il est possible de former des gouttes à partir d'un réservoir R (figure 2A) grâce à une ligne d'électrodes E1-E4 qui est reliée à ce réservoir.On this principle, it is possible to form drops from a reservoir R ( Figure 2A ) thanks to an electrode line E1-E4 which is connected to this tank.

L'activation de cette série d'électrodes E1-E4 conduit à l'étalement d'une goutte, et donc à un segment liquide 20 comme illustré sur la figure 2B.Activation of this series of electrodes E1-E4 leads to the spreading of a drop, and therefore to a liquid segment 20 as illustrated in FIG. Figure 2B .

Puis, on coupe le segment liquide obtenu en désactivant une des électrodes activées (électrode Ec sur la figure 2C). On obtient ainsi une goutte 22, comme illustré sur la figure 2D.Then, the liquid segment obtained is cut off by deactivating one of the activated electrodes (electrode Ec on the Figure 2C ). A drop 22 is thus obtained, as illustrated on the 2D figure .

On peut appliquer ce procédé en insérant des électrodes entre le réservoir R et une ou plusieurs électrode Ec (figure 2C) dite électrode de coupure.This method can be applied by inserting electrodes between the reservoir R and one or more electrodes Ec ( Figure 2C ) said breaking electrode.

Appliqué à la configuration confinée expliquée ci-dessus, ce principe conduit à une configuration d'un dispositif de dispense de goutte, comme illustré sur les figures 3A-3D.Applied to the confined configuration explained above, this principle leads to a configuration of a drop dispensing device, as illustrated in FIG. Figures 3A-3D .

Un liquide 30 à dispenser est déposé dans un puits 35 de ce dispositif (figure 3A). Ce puits est par exemple réalisé dans le capot supérieur 36 du dispositif. La partie inférieure est similaire à la structure des figures 1A-1C.A liquid to be dispensed is deposited in a well 35 of this device ( figure 3A ). This well is for example made in the upper cover 36 of the device. The lower part is similar to the structure of the Figures 1A-1C .

On utilise donc une série d'électrodes 31 pour étirer (figures 3B et 3C) puis pour couper ce doigt de liquide (figure 3D) comme expliqué ci-dessus en liaison avec les figures 2A-2D.A series of electrodes 31 is therefore used to stretch ( Figures 3B and 3C ) then to cut that liquid finger ( 3D figure ) as explained above in connection with the Figures 2A-2D .

L'inconvénient de cette méthode est sa non reproductibilité.The disadvantage of this method is its non-reproducibility.

En effet les mécanismes fluidiques lors de la formation du doigt ainsi que la coupure du doigt sont malheureusement très influencés par la pression dans le puits 35. Au fur et à mesure que le puits se vide, la pression dans celui-ci évolue (la forme de ménisque dans le puits peut influencer la pression capillaire, et la hauteur de liquide peut aussi modifier la pression hydrostatique) et les gouttes formées ne présentent pas un volume constant.Indeed the fluidic mechanisms during the formation of the finger as well as the cutting of the finger are unfortunately very influenced by the pressure in the well 35. As the well empties, the pressure in it changes (the shape meniscus in the well can influence the capillary pressure, and the liquid height can also modify the hydrostatic pressure) and the drops formed do not have a constant volume.

D'ultérieurs dispositifs de dispense de liquide sont connus de FR-A-2794039 , WO-2006/008424 et EP-A-1627685 .Later liquid dispensing devices are known from FR-A-2794039 , WO-2006/008424 and EP-A-1627685 .

EXPOSÉ DE L'INVENTIONSTATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

L'invention, concerne d'abord un dispositif de dispense de liquide tel que défini à la revendication 1.The invention relates firstly to a liquid dispensing device as defined in claim 1.

Le dispositif peut en outre comporter au moins une deuxième électrode réservoir et au moins une deuxième électrode de transfert située entre deux électrodes réservoirs voisines, au moins deux électrodes de formation de gouttes étant associées à chaque électrode réservoir.The device may further comprise at least one second reservoir electrode and at least one second transfer electrode located between two adjacent reservoir electrodes, at least two drop forming electrodes being associated with each reservoir electrode.

Selon une variante, le dispositif peut comporter en outre au moins une deuxième électrode réservoir, et au moins une deuxième électrode de transfert située au moins partiellement en regard de l'ouverture et au moins deux électrodes de formation de gouttes associées à la deuxième électrode réservoir.According to one variant, the device may further comprise at least one second reservoir electrode, and at least one second transfer electrode located at least partially opposite the opening and at least two drop forming electrodes associated with the second reservoir electrode. .

De préférence au moins une deuxième électrode réservoir, ou chaque électrode réservoir, a une surface au moins égale à 3 fois la surface de chaque électrode de formation de gouttes des électrodes de formation de gouttes qui lui sont associées.Preferably at least one second reservoir electrode, or each reservoir electrode, has a surface at least equal to 3 times the area of each drop-forming electrode of the drop-forming electrodes associated therewith.

L'invention concerne donc également un dispositif de dispense de liquide, du type confiné, comportant un premier et un deuxième substrat, le deuxième substrat étant muni d'une ouverture d'introduction d'un fluide, le premier substrat étant muni d'une pluralité d'électrodes, dont :

  • une alternance d'électrodes, dites de transfert, dont au moins une partie est située au moins partiellement en regard de l'ouverture, et d'électrodes réservoirs,
  • une série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes, associée à chaque électrode réservoir, au moins une des électrodes réservoir ayant une surface au moins égale à 3 fois la surface de chaque électrode de formation de gouttes de la série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes associée à cette électrode réservoir.
The invention therefore also relates to a liquid dispensing device, of the confined type, comprising a first and a second substrate, the second substrate being provided with an opening for introducing a fluid, the first substrate being provided with a plurality of electrodes, of which:
  • an alternation of so-called transfer electrodes, at least a part of which is situated at least partially opposite the opening, and of reservoir electrodes,
  • a series of drop forming electrodes, associated with each reservoir electrode, at least one of the reservoir electrodes having an area at least equal to 3 times the area of each drop forming electrode of the series of drop forming electrodes associated with this reservoir electrode.

L'invention concerne également un dispositif de dispense de liquide, du type confiné, comportant un premier et un deuxième substrat, le deuxième substrat étant muni d'une ouverture d'introduction d'un fluide, le premier substrat étant muni d'une pluralité d'électrodes, dont :

  • une pluralité d'électrodes, dites de transfert, au moins une partie de chaque électrode de transfert étant située au moins partiellement en regard de l'ouverture, et une pluralité d'électrodes réservoirs, chaque électrode réservoir étant associée à une électrode de transfert,
  • une série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes, associée à chaque électrode réservoir, au moins une des électrodes réservoir ayant une surface au moins égale à 3 fois la surface de chaque électrode de formation de gouttes de la série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes associée à cette électrode réservoir.
The invention also relates to a liquid dispensing device, of the confined type, comprising a first and a second substrate, the second substrate being provided with an opening for introducing a fluid, the first substrate being provided with a plurality of electrodes, including:
  • a plurality of so-called transfer electrodes, at least a portion of each transfer electrode being located at least partially opposite the opening, and a plurality of reservoir electrodes, each reservoir electrode being associated with a transfer electrode,
  • a series of drop forming electrodes, associated with each reservoir electrode, at least one of the reservoir electrodes having a surface area at least equal to 3 times the area of each drop forming electrode of the series of drop forming electrodes associated with this reservoir electrode.

On peut donc réaliser des systèmes d'alimentation en gouttes selon l'invention, comportant plusieurs électrodes réservoir, chacune étant associée à une série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes, les électrodes réservoirs étant :

  • disposées en série à partir d'une ouverture d'alimentation en liquide, et alternant avec des électrodes de transfert,
  • ou disposées en parallèle autour ou à partir de cette ouverture, et chacune étant alimentée par une électrode de transfert.
It is therefore possible to provide drop delivery systems according to the invention, comprising a plurality of reservoir electrodes each associated with a series of drop-forming electrodes, the reservoir electrodes being:
  • arranged in series from a liquid supply opening, and alternating with transfer electrodes,
  • or arranged in parallel around or from this opening, and each being fed by a transfer electrode.

De préférence, au moins une électrode réservoir a une surface au moins égale à 10 fois ou 20 fois la surface de chaque électrode de formation de gouttes.Preferably, at least one reservoir electrode has a surface at least 10 times or 20 times the area of each drop forming electrode.

Avantageusement, au moins une électrode réservoir a une forme en peigne, dont les dents peuvent être effilées du côté de l'électrode de transfert.Advantageously, at least one reservoir electrode has a comb shape, the teeth of which can be tapered on the side of the transfer electrode.

Selon une variante, au moins une électrode réservoir a une forme en étoile.According to a variant, at least one reservoir electrode has a star shape.

Un dispositif selon l'invention peut comporter un mur de confinement entre une électrode réservoir et l'ouverture, ou même un mur de confinement autour d'au moins une électrode réservoir.A device according to the invention may comprise a confinement wall between a reservoir electrode and the opening, or even a confinement wall around at least one reservoir electrode.

L'une des électrodes de formation de gouttes a avantageusement une forme arrondie d'un côté et pointue de l'autre, favorisant ainsi le mécanisme d'éjection des gouttes minimisant la dépendance par rapport à la nature des liquides et aux paramètres d'utilisation du dispositif.One of the drop forming electrodes advantageously has a rounded shape on one side and a pointed one on the other, thus favoring the drop ejection mechanism minimizing the dependence on the nature of the liquids and the parameters of use. of the device.

Le premier substrat peut comporter des moyens conducteurs, afin de former une contre-électrode.The first substrate may include conductive means to form a counter electrode.

Ce premier substrat peut également présenter une surface hydrophobe.This first substrate may also have a hydrophobic surface.

Le deuxième substrat peut lui aussi présenter une surface hydrophobe, et éventuellement une couche diélectrique sous la surface hydrophobe.The second substrate may also have a hydrophobic surface, and optionally a dielectric layer under the hydrophobic surface.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de formation d'un réservoir liquide tel que défini à la revendication 19.The invention also relates to a method of forming a liquid reservoir as defined in claim 19.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de dispense de goutte de liquide comportant un procédé de formation d'un réservoir liquide tel que décrit ci-dessus, et la formation d'une goutte de liquide par activation d'au moins n électrodes de formation de gouttes, n ≥ 2, puis désactivation d'au moins une de ces électrodes parmi les n-1 électrodes les plus proches de l'électrode réservoir, afin de pincer un doigt de liquide.The invention also relates to a liquid drop dispensing method comprising a method of forming a liquid reservoir as described above, and the formation of a drop of liquid by activation of at least n electrodes for forming a liquid droplet. drops, n ≥ 2, then deactivating at least one of these electrodes among the n-1 electrodes closest to the reservoir electrode, in order to pinch a finger of liquid.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de dispense de goutte de liquide mettant en oeuvre un dispositif tel que décrit ci-dessus, la formation d'un réservoir de liquide en regard ou au-dessus de l'électrode réservoir ou d'au moins deux électrodes réservoir, et l'éjection d'une goutte de liquide par activation de n électrodes de formation de gouttes, n > 2, puis désactivation d'au moins une de ces électrodes parmi les n-1 électrodes les plus proches de l'électrode réservoir pour laquelle un réservoir est formé.The invention also relates to a liquid drop dispensing method using a device as described above, the formation of a liquid reservoir facing or above the reservoir electrode or at least two tank electrodes, and ejecting a drop of liquid through activating n drop-forming electrodes, n > 2, and then deactivating at least one of these electrodes from the n-1 electrodes closest to the reservoir electrode for which a reservoir is formed.

BRÈVE DESCRIPTION DES DESSINSBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

  • Les figures 1A-1C illustrent le principe de manipulation de goutte par électromouillage sur isolant,The Figures 1A-1C illustrate the principle of manipulation of drop by electrowetting on insulation,
  • les figures 2A-2D représentent des étapes d'un procédé connu pour fabriquer une goutte sur une ligne d'électrodes,the Figures 2A-2D represent steps of a known method for making a drop on an electrode line,
  • les figures 3A-3D représentent un dispositif de l'art antérieur,the Figures 3A-3D represent a device of the prior art,
  • les figures 4A et 4B représentent un exemple de réalisation d'un dispositif selon l'invention,the Figures 4A and 4B represent an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention,
  • les figures 5A-5B sont des exemples de variantes d'un dispositif selon l'invention,the Figures 5A-5B examples of variants of a device according to the invention,
  • les figures 6A-6B sont des exemples d'autres variantes d'un dispositif selon l'invention,the Figures 6A-6B examples of other variants of a device according to the invention,
  • les figures 7A-7C illustrent encore un autre exemple de variantes d'un dispositif selon l'invention.the Figures 7A-7C illustrate yet another example of variants of a device according to the invention.
  • les figures 8A et 8B illustrent encore un d'autres exemples d'application d'un dispositif selon l'invention.the Figures 8A and 8B illustrate yet another example of application of a device according to the invention.
  • les figures 9A et 9B représentent deux structures de dispositifs selon l'invention.the Figures 9A and 9B represent two structures of devices according to the invention.
EXPOSÉ DÉTAILLÉ DE MODES DE RÉALISATION PARTICULIERSDETAILED PRESENTATION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

Un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention est illustré sur les figures 4A et 4D, respectivement en vue de dessus et en vue de côté.A first embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the Figures 4A and 4D, respectively in top view and in side view.

La figure 4A ne représente en fait que le système d'électrodes mis en oeuvre dans un dispositif de distribution de gouttes calibrées selon l'invention.The Figure 4A represents in fact only the electrode system used in a device for dispensing calibrated drops according to the invention.

Sur cette figure, apparaît d'abord, le plus à gauche, un puits 40, qui est en fait pratiqué dans le capot 42 du dispositif (voir figure 4B).In this figure, first appears, the leftmost, a well 40, which is actually practiced in the hood 42 of the device (see Figure 4B ).

Ce puits est placé au moins partiellement en face d'une électrode de transfert 44, qui est en fait formée dans le substrat 46 du dispositif.This well is placed at least partially in front of a transfer electrode 44, which is in fact formed in the substrate 46 of the device.

A la suite de cette électrode de transfert on trouve une électrode réservoir 48, qui va permettre de définir un micro-réservoir de rétention de liquide.Following this transfer electrode there is a reservoir electrode 48, which will allow to define a liquid holding micro-reservoir.

Sont ensuite disposées des électrodes de formation de gouttes, quatre électrodes de formation 50, 52, 54, 56 étant représentées sur les figures 4A et 4B.Drop forming electrodes are then provided, four forming electrodes 50, 52, 54, 56 being shown on the Figures 4A and 4B .

Une contre électrode 47 est disposée dans le capot 42.A counter electrode 47 is disposed in the cover 42.

L'invention propose donc l'organisation d'une série d'électrodes dans un dispositif de dispense de gouttes, ces électrodes ayant des fonctions différentes, une série d'électrodes de formation de gouttes et une électrode de transfert étant associées à chaque électrode réservoir. Sur les figures 4A et suivantes, l'électrode de réservoir est située entre l'électrode de transfert et les électrodes de formation de gouttes, mais d'autres configurations sont possibles, comme illustré sur les figures 8A et 8B.The invention therefore proposes the organization of a series of electrodes in a drop dispensing device, these electrodes having different functions, a series of drop-forming electrodes and a transfer electrode being associated with each reservoir electrode. . On the Figures 4A and following, the reservoir electrode is located between the transfer electrode and the formation electrodes drops, but other configurations are possible, as illustrated in the Figures 8A and 8B .

La première électrode 44, dite électrode de transfert, permet de pomper le liquide du réservoir et de l'amener à proximité de la deuxième électrode 48, dite électrode réservoir.The first electrode 44, called transfer electrode, is used to pump the liquid from the reservoir and bring it near the second electrode 48, said reservoir electrode.

Sur cette électrode réservoir peut être accumulée une certaine quantité de liquide. Elle est représentée comme ayant une forme carrée ou rectangulaire sur la figure 4A, mais sa forme peut être quelconque. De préférence, elle peut accumuler au moins trois à quatre fois le volume des gouttes à dispenser, et de préférence au moins 10 fois ou 20 fois le volume de chaque goutte dispensée.On this reservoir electrode can be accumulated a certain amount of liquid. It is represented as having a square or rectangular shape on the Figure 4A but its form can be any. Preferably, it can accumulate at least three to four times the volume of drops to be dispensed, and preferably at least 10 times or 20 times the volume of each drop dispensed.

Comme la distance entre les deux substrats 42, 46 est sensiblement constante (comme on peut le voir sur la figure 4B) c'est en fait la surface de l'électrode 48 qui est au moins trois à quatre fois égale, ou au moins 10 ou 20 fois égale à la surface de chacune des électrodes de formation de gouttes 50, 52, 54, 56.Since the distance between the two substrates 42, 46 is substantially constant (as can be seen in FIG. Figure 4B it is in fact the surface of the electrode 48 which is at least three to four times equal, or at least 10 or 20 times equal to the area of each of the drop forming electrodes 50, 52, 54, 56.

L'électrode de transfert, lorsqu'elle est activée, permet d'amener une portion de liquide, située dans le puits 40, à proximité de l'électrode réservoir 48.The transfer electrode, when activated, makes it possible to bring a portion of liquid, located in the well 40, close to the reservoir electrode 48.

Lorsque cette dernière est elle aussi activée, le liquide est transféré dans la zone du dispositif située au-dessus de l'électrode réservoir 48.When the latter is also activated, the liquid is transferred to the area of the device located above the reservoir electrode 48.

Si l'on souhaite continuer à alimenter la zone située au-dessus du réservoir 48, on peut réactiver l'électrode 44, puis l'électrode 48, de manière à continuer à accumuler du liquide dans cette zone réservoir.If one wishes to continue feeding the area above tank 48, one can reactivate the electrode 44, then the electrode 48, so as to continue to accumulate liquid in this reservoir zone.

Il est ainsi possible d'accumuler un volume important de liquide 51 (figure 4B), à l'intérieur du dispositif. Un avantage important est que la pression dans ce volume de liquide accumulé au-dessus de l'électrode 48 est indépendante de la pression du liquide dans le puits 40 par désactivation de l'électrode de transfert 44.It is thus possible to accumulate a large volume of liquid 51 ( Figure 4B ), inside the device. An important advantage is that the pressure in this volume of liquid accumulated above the electrode 48 is independent of the pressure of the liquid in the well 40 by deactivation of the transfer electrode 44.

Ainsi, les gouttes qui vont pouvoir ensuite être formées à l'aide des électrodes 50-56 vont elles-mêmes être indépendantes de la pression du liquide dans le puits 40.Thus, the drops that will then be able to be formed using the electrodes 50-56 will themselves be independent of the pressure of the liquid in the well 40.

Tant que l'électrode 44 de transfert n'est pas activée, le liquide défini par l'électrode réservoir 48 n'est pas en contact avec le puits 40. L'éjection ou la dispense de goutte que l'on va pouvoir réaliser à partir du liquide stocké au-dessus de l'électrode 48 peut donc être réalisée de manière calibrée, tout en utilisant un puits 40, et indépendamment de la pression dans celui-ci, pour remplir le composant.As long as the transfer electrode 44 is not activated, the liquid defined by the reservoir electrode 48 is not in contact with the well 40. The ejection or the drop dispensing that can be carried out at From the liquid stored above the electrode 48 can therefore be performed in a calibrated manner, while using a well 40, and regardless of the pressure therein, to fill the component.

Un exemple de mode opératoire est le suivant.An example of the procedure is as follows.

L'utilisateur rempli le puits 40 avec le liquide à dispenser dans le composant microfluidique.The user fills the well 40 with the liquid to be dispensed in the microfluidic component.

Le pilotage électrique des différentes électrodes est alors contrôlé et piloté par un automate électrique ou un PC, qui pilote des relais affectés à chacune des électrodes.The electrical control of the different electrodes is then controlled and controlled by an electric controller or a PC, which drives relays assigned to each of the electrodes.

Les différentes séquences peuvent être les suivantes :

  1. 1- Toutes les électrodes sont au repos (état 0),
  2. 2- L'électrode de transfert 44 est placée à l'état 1 : le liquide dans le puits est amené à proximité de l'électrode réservoir 48,
  3. 3- L'électrode réservoir 48 est placée à l'état 1 : le liquide remplit l'espace au-dessus de l'électrode de réservoir 48,
  4. 4- L'électrode 44 de transfert est remise à l'état 0. On a formé une grande goutte 51 (figure 4B) au niveau de l'électrode réservoir, et cette goutte n'est plus en contact physique avec le puits.
  5. 5- Pour chaque nouvelle goutte à fabriquer on peut :
    • 5-1. Désactiver l'électrode réservoir 48,
    • 5-2. Activer les (au moins) deux électrodes de dispense 50-56,
    • 5-3. Désactiver au moins une des électrodes de dispense 50-56 (si deux électrodes seulement: on désactive l'électrode 50) et activer les électrodes 48 et 52, afin de pincer le doigt de liquide ; de manière générale, on désactive une des électrodes de dispense sauf celle qui est la plus éloignée du réservoir 51.
    • 5-4. Activer l'électrode réservoir 48 afin de favoriser la coupure. Il en résulte la formation et l'éjection de la nouvelle goutte.
The different sequences can be the following:
  1. 1- All the electrodes are at rest (state 0),
  2. 2- The transfer electrode 44 is placed in state 1: the liquid in the well is brought close to the reservoir electrode 48,
  3. 3- The reservoir electrode 48 is placed in state 1: the liquid fills the space above the reservoir electrode 48,
  4. 4- The transfer electrode 44 is reset to 0. A large drop 51 has been formed ( Figure 4B ) at the reservoir electrode, and this drop is no longer in physical contact with the well.
  5. 5- For each new drop to make we can:
    • 5-1. Disable the tank electrode 48,
    • 5-2. Activate (at least) two dispensing electrodes 50-56,
    • 5-3. Disabling at least one of the dispensing electrodes 50-56 (if only two electrodes: the electrode 50 is deactivated) and activating the electrodes 48 and 52, in order to pinch the liquid finger; in general, one of the dispensing electrodes is deactivated except the one furthest away from the tank 51.
    • 5-4. Activate the tank electrode 48 to promote the cut. This results in the formation and ejection of the new drop.

En réitérant l'étape 5 on peut fabriquer plusieurs gouttes.By repeating step 5, several drops can be made.

Quand l'électrode réservoir est vide, ou n'est plus assez remplie, on peut recommencer un nouveau cycle (étapes 1 à 5) pour repomper le liquide dans le puits 40 et l'amener au niveau de l'électrode réservoir grâce à l'électrode 44 de transfert, etc....When the reservoir electrode is empty, or is no longer sufficiently filled, it is possible to start a new cycle (steps 1 to 5) again to repel the liquid in the well 40 and bring it to the level of the reservoir electrode thanks to the 44 transfer electrode, etc.

Le dispositif comporte au moins deux électrodes de formation, mais d'autres électrodes peuvent être prévues pour la manipulation des gouttes dans le microsystème (électrodes 54, 56 en pointillé sur la figure 4A).The device comprises at least two forming electrodes, but other electrodes may be provided for the manipulation of the drops in the microsystem (electrodes 54, 56 in dotted line on the Figure 4A ).

Le volume du puits est défini par son diamètre (ou section) et par sa hauteur. En particulier la hauteur du puits peut être de l'ordre du mm à quelques millimètres, par exemple comprise entre 1 mm et 10 mm. Ainsi le volume de liquide stocké dans le puits peut être important avec un encombrement minimum (en surface de puce). Ainsi on peut dispenser un grand nombre de gouttes tout en minimisant la surface des électrodes, notamment l'électrode réservoir 48. Par exemple on peut dispenser des gouttes de quelques dizaines de nanolitres à partir d'un réservoir d'une capacité de plusieurs microlitres.The volume of the well is defined by its diameter (or section) and by its height. In particular, the height of the well may be of the order of a millimeter to a few millimeters, for example between 1 mm and 10 mm. Thus the volume of liquid stored in the well can be large with a minimum footprint (chip surface). Thus, it is possible to dispense a large number of drops while minimizing the surface area of the electrodes, in particular the reservoir electrode 48. For example, drops of a few tens of nanoliters can be dispensed from a reservoir with a capacity of several microliters.

Selon une variante illustrée en figure 5A, on peut rajouter des moyens de confinement, par exemple sous la forme de murs 60, pour mieux confiner les liquides. L'espaceur peut être une couche épaisse de résine dont la forme peut être structurée : par exemple en utilisant une couche de résine photosensible (SU8, ordyl ...) et en définissant les motifs par photolithographie. Ainsi il est possible de définir des murs autour de certaines des électrodes. En particulier on réalise un mur avec une ouverture 61 entre l'électrode réservoir 48 et le puits 40).According to a variant illustrated in Figure 5A it is possible to add containment means, for example in the form of walls 60, to better confine the liquids. The spacer can be a thick layer of resin whose shape can be structured: for example by using a layer of photoresist (SU8, ordyl ...) and defining the patterns by photolithography. Thus it is possible to define walls around some of the electrodes. In particular a wall is made with an opening 61 between the reservoir electrode 48 and the well 40).

Ce premier motif permet de s'assurer que le liquide de l'électrode réservoir 48 ne remonte pas vers le puits 40, ce qui s'explique par les forces de capillarité : le rétrécissement agit comme un barrage tant que les surfaces sont non mouillantes c'est à dire tant qu'il n'y a pas d'activation par les électrodes. Les surfaces des murs 60 sont préférentiellement rendues hydrophobes.This first pattern makes it possible to ensure that the liquid of the reservoir electrode 48 does not rise towards the well 40, which is explained by the capillarity forces: the narrowing acts as a dam as long as the surfaces are non-wetting. is as long as there is no activation by the electrodes. The surfaces of the walls 60 are preferably rendered hydrophobic.

Comme illustré sur la figure 5B, on peut aussi confiner l'ensemble de l'électrode réservoir 48 avec des moyens de confinement, encore sous la forme de murs 62, laissant juste une ouverture d'entrée 61 et une ouverture de sortie 63. Ceci permet de maintenir toujours le liquide dans le réservoir 48 même si l'électrode réservoir n'est pas à l'état 1, et de limiter les risques de contamination entre différents réservoirs adjacents.As illustrated on the Figure 5B it is also possible to confine the whole of the reservoir electrode 48 with confinement means, again in the form of walls 62, leaving just an inlet opening 61 and an outlet opening 63. This makes it possible to always maintain the liquid in the reservoir 48 even if the reservoir electrode is not in state 1, and to limit the risks of contamination between different adjacent reservoirs.

Ces murs ou ces moyens de confinement 60, 62 sont vus de dessus sur les figures 5A et 5B, mais sont localisés entre les deux substrats 42, 46 du dispositif.These walls or these confinement means 60, 62 are seen from above on the Figures 5A and 5B but are located between the two substrates 42, 46 of the device.

Selon une autre variante, on peut optimiser la forme de l'électrode réservoir 48 afin de plaquer ou d'attirer constamment le liquide vers les électrodes 50 - 56 de formation de goutte et de toujours permettre l'amorçage du processus de formation du doigt de liquide lors de la dispense de goutte.According to another variant, it is possible to optimize the shape of the reservoir electrode 48 in order to constantly press or attract the liquid towards the drop formation electrodes 50 and 56 and to always allow the initiation of the finger formation process to take place. liquid when dispensing with gout.

On peut, par exemple, comme illustré sur les figures 6A et 6B, utiliser une électrode 48 en forme en peigne ou en ½ étoile afin de garantir un gradient de surface d'électrode. On peut aussi, comme illustré sur les figures 9A et 9B, utiliser une électrode 481 en forme de pointe. En effet, l'électromouillage sur isolant a pour effet d'étaler le liquide au niveau des électrodes activées, ce qui se traduit ici par une position de liquide permettant de maximiser la surface en regard avec l'électrode. Il en résulte un effet de « rassemblement » du liquide à proximité de la première électrode 50 de formation de gouttes.For example, as illustrated in the Figures 6A and 6B , use a 48 electrode comb or ½ star shape to ensure an electrode surface gradient. We can also, as illustrated on the Figures 9A and 9B , use a tip-shaped electrode 481. Indeed, electrowetting on insulation has the effect of spreading the liquid at the activated electrodes, which is reflected here by a liquid position to maximize the surface facing the electrode. This results in a "collecting" effect of the liquid near the first drop forming electrode 50.

Cette amélioration permet aussi de vider complètement le réservoir.This improvement also makes it possible to empty the tank completely.

Notons que les doigts du peigne (figure 6A) ou la demi-étoile (figure 6B) ou la pointe (figures 9A, 9B) peuvent être carrés ou pointues.Note that the fingers of the comb ( Figure 6A ) or the half-star ( Figure 6B ) or the tip ( Figures 9A, 9B ) can be square or pointed.

Dans les différents cas, l'électrode de transfert 44 a une forme adaptée pour amener le liquide à l'électrode réservoir 48.In the various cases, the transfer electrode 44 has a shape adapted to bring the liquid to the reservoir electrode 48.

Cette variante est présentée sur les figures 6A et 6B avec les moyens de confinement 62 définissant une cavité mais peut être mise en oeuvre sans ces moyens, ou simplement avec la paroi 60 de la figure 5A.This variant is presented on Figures 6A and 6B with the confinement means 62 defining a cavity but can be implemented without these means, or simply with the wall 60 of the Figure 5A .

Selon encore une autre variante, qui peut être combinée avec l'une ou l'autre des variantes précédentes, on peut aussi améliorer la reproductibilité du volume des gouttes en optimisant la forme des électrodes 50-56 de formation de gouttes, comme illustré sur les figures 7A-7C.According to yet another variant, which can be combined with one or the other of the preceding variants, it is also possible to improve the reproducibility of the volume of the drops by optimizing the shape of the drop formation electrodes 50-56, as illustrated in FIGS. Figures 7A-7C .

Pendant la phase de coupure (figure 7A) on coupe le doigt pour former une nouvelle goutte. Au moment de la coupure, la future goutte a une forme en pointe d'un coté, et est plutôt sphérique ou anguleuse de l'autre (figure 7B). La forme sphérique ou anguleuse s'explique par la concurrence entre les forces de capillarité et l'effet de l'électromouillage sur une électrode carrée. Au final le volume de la goutte dépend beaucoup des valeurs de la tension de surface et de la valeur de la tension appliquée aux électrodes.During the cut-off phase ( Figure 7A ) the finger is cut to form a new drop. At the moment of the cut, the future drop has a pointed shape on one side, and is rather spherical or angular on the other ( Figure 7B ). The spherical or angular shape is explained by the competition between capillary forces and the effect of electrowetting on a square electrode. In the end, the volume of the drop depends very much on the values of the surface tension and the value of the voltage applied to the electrodes.

D'autre part, pendant la coupure, le doigt prend une forme en col de cygne.On the other hand, during the cut, the finger takes a shape gooseneck.

Cette géométrie en col de cygne peut aussi dépendre d'un certain nombre de paramètre comme la tension de surface, les valeurs de la tension appliquée sur les électrodes, ainsi que de la géométrie de l'électrode de coupure.This gooseneck geometry can also depend on a certain number of parameters such as the surface tension, the values of the voltage applied to the electrodes, as well as the geometry of the cutoff electrode.

Il en résulte une dépendance du volume des gouttes par rapport à la nature des liquides et aux paramètres d'utilisation de la puce.This results in a dependence of the volume of the drops with respect to the nature of the liquids and the parameters of use of the chip.

Pour remédier à ce problème, on peut définir une électrode de formation de goutte par une forme limitant les effets d'angle d'un côté, et en contrôlant la forme du col de cygne. Ceci est obtenu en réalisant une électrode, par exemple l'électrode 54, en forme de « goutte» : elle est ronde d'un coté 54-1 et pointue de l'autre côté 54-2, comme illustré sur la figure 7A.To overcome this problem, a drop forming electrode can be defined by a shape limiting angle effects on one side, and controlling the shape of the gooseneck. This is obtained by producing an electrode, for example the electrode 54, in the form of a "drop": it is round on one side 54-1 and pointed on the other side 54-2, as shown in FIG. Figure 7A .

Un autre exemple d'application est illustré sur les figures 8A et 8B, schématiquement en vue de dessus. Sur ces figures, comme sur les figures 4A-7A, le substrat supérieur, assurant le confinement et dans lequel le puits est formé, n'est pas représenté. Seule la répartition des électrodes de transfert, des électrodes réservoir et des électrodes de formation de gouttes est représentée.Another example of an application is illustrated on the Figures 8A and 8B , schematically in top view. In these figures, as in Figures 4A-7A , the upper substrate, providing confinement and in which the well is formed, is not shown. Only the distribution of the transfer electrodes, the reservoir electrodes and the drop forming electrodes is represented.

Sur la figure 8A, un puits 100 alimente plusieurs électrodes réservoir 104, 106, 108, 110 suivant l'invention, par l'intermédiaire d'électrodes de transfert 101, 103, 105, 107. A la sortie de chaque électrode réservoir sont disposées des électrodes de formation de gouttes globalement désignées par les références 154, 156, 158, 160. Chaque série d'électrodes de formation est associée à une électrode réservoir. Dans cet exemple, les réservoirs 104, 106, 108, 110 sont disposés en série à partir du puits et les gouttes sont formées en parallèle à partir de chaque réservoir.On the figure 8A , a well 100 feeds several reservoir electrodes 104, 106, 108, 110 according to the invention, via transfer electrodes 101, 103, 105, 107. At the outlet of each reservoir electrode are arranged formation electrodes droplets generally designated by references 154, 156, 158, 160. Each series of forming electrodes is associated with a reservoir electrode. In this example, the tanks 104, 106, 108, 110 are arranged in series from the well and the drops are formed in parallel from each tank.

Sur la figure 8B, un puits 200 alimente en parallèle plusieurs électrodes réservoir 204, 206, 208 suivant l'invention, par l'intermédiaire d'électrodes de transfert 201, 203, 205. A la sortie de chaque électrode réservoir sont disposées des électrodes de formation de gouttes globalement désignées par les références 254, 256, 258. Là encore, chaque série d'électrodes de formation est associée à une électrode réservoir. Dans cet exemple, les réservoirs 204, 206, 208 sont disposés en parallèle par rapport au puits, et les gouttes sont formées en parallèle à partir de chaque réservoir.On the Figure 8B , a well 200 supplies in parallel a plurality of reservoir electrodes 204, 206, 208 according to the invention, via transfer electrodes 201, 203, 205. At the outlet of each reservoir electrode are arranged drop forming electrodes globally designated by references 254, 256, 258. Again, each series of formation electrodes is associated with a reservoir electrode. In this example, the tanks 204, 206, 208 are arranged in parallel with the well, and the drops are formed in parallel from each tank.

Là encore, le pilotage électrique des différentes électrodes peut être contrôlé par un automate électrique ou un PC, qui pilote des relais affectés à chacune des électrodes.Again, the electrical control of the different electrodes can be controlled by a electric controller or a PC, which drives relays assigned to each of the electrodes.

Ces modes de réalisation des figures 8A et 8B peuvent être combinés avec l'un ou plusieurs des modes de réalisation des figures 5A-7C. Une ou plusieurs des électrodes réservoir peut être munie de moyens de confinement, comme sur les figures 5A et 5B, et/ou avoir une forme telle qu'illustré sur les figures 6A-6B, tandis qu'une ou plusieurs des électrodes de formation de gouttes peut avoir une forme telle qu'illustré sur la figure 7A.These embodiments of Figures 8A and 8B can be combined with one or more of the embodiments of the Figures 5A-7C . One or more of the reservoir electrodes may be provided with means of confinement, as on the Figures 5A and 5B , and / or have a shape as illustrated on the Figures 6A-6B , while one or more of the drop forming electrodes may have a shape as illustrated on the Figure 7A .

Dans l'un ou l'autre substrat, les électrodes enterrées sont obtenues par dépôt, puis gravure d'une fine couche d'un métal choisi parmi Au, Al, Ito, Pt, Cu, Cr, ... grâce aux microtechnologies classiques de la microélectronique. L'épaisseur des électrodes est de quelques dizaines de nm à quelques µm, par exemple comprise entre 10 nm et 1 µm. La largeur du motif est de quelques µm à quelques mm (électrodes planes) pour les électrodes 50-56 et l'électrode de transfert 44.In one or the other substrate, the buried electrodes are obtained by depositing and then etching a thin layer of a metal chosen from Au, Al, Ito, Pt, Cu, Cr, ... by means of conventional microtechnologies microelectronics. The thickness of the electrodes is from a few tens of nm to a few microns, for example between 10 nm and 1 μm. The width of the pattern is from a few μm to a few mm (flat electrodes) for the electrodes 50-56 and the transfer electrode 44.

Les deux substrats 42, 46 sont typiquement distants d'une distance comprise entre, par exemple, 10 µm et 100 µm ou 500 µm.The two substrates 42, 46 are typically spaced apart by a distance of, for example, 10 μm and 100 μm or 500 μm.

Quel que soit le mode de réalisation considéré, une goutte éjectée de liquide 22 aura un volume compris entre, par exemple, quelques picolitres et quelques microlitres, par exemple entre 1 pl ou 10 pl et 5 µl ou 10 µl.Whatever the embodiment considered, a drop ejected liquid 22 will have a volume between, for example, a few picoliters and a few microliters, for example between 1 pl or 10 pl and 5 .mu.l or 10 .mu.l.

En outre chacune des électrodes 50-56, 150, 152, 154, 250, 252, 254 a par exemple une surface de l'ordre de quelques dizaines de µm2 (par exemple 10 µm2) jusqu'à 1 mm2, selon la taille des gouttes à transporter, l'espacement entre électrodes voisines étant par exemple compris entre 1 µm et 10 µm.In addition, each of the electrodes 50-56, 150, 152, 154, 250, 252, 254 has, for example, a the order of a few tens of μm 2 (for example 10 μm 2 ) up to 1 mm 2 , depending on the size of the drops to be transported, the spacing between adjacent electrodes being for example between 1 micron and 10 microns.

La structuration des électrodes peut être obtenue par des méthodes classiques des microtechnologies, par exemple par photolithographie. Les électrodes sont par exemple réalisées par dépôt d'une couche métallique (Au, Al, ITO, Pt, Cr, Cu, ...) par photolithographie.The structuring of the electrodes can be obtained by conventional microtechnology methods, for example by photolithography. The electrodes are for example made by depositing a metal layer (Au, Al, ITO, Pt, Cr, Cu, ...) by photolithography.

Le substrat est ensuite recouvert d'une couche diélectrique en Si3N4, SiO2, ... Enfin, un dépôt d'une couche hydrophobe est effectué, comme par exemple un dépôt de Téflon réalisé à la tournette.The substrate is then covered with a dielectric layer of Si 3 N 4 , SiO 2 , ... Finally, a deposit of a hydrophobic layer is performed, such as a teflon deposit made by spinning.

Des procédés de réalisation de puces incorporant un dispositif selon l'invention peuvent être directement dérivés des procédés décrits dans le document FR-2 841 063 .Methods for producing chips incorporating a device according to the invention may be directly derived from the methods described in the document FR-2 841 063 .

Des conducteurs, et notamment des caténaires, enterrés peuvent être réalisés par dépôt d'une couche conductrice et gravure de cette couche suivant le motif approprié de conducteurs, avant dépôt de la couche hydrophobe.Conductors, and in particular buried catenaries, may be made by depositing a conductive layer and etching this layer in the appropriate pattern of conductors, before deposition of the hydrophobic layer.

En particulier, ce sera le cas pour le capot supérieur 42, dans lequel une contre-électrode peut être réalisée.In particular, this will be the case for the top cover 42, in which a counter electrode can be made.

Chacune des différentes électrodes est reliée à un moyen formant relais pour la porter à un potentiel défini par une source de tension. L'ensemble est commandé par un automate électrique ou un PC.Each of the different electrodes is connected to a relay means to bring it to a potential defined by a voltage source. The whole is controlled by an electric automaton or a PC.

Des exemples de structures de puce selon l'invention sont donnés sur les figures 9A et 9B.Examples of chip structures according to the invention are given on the Figures 9A and 9B .

Selon un exemple de réalisation, les puces mesurent 13mm par 13mm, et les électrodes de déplacement de gouttes mesurent 800µm par 800µm.According to an exemplary embodiment, the chips measure 13mm by 13mm, and the drop displacement electrodes measure 800μm per 800μm.

Les disques hachurés 350, 352, 354, 356, 358 (figure 9A) 351, 353, 355 (figure 9B) représentent l'emplacement des trous dans le capot (les puits). Le disque 360 représente une zone poubelle.The hatched discs 350, 352, 354, 356, 358 ( Figure 9A ) 351, 353, 355 ( Figure 9B ) represent the location of the holes in the hood (sinks). The disk 360 represents a trash zone.

Dans la partie inférieure de la puce on distingue un réservoir principal 400 - conformément à l'invention - débouchant sur une première ligne d'électrode 255, dont l'extrémité gauche débouche vers la zone poubelle 360. Par cette ligne, des gouttes de liquides peuvent être prélevées et transportée par électromouillage depuis le réservoir principal 400.In the lower part of the chip there is a main tank 400 - according to the invention - opening on a first electrode line 255, whose left end opens to the trash zone 360. Through this line, drops of liquids can be removed and transported by electrowetting from the main tank 400.

Ainsi on peut purger facilement le réservoir 400, en le vidant entièrement et directement vers la poubelle 360. Les gouttes formées à partir du réservoir 400 peuvent, par ailleurs, être envoyées vers la boucle 402 sur laquelle elles pourront être déplacées par électromouilllage. Autour de cette boucle est disposé un ensemble de réservoirs secondaires 350, 352, 354, 356 (figure 9A) ou 351, 353, 355 (figure 9B) disposés en parallèle.Thus, it is possible to purge the tank 400 easily, emptying it completely and directly to the trash can 360. The drops formed from the tank 400 can, moreover, be sent to the loop 402 on which they can be moved by electrowiring. Around this loop is a set of secondary tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 ( Figure 9A ) or 351, 353, 355 ( Figure 9B ) arranged in parallel.

Les figures 9A et 9B sont deux structures de puces montrant des formes et des dispositions différentes des réservoirs 350, 352, 354, 356 et 351, 353, 355. Ainsi la puce de la figure 9A possède 4 réservoirs secondaires 350, 352, 354, 356 ouverts sur l'extérieur par des puits. La puce de la figure 9B comporte 3 réservoirs secondaires 351, 353, 355 ouverts sur l'extérieur par des puits.The Figures 9A and 9B are two chip structures showing different shapes and arrangements of the tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 and 351, 353, 355. Thus the chip of the Figure 9A has 4 secondary tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 open on the outside by wells. The chip of the Figure 9B has 3 secondary tanks 351, 353, 355 open on the outside by wells.

A chaque réservoir est associé un ensemble d'électrodes 360, 362, 364, 366 et 361, 363 qui permettent d'amener une ou plusieurs gouttes depuis le réservoir correspondant vers le chemin 402. De même un tronçon 257 formé lui aussi d'électrodes permet de relier le chemin 255 et la boucle 402.Each reservoir is associated with a set of electrodes 360, 362, 364, 366 and 361, 363 which make it possible to bring one or more drops from the corresponding reservoir to the path 402. Similarly, a section 257 also formed of electrodes allows to link the path 255 and the loop 402.

Les références 410, 411 représentent des zones ou plots d'adressage des électrodes qui constituent les chemins 255, 402 et des électrodes situées en sortie des différents réservoirs. Ces zones ou plots peuvent être elle - mêmes commandées par des moyens électroniques ou informatiques.The references 410, 411 represent zones or addressing pads of the electrodes which constitute the paths 255, 402 and electrodes located at the outlet of the different reservoirs. These zones or pads may themselves be controlled by electronic or computer means.

Les réservoirs sont configurés et utilisés conformément à l'invention : ils comportent une série d'électrodes permettant de confiner un volume de liquide au niveau d'une électrode réservoir à partir d'un puits pour permettre la dispense reproductible des gouttes. De plus, les réservoirs comportent des moyens de confinement 480, 481 (électrodes réservoir) en étoile ou en pointe, disposés, conformément à l'invention, en aval des électrodes de transfert à partir du réservoir.The tanks are configured and used according to the invention: they comprise a series of electrodes for confining a volume of liquid at a reservoir electrode from a well to allow reproducible dispensing drops. In addition, the tanks comprise containment means 480, 481 (tank electrodes) star or tip, arranged, according to the invention, downstream of the transfer electrodes from the tank.

Ces structures permettent de dispenser des gouttes de solution aqueuse avec des grandes précisions en volume de liquide.These structures make it possible to dispense drops of aqueous solution with great precision in volume of liquid.

Des CV (Cv= 2 x écart type/moyenne x100) inférieurs à 3% sont mesurés.CVs (Cv = 2 x standard deviation x100) of less than 3% are measured.

Un procédé de dispense de gouttes selon l'invention peut mettre en oeuvre un dispositif tel que décrit en liaison avec les figures 9A et 9B.A drop dispensing method according to the invention can implement a device as described in connection with the Figures 9A and 9B .

Il est possible de produire une goutte à partir du réservoir principal 400, de la faire se déplacer sur le trajet 402, sur lequel elle sera mélangée avec une ou plusieurs gouttes d'un ou de plusieurs des réservoirs 350, 352, 354, 356 (figure 9A) ou 351, 353, 355 (figure 9B).It is possible to produce a drop from the main tank 400, to move it on the path 402, on which it will be mixed with one or more drops of one or more of the tanks 350, 352, 354, 356 ( Figure 9A ) or 351, 353, 355 ( Figure 9B ).

Claims (24)

  1. A liquid dispensing device that includes first and second substrates (46, 42), where the first substrate (42) is equipped with an opening (40) for the introduction of a fluid, the second substrate (46) is equipped with a multiplicity of electrodes that include:
    - at least one electrode (44), called the transfer electrode, located at least partially opposite to the opening (40),
    - at least two drop-forming electrodes (50, 52),
    - and at least one electrode (48), known as the reservoir electrode, disposed between the transfer electrode (44) and the drop-forming electrodes (50, 52), and with an area that is at least equal to three times the area of each drop-forming electrode, where this reservoir electrode can be activated without activation of the transfer electrode, and vice versa.
  2. A device according to claim 1, that also includes at least one second reservoir electrode (104, 106, 108, 110), and at least one second transfer electrode (101, 103, 105, 107) located between, or associated with, two neighbouring reservoir electrodes, with at least two drop forming electrodes (154, 156, 158, 160) being associated with each reservoir electrode.
  3. A device according to claim 1, that also includes at least one second reservoir electrode (204, 206, 208), and at least one second transfer electrode (201, 203, 205) located at least partially opposite to the opening (40) and at least drop-forming electrodes (254, 256, 258) that are associated with the second reservoir electrode.
  4. A device according to either of claims 2 or 3, with at least one second reservoir electrode having an area that is at least equal to three times the area of each drop-forming electrode of the drop-forming electrodes that are associated with it.
  5. A device according to one of claims 1 to 4, with at least one of the reservoir electrodes (48) having an area that is at least equal to ten times the area of each drop-forming electrode of the drop-forming electrodes that are associated with it.
  6. A device according to one of claims 1 to 5, with at least one of the reservoir electrodes having a comb or pointed shape.
  7. A device according to claim 6, with the comb having tapered teeth on the side of the transfer electrode, or the point being tapered on the side of the transfer electrode.
  8. A device according to one of claims 1 to 7, with at least one of the reservoir electrodes being star shaped.
  9. A device according to one of claims 1 to 8, that includes a containment wall (60) between at least one reservoir electrode and the opening (40).
  10. A device according to one of claims 1 to 9, that includes at least one containment wall (62) around at least one reservoir electrode.
  11. A device according to one of claims 1 to 10, with at least one of the drop-forming electrodes having a rounded shape on one side and pointed on the other.
  12. A device according to one of claims 1 to 11, with the first substrate including conducting means (47).
  13. A device according to one of the claims 1 to 12, with the first substrate (42) having a hydrophobic surface.
  14. A device according to one of claims 1 to 13, with the second substrate (42) having a hydrophobic surface (8).
  15. A device according to claim 14, with the second substrate (42) having a dielectric layer under the hydrophobic surface (8).
  16. A device according to one of claims 1 to 15, that also includes means for the movement of drops by electro-wetting, arranged in the form of a loop (402).
  17. A device according to claim 16, that also includes one or more secondary reservoirs (350, 352, 354, 356, 358, 351, 353, 355) arranged around the loop (402).
  18. A device according to claim 17, with each secondary reservoir being connected to the loop (402) by one or more transfer electrodes (360, 361, 362, 363, 364, 366).
  19. A process for the formation of a liquid reservoir (51), from a liquid well (40), including:
    - firstly transfer of the liquid from the well (40) to an electrode (48) called the reservoir electrode, with the aid of an electrode called the transfer electrode (44) located at least partially opposite to the well (40), the reservoir electrode being disposed between the transfer electrode (44) and the drop-forming electrodes (50, 52), and having an area that is at least equal to three times the area of each drop-forming electrode,
    - de-activation of the transfer electrode (44), rendering the pressure in the liquid reservoir independent of the pressure of the liquid in the well.
  20. A liquid drop dispensing process that includes a process for the formation of a liquid reservoir according to claim 19, and the formation of a drop of liquid by the activation of at least n drop-forming electrodes (50, 52), where n ≥ 2, and then de-activation of at least one of these electrodes from among the n-1 electrodes that are closest to the reservoir electrode, in order to pinch off a liquid finger.
  21. A liquid drop dispensing process that uses a device according to one of claim 1 to 18, the formation of a liquid reservoir (51) opposite to the reservoir electrode (48), and the ejection of a drop of liquid by activation of n drop-forming electrodes, where n ≥ 2, and then de-activation of at least one of these electrodes from among the n-1 electrodes that are closest to the reservoir electrode.
  22. A liquid drop dispensing process that employs a device according to one of claims 16 to 18.
  23. A process according to claim 22, in which a formed drop is transported along a trajectory in the shape of a loop (402).
  24. A process according to claim 23, in which a formed drop is mixed with one or more drops from reservoirs arranged around the loop (402).
EP05848241A 2004-12-23 2005-12-22 Drop dispenser device Active EP1827694B1 (en)

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FR0453211A FR2879946B1 (en) 2004-12-23 2004-12-23 DISPENSER DEVICE FOR DROPS
PCT/FR2005/051131 WO2006070162A1 (en) 2004-12-23 2005-12-22 Drop dispenser device

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EP1827694B1 true EP1827694B1 (en) 2013-02-20

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