Engineering
Centrifugal Microfluidics — Disc Geometry
Rotational frequency drives siphon valve geometry for sequential reagent release.
Overview
The BiQadx EtherX diagnostic discs utilize centrifugal forces to manipulate nanoliter fluid volumes. This approach eliminates the need for complex, failure-prone active micro-pumps and pneumatic tethers, embedding all fluidic logic directly into the disc substrate.
Architecture & Design
Fluidic routing is governed by the rotational frequency. As the disc spins, centrifugal force pushes the fluid radially outward. Capillary burst valves and siphon structures are engineered to hold fluid at specific radii until a critical rotational speed is reached, allowing precise, RPM-dependent gating of sequential reagent mixing and incubation phases.
Technical Specifications
Drive Mechanism
Brushless DC Motor
Max Rotational Speed
6,000 RPM
Dead Volume
< 2.0 µL per chamber
Sequential Stages
Up to 12 serial steps