Valves
Tensentric instruments provide efficient and hands-off analysis of lab samples, replacing complex, time-consuming and potentially error-prone steps crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring health and guiding treatment decisions. Our systems incorporate the functionalities of a biochemical laboratory. Processes such as the mixing of liquids, DNA synthesis, bioseparation, aliquoting, amplification of biomolecules, or detection of specific substances by optical or electrochemical methods can be integrated in a cartridge. Our systems include components such as filters, pumps, valves, mixers, and sensors. Cartridges can isolate and manage internal substances for safe disposal after use, including sensitive lyophilized reagents, substances needing protection from environmental exposure, hazardous chemicals, or biological samples, while removing the possibility of cross-contamination. These systems can perform complex processes in point-of-care environments, saving time and cost by eliminating the need for specialized labs and highly trained technicians and by streamlining tedious multi-stepped processes that often require expensive dedicated lab equipment.
Valves provide a means for directing flow throughout a cartridge. By coordinating the opening and closing of valves, air and fluid can be directed along chosen fluid channels. Valving can be used to knife off a bolus of fluid with air such that fluid within a channel is metered to a prescribed volume.
Pinch Valve
A pinch valve offers a simple means of stopping flow. It consists of a flexible elastomeric layer that is compressed against a rigid surface to pinch off a fluid channel. An instrument–driven piston presses the fluid channel closed. Pistons may be driven by pneumatic, motorized, or solenoid actuators. Tensentric has designed valves that eliminate fluid capture and minimize fluid displacement during closing.
Check Valves
Tensentric has developed custom internal check valves that allow fluid to flow in a single direction and prevent the backflow of fluids. A check valve can be placed upstream and downstream of a piston or dome pump to pump fluid in the downstream-only direction.
Some cartridges have included off-the-shelf duckbill or umbrella valves for a low-cost, easily integrated solution.
Umbrella Valve Duckbill Valve
