Optimization of elstomeric micro-fluidic valve dimensions using non-linear finite element methods
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1260/175095409788837847Abstract
We use a nonlinear finite element (FE) method model to compare, optimize and determine the limits for useful geometries of microfluidic valves in elastomer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Simulations have been performed with the aim of finding the optimal shape, size and location of pressurization that minimizes the pressure required to operate the valve. One important constraint governing the design parameters is that the stresses should be within elastic limits, so that the component remains safe from any type of structural failure. To obtain reliable results, non-linear stress analysis was performed using the Mooney-Rivlin 9 parameter approximation which is based on the Hyper Elastic Material Model. A 20 noded brick element was used for the development of FE model. Mesh sensitivity analysis was also performed to assess the quality of the results. The simulations were performed with commercially available FE modeling software, developed by ANSYS Inc. to determine the effect of varying different geometric parameters on the performance of micro-fluidic valves. The aim of this work is to determine the geometry of the channel crosssection that would result in the largest deflection for the least applied pressure, i.e. to minimize the pressure needed to operate the valve.
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Copyright (c) 2009 H Khawaja, I Raouf, K Parvez, A Scherer
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