Optimization of elstomeric micro-fluidic valve dimensions using non-linear finite element methods

Abstract

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.

Multiphysics analysis of contact pressure profile of airless tires as compared to conventional tires

“…Similar studies have been performed in ANSYS® Workbench to analyze the materials that show the most promising results for aquaculture purposes, to simulate micro vibrations on a nontrivial torsionally oscillating structure and to optimize elastomeric micro-fluidic valve dimensions [27][28] [29].…”

Multiphysics Analysis of Contact Pressure Profile of Airless tires as compared to Conventional Tires

“…Similar studies have been performed in ANSYS® Workbench to analyze the materials that show the most promising results for aquaculture purposes, to simulate micro vibrations on a nontrivial torsionally oscillating structure and to optimize elastomeric micro-fluidic valve dimensions [27][28] [29]. Figure 6: A schematic model displaying the fixed constraint "A" at the bottom of the ground block, uniform inflation pressure "B" and applied internal pressure on pneumatic tire "C".…”

Applicability extent of 2-D heat equation for numerical analysis of a multiphysics problem

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. In order to solve such numerical problems, they need to be discretized in nodes and elements [11][12][13].…”