WO2021077184A1 - Microfluidic multiprocessor device and use thereof - Google Patents
Microfluidic multiprocessor device and use thereof Download PDFInfo
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- WO2021077184A1 WO2021077184A1 PCT/BR2020/050406 BR2020050406W WO2021077184A1 WO 2021077184 A1 WO2021077184 A1 WO 2021077184A1 BR 2020050406 W BR2020050406 W BR 2020050406W WO 2021077184 A1 WO2021077184 A1 WO 2021077184A1
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- microfluidic
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F33/00—Other mixers; Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
- B01F33/80—Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F33/00—Other mixers; Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
- B01F33/30—Micromixers
- B01F33/301—Micromixers using specific means for arranging the streams to be mixed, e.g. channel geometries or dispositions
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
- B01F2101/21—Mixing of ingredients for cosmetic or perfume compositions
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
- B01F25/40—Static mixers
- B01F25/42—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions
- B01F25/43—Mixing tubes, e.g. wherein the material is moved in a radial or partly reversed direction
- B01F25/433—Mixing tubes wherein the shape of the tube influences the mixing, e.g. mixing tubes with varying cross-section or provided with inwardly extending profiles
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
- B01F25/40—Static mixers
- B01F25/42—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions
- B01F25/43—Mixing tubes, e.g. wherein the material is moved in a radial or partly reversed direction
- B01F25/433—Mixing tubes wherein the shape of the tube influences the mixing, e.g. mixing tubes with varying cross-section or provided with inwardly extending profiles
- B01F25/4331—Mixers with bended, curved, coiled, wounded mixing tubes or comprising elements for bending the flow
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/80—Forming a predetermined ratio of the substances to be mixed
Definitions
- the present invention is inserted in the sector of efficient mixtures of fluids, in particular personal hygiene, perfumery, cosmetics and microfluidics to produce personal hygiene products, perfumery, cosmetics, including personalized products in which the composition of ingredients and / or shade ideal and / or desired by the consumer. More specifically, the invention relates to a system that is formed by a microfluidic multiprocessor, which is composed of sets with a product formulation dispensing and recirculation process that pass through a structured ceramic microfluidic circuit to generate the product mix, thus generating products in a personalized way.
- This microfluidic multiprocessor for mixing cosmetic products is reusable, easy to operate and airtight.
- creams and solutions can be formulated specifically for the type of skin or hair in addition to the desired treatment.
- toning products such as cosmetics, concealers and sunscreens stand out as products that have a greater relationship with skin tone.
- cosmetic bases should be produced in colors that can pigment all skin tones, with lighter skin tones being pigmented by 7 to 8 colors of facial bases, while darker skin tones are pigmented in at least 10 to 12 base colors in view of the wide range of skin tones.
- microfluidics is a technology that makes it possible to apply the principles of fast and effective processing, showing its potential for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
- Microfluidics originated from the need to improve analytical methods, generating faster and more reliable results. Since then, microfluidics has contributed to technological innovations with potential industrial applications in view of the miniaturization of processes that can be precisely controlled and carried out with less operational time, when compared with conventional technologies.
- microfluidic circuits can be built with elastomeric materials, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and also in green ceramics (LTCC, Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic), the latter presenting as a differential the possibility of building geometries microchannels in three-dimensional structures and the resistance of the ceramic material allows employing high flow rates, withstanding high temperatures and pressures, being reusable and inert to chemical solvents, which makes it attractive for industrial applications.
- PDMS polydimethylsiloxane
- PMMA polymethylmethacrylate
- LTCC Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic
- Microfluidic circuits can be configured in microchannels that allow the generation of drops, micro and nanoparticles. There are microchannel geometries that have the ability to form concentration gradients both diffusive and convective, and others that can generate the mix of solutions in microchannels using passive or active systems with the same reproducibility as a conventional process. This diversity of microfluidic systems models leads to a wide range of applications in chemical industries, such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
- microfluidics can be used as a technology to generate the mixture of ingredients that will result in a homogeneous cosmetic product and the shade desired by the consumer.
- the micro-mixer microfluidic circuit can leverage the cosmetic industry bringing innovations in the product production process in a personalized way or even the production of individual batches for screening new products in the factory.
- microfluidic circuits are structured for emulsion tests and particle formation and therefore present some critical points / technical problems / limitations, among which the following stand out: the inability to generate fluid mixes, even with viscosities above 2000 CP, does not withstand high pressures and temperatures, is not reusable and is not used for the production of cosmetic products.
- the document WO201862970 A1 deals with an integrated dispenser system with microfluidic circuit for the preparation of cosmetic composition by means of instant emulsification produced by microfluidic microchannels. Unlike this patent document, the present invention describes a microfluidic multiprocessor for mixing cosmetic products in a continuous flow and allowing the formulation of customized products.
- Document KR20150070920 A is a method of producing lipid microgel vesicles by means of a microfluidic system double emulsion. These vesicles can be applied in cosmetic composition to reduce evaporation and thus improve moisture retention in the cosmetic composition.
- the present invention differs from patent document KR20150070920 A in that it is a microfluidic circuit applied for mixing miscible fluid processes and not for forming emulsions and / or microparticles.
- Document KR20180110257 A is an apparatus for unloading personalized cosmetic products according to the information given by the consumer.
- the differential of the invention of the proposed microfluidic micro mixer circuit is the use of microfluidic circuit to promote the mixing of cosmetic products, having a fast and efficient fluid mixing process.
- Document US2003 / 0069667 A1 deals with a system for dispensing personalized cosmetic formulations.
- this technology presents a microprocessor control system and fluid dispenser with mixer, the present innovation has as a differential the use of a dispensing system based on dosing pumps and a recirculation system integrated to a microfluidic circuit that promotes a more efficient mixing of cosmetic products.
- Document KR20050033794 A presents a system for mixing liquids.
- the invention comprises reservoirs and liquid pumping systems, which are mixed in microfluidic microchannels by diffusion.
- the present innovation differs from this technology mainly because it is a microfluidic system with structured channels to generate mixture of fluids, including high viscosity, through chaotic advection.
- the document US9007588B1 presents an equipment for the production of cosmetic products, having integrated an instrument for measuring texture and skin tone of the user for the formulation of a personalized cosmetic product by means of mechanical mixing and a dispenser that uses peristaltic pumps.
- the present invention differs from document US9007588B1 mainly because it is a microfluidic mixing system, applied even for high viscosity fluids, to have a dispensing and recirculation process that increase the reproducibility and mixing efficiency for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
- the invention describes a structured microfluidic micro-mixer circuit for the generation of efficient mixtures of fluids, in particular cosmetic products.
- the invention refers to a microfluidic micro-mixer (B4) integrated with a recirculation circuit (B) for cosmetic products, in which the complete set guarantees the effective mixing of cosmetic products.
- microfluidic multiprocessor refers to the complete mixing and recirculation process, including the microfluidic micro-mixer system.
- subsystem I refers to the set that makes up the dosage stage for cosmetic products (A).
- subsystem II indicates the set that makes up the stage of recirculation of cosmetic products through the microfluidic system (B).
- micro mixer refers to the type of microfluidic system structured to perform the function of mixing fluids within the microchannels (B4).
- this invention consists of a concept of mixing fluids by microfluidic circuit through a process of fluid dispensing / dosing (A) and recirculation integrated into the system (B), called “microfluidic multiprocessor” (Figure 1), which comprises:
- subsystem I refers to the process of dispensing / dosing fluids (A), containing: a mounting bracket; at least one dispensing pump for each fluid (A1), preferably a solenoid type pump; control electronics and dedicated software to perform the dispensing / dosing of the fluid volumes by the pumps (C); control computer; at least one reservoir for stocking each fluid (A2 - A3); pipes for transporting fluids in the stock reservoirs for the pumps (A5) and a reservoir for dispensing / recirculating the fluids (A6)
- subsystem II refers to the recirculation set (B), containing: a reservoir for dispensing / recirculating fluids (A6); a recirculation pump (B2), preferably a gear-type pump; connection pipes from the dispensing / recirculation reservoir to the pump (B2); pressure sensor (B3); Mounting bracket; microfluidic circuit (B4); piping for transporting fluids from the pump to the microfluidic circuit; pipes for transporting the fluids that circulate through the microfluidic circuit to the dispensing / recirculation reservoir (B1) containing at least one three-way valve (B4); outlet tubing connected to one of the valve paths for dispensing fluids in the reservoir of the formulated cosmetic product.
- At least one mounting bracket serves to fix the dispensing pumps and can be made with materials in aluminum, stainless steel, acrylic or any other material that supports the pumps, being manufactured, preferably by machining, with acrylic, aluminum or stainless steel materials;
- - pumps for dispensing / dosing fluids which can be of the solenoid, gear, diaphragm and / or peristaltic type, preferably solenoid type pumps and the pump for fluid recirculation by the microfluidic multiprocessor can be of the solenoid, gear, diaphragm and / type or peristaltic, preferably the type of gears, not limited to just this form of pumping;
- microfluidic circuit preferably made of stainless steel, making it possible to manufacture in other materials that provide resistance and have connections for the microfluidic circuit, having at least one inlet and one outlet that connects to the microfluidic circuit.
- this invention relates to a microfluidic mixer system (Figure 2), which comprises:
- - main body of the micro-mixer structured with channels that have at least one division and junction of the channels in a sequential manner (2A), the which are repeated periodically at least once horizontally and / or vertically to have a bi-directional vertical direction of the microfluidic circuit, preferably vertical and horizontal directions creating three-dimensional channel structures, preferably containing seven units of these channel structures to promote fluid mixing;
- - microchannel network structure which distributes fluids to at least two units in parallel of micro mixers, having at least one main inlet and one outlet; being that the microchannels must be constructed with materials resistant to pressure and temperature to allow the preferential configuration of three-dimensional geometries, preferably using LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramics) and / or HTCC (High temperature co-fired ceramics) green ceramic sheets
- the invention describes the use of the microfluidic multiprocessor to mix fluids, including cosmetic products (3-4).
- the fluids that can be used in the microfluidic circuit include cosmetic products, such as cosmetic bases, moisturizers, creams, makeup pigments, enamels or paints. Fluids can still be used for applications in the pharmaceutical, food and paint industries.
- Figure 1 shows the schematic drawing of the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit, which consists of dispensing / dosing pumps (A); recirculation / dispensing reservoir (A6); pump for recirculation (B2); pressure sensor (B3); microfluidic circuit (B4); three-way valve (A4-B5); final product reservoir (B6).
- Figures 2A and 2B are schematic drawings representing the mixer-type microfluidic circuit, where (2A) is the unit of microchannel geometry that uses three-dimensional structures with at least two divisions and channel junctions and (2B) is the configuration of the microfluidic circuit with parallel or two-dimensional configuration, configuring a channel distribution network for at least two units of the micro mixer in parallel.
- Figure 3 is a graph showing the evaluation of the functionality of the microfluidic multiprocessor using colorimetry techniques to evaluate the mixing effect by the color difference of samples of cosmetic products in light, medium and dark colors with the respective standards.
- the Delta E method (AEcmc) was used as a basis for this.
- Figure 4 is a graph showing the evaluation of the functionality of the microfluidic multiprocessor using colorimetry techniques to evaluate the mixing effect by the color difference of samples of cosmetic products in light, medium and dark colors (Delta E method (AEcmc )) where values below 0.5 indicate a better mixing response.
- AEcmc Delta E method
- Figures 5A through 5I represent the evaluation of the color difference by visual analysis of the mixing process, in which Figures A to Fig. Fl show the visual evaluation of the mixing capacity of the microfluidic multiprocessor using light tinted cosmetic products , medium and dark; and Fig. 5I shows the evaluation made by the Delta E method in which the evaluation is made from the measurement of the color distance of the shades of cosmetic bases produced in the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit with their respective standards.
- the invention describes a microfluidic micro mixer circuit, containing a structured microfluidic circuit to generate, as an example, the mixture of cosmetic products, built in ceramic material that gives resistance to the system, being easy to operate and allows reuse.
- microfluidic multiprocessor concept presented by this invention shows as a differential a system of easy assembly and operation, safe for the user and hermetic, thus avoiding external contamination, having as an inventive activity the efficient mixtures of fluids, especially its application in cosmetics.
- the microfluidic multiprocessor is composed of two subsystems, subsystem I (A) dedicated to the step of dispensing / dosing fluids in a reservoir and subsystem II (B) performs the process of recirculating the fluids circulating through the microfluidic mixer .
- the subsystem I (Fig. 2A) of the microfluidic multiprocessor has as a differential the dispensing and dosing of different products, in the desired concentrations and / or proportions, with dispensing / dosing using pumps of the solenoid type (A1), not being limited to this type of pump, in which the desired volume of each fluid is inserted into a control platform that drives each pump to dump the required volume of each fluid.
- the fluids are dispensed / dosed in a reservoir (A6) that is used for dispensing and recirculating the fluids through the microfluidic circuit.
- Subsystem II (Fig. 2B) that makes up the microfluidic multiprocessor performs the process of recirculating the fluids that are dispensed / dosed in the dispensing / recirculation reservoir (A6) by the microfluidic circuit.
- the volume of fluids present in the dispensing / dosing reservoir (A6) is recirculated by the microfluidic system, using a recirculation pump (B2), which can be of the gear type, and passing through the microfluidic circuit (B4) to carry out the process of mixing the fluids after several cycles of recirculation.
- the present invention has as a differential the integrated concept of dispensing / dosing and recirculation subsystems of fluids that are mixed by means of a mixer-type microfluidic circuit.
- the mixer type microfluidic circuit (B4), its geometry is configured using the channel model with consecutive divisions and junctions (2A) to generate the mixture of at least two different fluids within the microchannels, that is, a microchannel geometry configured in a three-dimensional form, having at least two divisions and recombination on the x, y and z axes, thus characterizing an original microchannel geometry, composed of a parallelized system of microchannels, having a microchannel distribution network with fluid speeds homogeneous form and reduced head loss between the micro mixer units.
- the mixer-type microfluidic circuit shown in the example was made of ceramic material in LTCC and has as a differential the presence of structures with at least two units of division and junction of the channels in the horizontal and vertical direction, forming three-dimensional structures, having seven units repeated sequentially.
- microchannel geometry configurations of the example mixer allow the mixing of different fluids, including thixotropic fluids and with viscosities above 2000 cP, not being limited to just these types of fluids.
- microchannel structures were designed in four layers.
- the set of layers of green ceramic sheets in LTCC is submitted to a sintering process, which promotes the densification of the microfluidic circuit, structuring the microchannels, through a thermal heating profile, preferably using temperature levels of 450 ° C and 850 ° ⁇ ;
- the access holes for entry and exit of fluids in the cover of the micro mixer can optionally contain connections for pipes for entry and exit of fluids;
- materials resistant to pressure and temperature and inert to chemical solvents are used, preferably green ceramic of the LTCC type;
- microfluidic circuit is resistant and is reusable through a periodic cleaning and sanitization process
- the microfluidic micro mixer circuit was characterized in terms of operational capacity in terms of dispensing / dosing, flow and pressure supported by the microfluidic circuit and the effect of fluid mixes as a function of the number of recirculations.
- the dispensing and dosing processes were characterized in terms of precision of dispensed volume, preferably using solenoid type pumps, being possible to dispense even fluids with thixotropic rheological behavior with viscosities above 2000 cP, with a dosing capacity of tens of milliliters .
- the parallel system uses a microchannel distribution network that guarantees control of the magnitude of the speed in the microchannels and reduces the head loss of the system. This fact guarantees the mixing of the cosmetic bases in a homogeneous way in each unit of microfluidic micro mixer in the parallelized system.
- the microfluidic micromixer circuit was able to generate a homogeneous mixture of fluids through the microchannels, proving to be applicable for the production of customized products.
- the present invention also provides the use of the microfluidic mixer circuit for the production of cosmetic products, not limited to to this application, individually and or personalized with the ideal composition and / or desired by the consumer.
- microfluidic multiprocessor is also attributed to the use of a microfluidic circuit with a multiple lamination geometry composed by a three-dimensional structure of double divisions and parallelized that leads to an increase in production, allowing the application even on an industrial scale.
- microfluidic micro-mixer circuit for mixing cosmetic products:
- the proposed microfluidic micro-mixer circuit which is composed of a process of dispensing / dosing and recirculation with mixer-type microfluidic circuit, proved to be efficient to generate the mixture of fluids and viable for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
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Abstract
Description
APARELHO MULTIPROCESSADOR MICROFLUÍDICO E SEU USO MICROFLUID MULTIPROCESSOR APPLIANCE AND ITS USE
Campo da invenção: Field of the invention:
[001] De forma abrangente, a presente invenção se insere no setor de misturas eficientes de fluidos, em especial de higiene pessoal, perfumaria, cosméticos e de microfluídica para produzir produtos higiene pessoal, perfumaria, cosméticos, inclusive produtos personalizados em que seja definida a composição de ingredientes e/ou tonalidade ideal e/ou desejada pelo consumidor. Mais especificamente, a invenção refere-se a um sistema que é formado por um multiprocessador microfluídico, o qual é composto por conjuntos com processo de dispensação de formulação e recirculação de produtos que passam por um circuito microfluídico cerâmico estruturado para gerar a mistura de produtos, gerando assim produtos de forma personalizada. Este multiprocessador microfluídico para mistura de produtos cosméticos é reutilizável, de fácil operação e hermético. [001] In a comprehensive way, the present invention is inserted in the sector of efficient mixtures of fluids, in particular personal hygiene, perfumery, cosmetics and microfluidics to produce personal hygiene products, perfumery, cosmetics, including personalized products in which the composition of ingredients and / or shade ideal and / or desired by the consumer. More specifically, the invention relates to a system that is formed by a microfluidic multiprocessor, which is composed of sets with a product formulation dispensing and recirculation process that pass through a structured ceramic microfluidic circuit to generate the product mix, thus generating products in a personalized way. This microfluidic multiprocessor for mixing cosmetic products is reusable, easy to operate and airtight.
Fundamentos da invenção: Basics of the invention:
[002] No contexto atual de Indústria 4.0, a indústria tem buscado por soluções e tecnologias inovadoras que permitam a oferta de produtos e serviços conectados a uma experiência personalizada além de economia de custo, tempo e processamento. Nas indústrias de higiene pessoal, perfumaria, corméticos e FMGC ( Fast-Moving Consumer Goods ou Consumer Packaged Goods ) este contexto não é diferente. A preocupação com a personalização é uma tendência e produtos com esta característica já estão disponíveis no mercado, fortalecendo no mercado a filosofia do DIY - ou faça você mesmo. [002] In the current context of Industry 4.0, the industry has been looking for innovative solutions and technologies that allow the offer of products and services connected to a personalized experience in addition to cost savings, time and processing. In the personal care, perfumery, cosmetics and FMGC (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods or Consumer Packaged Goods) industries this context is no different. The concern with personalization is a trend and products with this characteristic are already available in the market, strengthening the DIY philosophy in the market - or do it yourself.
[003] No que se diz respeito a produtos de higiene pessoal, cremes e soluções podem ser formulados especificamente para o tipo de pele ou cabelo além o tratamento desejado. [003] With regard to personal care products, creams and solutions can be formulated specifically for the type of skin or hair in addition to the desired treatment.
[004] Em termos de produtos de beleza e maquiagens, a tonalidade da pele é um fator adicional relevante ao utilizar um determinado produto cosmético. [004] In terms of beauty products and makeup, skin tone is an additional relevant factor when using a particular cosmetic product.
[005] Neste caso, produtos tonalizantes como a base cosmética, corretivos e protetores solares destacam-se como produtos que tem maior relação com o tom de pele. Em especial, as bases cosméticas devem ser produzidas em cores que possam pigmentar todos os tons de pele, sendo que os tons de pele mais claros podem ser pigmentadas por 7 a 8 cores de bases faciais, enquanto os tons de pele mais escuros são pigmentados em pelo menos 10 a 12 cores de bases diante da vasta variação de tons de pele. [005] In this case, toning products such as cosmetics, concealers and sunscreens stand out as products that have a greater relationship with skin tone. In particular, cosmetic bases should be produced in colors that can pigment all skin tones, with lighter skin tones being pigmented by 7 to 8 colors of facial bases, while darker skin tones are pigmented in at least 10 to 12 base colors in view of the wide range of skin tones.
[006] Com isso, as indústrias cosméticas buscam formular bases cosméticas em algumas variações de cores de bases faciais que possam atender as demandas de mercado. Sendo assim, o consumidor precisa se limitar na escolha de uma base cosmética que mais se aproxime da cor que seria ideal para o seu tom de pele. [006] With this, the cosmetic industries seek to formulate cosmetic bases in some color variations of facial bases that can meet market demands. Therefore, consumers need to limit themselves in choosing a cosmetic base that most closely matches the color that would be ideal for their skin tone.
[007] Assim, a falta de bases cosméticas faciais em cores específicas e individualizadas leva a necessidade de buscar por tecnologias de produção que permita ao consumidor selecionar a cor da base ideal para o seu tom de pele antes da formulação do produto final. Diante disso, nota-se a importância de buscar por tecnologias que permita gerar produtos personalizados e em lotes individuais. [007] Thus, the lack of facial cosmetic bases in specific and individualized colors leads to the need to search for production technologies that allow the consumer to select the color of the ideal base for their skin tone before formulating the final product. Therefore, it is noted the importance of looking for technologies that allow the generation of personalized products and in individual lots.
[008] Neste contexto, a microfluídica é uma tecnologia que possibilita aplicar os princípios de processamento rápido e eficaz, mostrando seu potencial para a produção de produtos cosméticos personalizados. [008] In this context, microfluidics is a technology that makes it possible to apply the principles of fast and effective processing, showing its potential for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
[009] A microfluídica originou-se da necessidade de aperfeiçoar métodos analíticos, gerando resultados mais rápidos e confiáveis. Desde então, a microfluídica tem contribuído com inovações tecnológicas com potenciais aplicações industriais diante da miniaturização de processos que podem ser precisamente controlados e realizados com menor tempo operacional, se comparado com as tecnologias convencionais. [009] Microfluidics originated from the need to improve analytical methods, generating faster and more reliable results. Since then, microfluidics has contributed to technological innovations with potential industrial applications in view of the miniaturization of processes that can be precisely controlled and carried out with less operational time, when compared with conventional technologies.
[010] Outra vantagem dos circuitos microfluídicos é a versatilidade em termos de microfabricação e estruturas de microcanais, o que tem deixado esta tecnologia cada vez mais em destaque como uma inovação tecnológica. Os circuitos microfluídicos podem ser construídos com materiais elastoméricos, como o polidimetilsiloxano (PDMS), polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) e também em cerâmica verde (LTCC, Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic), sendo que este último apresenta como diferencial a possibilidade de construção de geometrias de microcanais em estruturas tridimensionais e a resistência do material cerâmico permite empregar altas vazões, suportar altas temperaturas e pressões, ser reutilizável e inerte a solventes químicos, o que torna o atrativo para aplicações industriais. [010] Another advantage of microfluidic circuits is the versatility in terms of microfabrication and microchannel structures, which has made this technology increasingly prominent as a technological innovation. Microfluidic circuits can be built with elastomeric materials, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and also in green ceramics (LTCC, Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic), the latter presenting as a differential the possibility of building geometries microchannels in three-dimensional structures and the resistance of the ceramic material allows employing high flow rates, withstanding high temperatures and pressures, being reusable and inert to chemical solvents, which makes it attractive for industrial applications.
[011] A vasta possibilidade de aplicações é outro fator que contribui para o interesse nesta tecnologia e com isso, diferentes estratégias de circuito microfluídicos têm sido desenvolvidas. [011] The vast possibility of applications is another factor that contributes to the interest in this technology and with that, different microfluidic circuit strategies have been developed.
[012] Os circuitos microfluídicos podem ser configurados em microcanais que permitem a geração de gotas, micro e nanopartículas. Há geometrias de microcanais que tem a capacidade de formar gradientes de concentração tanto difusivo como convectivo, e outros que podem gerar a mistura de soluções em microcanais usando sistemas passivos ou ativos com a mesma reprodutibilidade de um processo convencional. Esta diversidade de modelos de sistemas microfluídicos leva a uma ampla margem de aplicações em indústrias químicas, como as farmacêuticas e cosméticas. [012] Microfluidic circuits can be configured in microchannels that allow the generation of drops, micro and nanoparticles. There are microchannel geometries that have the ability to form concentration gradients both diffusive and convective, and others that can generate the mix of solutions in microchannels using passive or active systems with the same reproducibility as a conventional process. This diversity of microfluidic systems models leads to a wide range of applications in chemical industries, such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
[013] No campo de cosméticos e maquiagens, a microfluídica pode ser empregada como uma tecnologia para gerar a mistura dos ingredientes que resultará num produto cosmético homogéneo e na tonalidade desejada pelo consumidor. Desta forma, o circuito microfluídico do tipo micromisturador pode alavancar a indústria de cosmético trazendo inovações no processo de produção de produtos de forma personalizada ou até mesmo a produção de lotes individuais para triagem de novos produtos em fábrica. [013] In the field of cosmetics and makeup, microfluidics can be used as a technology to generate the mixture of ingredients that will result in a homogeneous cosmetic product and the shade desired by the consumer. In this way, the micro-mixer microfluidic circuit can leverage the cosmetic industry bringing innovations in the product production process in a personalized way or even the production of individual batches for screening new products in the factory.
[014] As aplicações em microfluídica para área de cosméticos têm sido direcionadas para o desenvolvimento de partículas e/ou componentes que poderiam agregar na formulação de cosméticos; para investigações de processos de emulsão e para ensaios de permeação cutânea. Contudo, tais circuitos microfluídicos apresentam uma abordagem de estudo mais direcionada ao estudo de ingredientes e/ou componentes que poderiam contribuir para formulações cosméticas. Desta forma, os circuitos microfluídicos são estruturados para ensaios de emulsões e formação de partículas e com isso apresentam alguns pontos críticos/problemas técnicos/limitações, dentre as quais se destacam: a não capacidade de gerar mistura de fluidos, inclusive com viscosidades acima de 2000 cP, não suportar altas pressões e temperaturas, não ser reutilizável e não serem empregados para produção de produtos cosméticos. [014] The applications in microfluidics for the cosmetics area have been directed to the development of particles and / or components that could aggregate in the formulation of cosmetics; for investigations of emulsion processes and for skin permeation tests. However, such microfluidic circuits present a study approach more directed to the study of ingredients and / or components that could contribute to cosmetic formulations. In this way, microfluidic circuits are structured for emulsion tests and particle formation and therefore present some critical points / technical problems / limitations, among which the following stand out: the inability to generate fluid mixes, even with viscosities above 2000 CP, does not withstand high pressures and temperatures, is not reusable and is not used for the production of cosmetic products.
[015] Alguns dos problemas/limitações/pontos críticos mencionados acima estão apresentados de forma detalhada nos documentos descritos a seguir. [015] Some of the problems / limitations / critical points mentioned above are presented in detail in the documents described below.
[016] O documento WO201862970 A1 trata de sistema de dispensador integrado com circuito microfluídico para preparação de composição cosmética por meio de emulsificação instantânea produzida pelos microcanais microfluídicos. Diferentemente deste documento de patente, a presente invenção descreve um multiprocessador microfluídico para a mistura de produtos cosméticos em fluxo contínuo e permitir a formulação de produtos personalizados. [016] The document WO201862970 A1 deals with an integrated dispenser system with microfluidic circuit for the preparation of cosmetic composition by means of instant emulsification produced by microfluidic microchannels. Unlike this patent document, the present invention describes a microfluidic multiprocessor for mixing cosmetic products in a continuous flow and allowing the formulation of customized products.
[017] O documento KR20150070920 A trata-se de um método de produção de vesículas de microgéis de lipídeos por meio de sistema microfluídico de dupla emulsão. Estas vesículas podem ser aplicadas em composição de cosméticos para reduzir a evaporação e assim melhorar a retenção da umidade na composição do cosmético. A presente invenção se diferencia do documento de patente KR20150070920 A por ser um circuito microfluídico aplicado para processos de misturas de fluidos miscíveis e não para formação de emulsões e/ou micropartículas. [017] Document KR20150070920 A is a method of producing lipid microgel vesicles by means of a microfluidic system double emulsion. These vesicles can be applied in cosmetic composition to reduce evaporation and thus improve moisture retention in the cosmetic composition. The present invention differs from patent document KR20150070920 A in that it is a microfluidic circuit applied for mixing miscible fluid processes and not for forming emulsions and / or microparticles.
[018] O documento KR20180110257 A trata-se de um aparato para descarregamento de produtos cosméticos personalizados de acordo com as informações dadas pelo consumidor. O diferencial da invenção do circuito de micromisturador microfluídico proposto é o uso de circuito microfluídico para promover a mistura de produtos cosméticos, tendo um processo rápido e eficiente de mistura de fluidos. [018] Document KR20180110257 A is an apparatus for unloading personalized cosmetic products according to the information given by the consumer. The differential of the invention of the proposed microfluidic micro mixer circuit is the use of microfluidic circuit to promote the mixing of cosmetic products, having a fast and efficient fluid mixing process.
[019] O documento US2003/0069667 A1 trata de um sistema para dispensar formulações cosméticas personalizadas. Embora esta tecnologia apresente um sistema de controle microprocessado e dispensador de fluido com misturador, a presente inovação tem como diferencial o uso de um sistema de dispensação baseado em bombas de dosagem e um sistema de recirculação integrado a um circuito microfluídico que promove uma mistura mais eficiente de produtos cosméticos. [019] Document US2003 / 0069667 A1 deals with a system for dispensing personalized cosmetic formulations. Although this technology presents a microprocessor control system and fluid dispenser with mixer, the present innovation has as a differential the use of a dispensing system based on dosing pumps and a recirculation system integrated to a microfluidic circuit that promotes a more efficient mixing of cosmetic products.
[020] O documento KR20050033794 A apresenta um sistema para mistura de líquidos. A invenção compõe reservatórios e sistemas de bombeamento de líquidos, os quais são misturados em microcanais microfluídicos por difusão. A presente inovação se diferencia desta tecnologia principalmente por se tratar de um sistema microfluídico com canais estruturados para gerar mistura de fluidos, inclusive de alta viscosidade, por meio de advecção caótica. [020] Document KR20050033794 A presents a system for mixing liquids. The invention comprises reservoirs and liquid pumping systems, which are mixed in microfluidic microchannels by diffusion. The present innovation differs from this technology mainly because it is a microfluidic system with structured channels to generate mixture of fluids, including high viscosity, through chaotic advection.
[021] O documento US9007588B1 apresenta um equipamento para produção de produtos cosméticos tendo integrado um instrumento para medição textura e tom de pele do usuário para a formulação de um produto cosmético personalizado por meio de mistura mecânica e um dispensador que usa bombas peristálticas. A presente invenção de diferencia do documento US9007588B1 principalmente por se tratar de um sistema de mistura por microfluídica, aplicado inclusive para fluidos de alta viscosidade, ter um processo de dispensação e recirculação que aumentam a reprodutibilidade e eficiência de mistura para produção de produtos cosméticos personalizados. [021] The document US9007588B1 presents an equipment for the production of cosmetic products, having integrated an instrument for measuring texture and skin tone of the user for the formulation of a personalized cosmetic product by means of mechanical mixing and a dispenser that uses peristaltic pumps. The present invention differs from document US9007588B1 mainly because it is a microfluidic mixing system, applied even for high viscosity fluids, to have a dispensing and recirculation process that increase the reproducibility and mixing efficiency for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
Breve descrição da invenção: Brief description of the invention:
[022] A invenção descreve circuito micromisturador microfluídico estruturado para a geração de misturas eficientes de fluidos, em especial de produtos cosméticos. [022] The invention describes a structured microfluidic micro-mixer circuit for the generation of efficient mixtures of fluids, in particular cosmetic products.
[023] Mais especificamente, a invenção faz referência a um micromisturador microfluídico (B4) integrado com um circuito de recirculação (B) dos produtos cosméticos, em que o conjunto completo garante a efetiva mistura de produtos cosméticos. [023] More specifically, the invention refers to a microfluidic micro-mixer (B4) integrated with a recirculation circuit (B) for cosmetic products, in which the complete set guarantees the effective mixing of cosmetic products.
[024] O termo “multiprocessador microfluídico” faz referência ao processo completo de mistura e recirculação, incluindo o sistema do micromisturador microfluídico. O termo “subsistema I” refere-se ao conjunto que compõe a etapa de dosagem dos produtos cosméticos (A). O termo “subsistema II” indica o conjunto que compõe a etapa de recirculação dos produtos cosméticos passando pelo sistema microfluídico (B). O termo “micromisturador” refere-se ao tipo de sistema microfluídico estruturado para desempenhar a função de misturar fluidos dentro dos microcanais (B4). [024] The term “microfluidic multiprocessor” refers to the complete mixing and recirculation process, including the microfluidic micro-mixer system. The term “subsystem I” refers to the set that makes up the dosage stage for cosmetic products (A). The term "subsystem II" indicates the set that makes up the stage of recirculation of cosmetic products through the microfluidic system (B). The term “micro mixer” refers to the type of microfluidic system structured to perform the function of mixing fluids within the microchannels (B4).
[025] Em primeiro aspecto, esta invenção consiste em um conceito de mistura de fluidos por circuito microfluídico por meio de um processo de dispensação/dosagem de fluidos (A) e de recirculação integrado ao sistema (B), denominado “multiprocessador microfluídico” (Figura 1), que compreende: [025] In the first aspect, this invention consists of a concept of mixing fluids by microfluidic circuit through a process of fluid dispensing / dosing (A) and recirculation integrated into the system (B), called “microfluidic multiprocessor” (Figure 1), which comprises:
- “subsistema I” refere-se ao processo de dispensação/dosagem dos fluidos (A), contendo: um suporte de montagem; pelo menos uma bomba de dispensação para cada fluido (A1), preferencialmente bomba do tipo solenoide; eletrónica de controle e software dedicado para realizar a dispensação/dosagem dos volumes dos fluidos pelas bombas (C); computador de controle; pelo menos um reservatório para estoque de cada fluido (A2 - A3); tubulações para transporte dos fluidos nos reservatórios de estoque para as bombas (A5) e um reservatório para a dispensação/recirculação dos fluidos (A6) - “subsystem I” refers to the process of dispensing / dosing fluids (A), containing: a mounting bracket; at least one dispensing pump for each fluid (A1), preferably a solenoid type pump; control electronics and dedicated software to perform the dispensing / dosing of the fluid volumes by the pumps (C); control computer; at least one reservoir for stocking each fluid (A2 - A3); pipes for transporting fluids in the stock reservoirs for the pumps (A5) and a reservoir for dispensing / recirculating the fluids (A6)
- “subsistema II” refere-se ao conjunto de recirculação (B), contendo: um reservatório para a dispensação/recirculação dos fluidos (A6); uma bomba para recirculação (B2), preferencialmente uma bomba do tipo de engrenagem; tubulações de conexão do reservatório de dispensação/recirculação para a bomba (B2); sensor de pressão (B3); suporte de fixação; circuito microfluídico (B4); tubulação para transporte dos fluidos da bomba ao circuito microfluídico; tubulações para transporte dos fluidos que circulam pelo circuito microfluídico ao reservatório de dispensação/recirculação (B1) contendo pelo menos uma válvula de três vias (B4); tubulação de saída conectada em uma das vias da válvula para dispensação dos fluidos no reservatório do produto cosmético formulado. - “subsystem II” refers to the recirculation set (B), containing: a reservoir for dispensing / recirculating fluids (A6); a recirculation pump (B2), preferably a gear-type pump; connection pipes from the dispensing / recirculation reservoir to the pump (B2); pressure sensor (B3); Mounting bracket; microfluidic circuit (B4); piping for transporting fluids from the pump to the microfluidic circuit; pipes for transporting the fluids that circulate through the microfluidic circuit to the dispensing / recirculation reservoir (B1) containing at least one three-way valve (B4); outlet tubing connected to one of the valve paths for dispensing fluids in the reservoir of the formulated cosmetic product.
[026] Sendo que: [026] Since:
- pelo menos um suporte de montagem serve para fixar as bombas de dispensação e pode ser feito com materiais em alumínio, aço inox, acrílico ou qualquer outro material que dê sustentação às bombas, sendo fabricados, preferencialmente por usinagem, com materiais de acrílico, alumínio ou aço inoxidável; - at least one mounting bracket serves to fix the dispensing pumps and can be made with materials in aluminum, stainless steel, acrylic or any other material that supports the pumps, being manufactured, preferably by machining, with acrylic, aluminum or stainless steel materials;
- bombas para dispensação/dosagem dos fluidos, que podem ser do tipo solenoide, engrenagem, diafragma e/ou peristáltica, preferencialmente bombas do tipo solenoide e a bomba para recirculação dos fluidos pelo multiprocessador microfluídico podem ser do tipo solenoide, engrenagem, diafragma e/ou peristáltica, preferencialmente do tipo de engrenagens, não se limitando a apenas esta forma de bombeamento; - pumps for dispensing / dosing fluids, which can be of the solenoid, gear, diaphragm and / or peristaltic type, preferably solenoid type pumps and the pump for fluid recirculation by the microfluidic multiprocessor can be of the solenoid, gear, diaphragm and / type or peristaltic, preferably the type of gears, not limited to just this form of pumping;
- software para controlar a dispensação/dosagem dos volumes dos fluidos pelas bombas (C) usando preferencialmente software de instrumentação virtual; - software to control the dispensing / dosing of fluid volumes by pumps (C) preferably using virtual instrumentation software;
- tubulações (B1) feitas com material resistente e inerte, preferencialmente em aço inox, não se limitando a este tipo de material; - pipes (B1) made with resistant and inert material, preferably in stainless steel, not limited to this type of material;
- suporte de fixação para o circuito microfluídico construído preferencialmente em aço inox, sendo possível fabricar em outros materiais que confiram resistência e tenham conexões para o circuito microfluídico, tendo pelo menos uma entrada e uma saída que se conecte ao circuito microfluídico. - fixing support for the microfluidic circuit, preferably made of stainless steel, making it possible to manufacture in other materials that provide resistance and have connections for the microfluidic circuit, having at least one inlet and one outlet that connects to the microfluidic circuit.
[027] Em um segundo aspecto, esta invenção refere-se a um sistema de misturador microfluídico (Figura 2), que compreende: [027] In a second aspect, this invention relates to a microfluidic mixer system (Figure 2), which comprises:
- uso de materiais resistentes à pressão e temperatura e inertes a solventes químicos, tais como folhas de cerâmica verde recortadas em pelo menos quatro camadas que formam as paredes dos microcanais e as bases de fundo e de tampa do micromisturador permitindo a fabricação de estruturas de canais bi ou tridimensionais (2A); - use of materials resistant to pressure and temperature and inert to chemical solvents, such as sheets of green ceramic cut in at least four layers that form the walls of the microchannels and the bottom and cover bases of the micro mixer allowing the manufacture of channel structures bi or three-dimensional (2A);
- corpo principal do micromisturador estruturado com canais que tenham pelo menos uma divisão e junção dos canais de forma sequencial (2A), as quais se repetem periodicamente pelo menos uma vez no sentido horizontal e/ou vertical para termos sentido bidirecional vertical do circuito microfluídico, preferencialmente sentidos vertical e horizontal criando estruturas de canais tridimensionais, contendo preferencialmente sete unidades destas estruturas de canais para promover a mistura dos fluidos;- main body of the micro-mixer structured with channels that have at least one division and junction of the channels in a sequential manner (2A), the which are repeated periodically at least once horizontally and / or vertically to have a bi-directional vertical direction of the microfluidic circuit, preferably vertical and horizontal directions creating three-dimensional channel structures, preferably containing seven units of these channel structures to promote fluid mixing;
- estrutura de rede de microcanais (2B), que faz a distribuição dos fluidos para pelo menos duas unidades em paralelo de micromisturadores, tendo pelo menos uma entrada principal e uma saída; sendo que os microcanais devem ser construídos com materiais resistentes à pressão e temperatura para permitir a configuração preferencial de geometrias tridimensionais, preferencialmente usando folhas de cerâmica verde LTCC ( Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramics) e/ou HTCC ( High temperatura co-fired ceramics) - microchannel network structure (2B), which distributes fluids to at least two units in parallel of micro mixers, having at least one main inlet and one outlet; being that the microchannels must be constructed with materials resistant to pressure and temperature to allow the preferential configuration of three-dimensional geometries, preferably using LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramics) and / or HTCC (High temperature co-fired ceramics) green ceramic sheets
[028] Ainda, a invenção descreve o uso do multiprocessador microfluídico para misturar de fluidos, incluindo produtos cosméticos (3-4). Os fluidos que podem ser empregados no circuito microfluídico incluem produtos cosméticos, como bases cosméticas, hidratantes, cremes, pigmentos de maquiagens, esmaltes ou tintas. Ainda podem ser empregados fluidos para aplicações em indústrias farmacêuticas, de alimentos e tintas. [028] In addition, the invention describes the use of the microfluidic multiprocessor to mix fluids, including cosmetic products (3-4). The fluids that can be used in the microfluidic circuit include cosmetic products, such as cosmetic bases, moisturizers, creams, makeup pigments, enamels or paints. Fluids can still be used for applications in the pharmaceutical, food and paint industries.
Breve descrição das figuras: Brief description of the figures:
[029] Para obter uma total e completa visualização do objeto desta invenção, são apresentadas as figuras as quais se faz referência: [029] In order to obtain a total and complete visualization of the object of this invention, the figures to which reference is made are presented:
[030] A Figura 1 apresenta o desenho esquemático do circuito do micromisturador microfluídico, o qual é composto por bombas de dispensação/dosagem (A); reservatório de recirculação/dispensação (A6); bomba para recirculação (B2); sensor de pressão (B3); circuito microfluídico (B4); válvula de três vias (A4-B5); reservatório de produto final (B6). [031] As Figuras 2A e 2B são desenhos esquemáticos que representam o circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador, em que (2A) é a unidade da geometria de microcanais que usa estruturas tridimensionais com pelo menos duas divisões e junções dos canais e (2B) é a configuração do circuito microfluídico com configuração paralelizada ou bidimensional, configurando uma rede de distribuição de canais para pelo menos duas unidades do micromisturador em paralelo. [030] Figure 1 shows the schematic drawing of the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit, which consists of dispensing / dosing pumps (A); recirculation / dispensing reservoir (A6); pump for recirculation (B2); pressure sensor (B3); microfluidic circuit (B4); three-way valve (A4-B5); final product reservoir (B6). [031] Figures 2A and 2B are schematic drawings representing the mixer-type microfluidic circuit, where (2A) is the unit of microchannel geometry that uses three-dimensional structures with at least two divisions and channel junctions and (2B) is the configuration of the microfluidic circuit with parallel or two-dimensional configuration, configuring a channel distribution network for at least two units of the micro mixer in parallel.
[032] A Figura 3 é gráfico que mostra a avaliação da funcionalidade do multiprocessador microfluídico usando técnicas de colorimetria para avaliar o efeito de mistura pela diferença de cor de amostras de produtos cosméticos em cores clara, média e escura com os respectivos padrões. Para isso foi tomado como base o método de Delta E (AEcmc) [032] Figure 3 is a graph showing the evaluation of the functionality of the microfluidic multiprocessor using colorimetry techniques to evaluate the mixing effect by the color difference of samples of cosmetic products in light, medium and dark colors with the respective standards. The Delta E method (AEcmc) was used as a basis for this.
[033] A Figura 4 é gráfico que mostra a avaliação da funcionalidade do multiprocessador microfluídico usando técnicas de colorimetria para avaliar o efeito de mistura pela diferença de cor de amostras de produtos cosméticos em cores clara, média e escura (método de Delta E (AEcmc)) em que valores abaixo de 0,5 indicam uma melhor resposta de mistura. [033] Figure 4 is a graph showing the evaluation of the functionality of the microfluidic multiprocessor using colorimetry techniques to evaluate the mixing effect by the color difference of samples of cosmetic products in light, medium and dark colors (Delta E method (AEcmc )) where values below 0.5 indicate a better mixing response.
[034] As Figuras 5A até 5I representam a avaliação da diferença de cor por análise visual do processo de mistura, em que as Fig. A até Fig. Fl mostram a avaliação visual da capacidade de mistura do multiprocessador microfluídico usando produtos cosméticos com tonalidades clara, média e escura; e a Fig. 5I mostra a avaliação feita pelo método de Delta E em que a avaliação é feita a partir da medida da distância de cor das tonalidades de bases cosméticas produzidas no circuito do micromisturador microfluídico com seus respectivos padrões. [034] Figures 5A through 5I represent the evaluation of the color difference by visual analysis of the mixing process, in which Figures A to Fig. Fl show the visual evaluation of the mixing capacity of the microfluidic multiprocessor using light tinted cosmetic products , medium and dark; and Fig. 5I shows the evaluation made by the Delta E method in which the evaluation is made from the measurement of the color distance of the shades of cosmetic bases produced in the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit with their respective standards.
Descrição detalhada da invenção: [035] A invenção descreve um circuito micromisturador microfluídico, contendo um circuito microfluídico estruturado para gerar, como exemplo, a mistura de produtos cosméticos, construído em material cerâmico que confere resistência ao sistema, sendo de fácil operação e permite a reutilização. Detailed description of the invention: [035] The invention describes a microfluidic micro mixer circuit, containing a structured microfluidic circuit to generate, as an example, the mixture of cosmetic products, built in ceramic material that gives resistance to the system, being easy to operate and allows reuse.
[036] O conceito de multiprocessador microfluídico apresentado por esta invenção mostra como diferencial um sistema de fácil montagem e operação, seguro ao usuário e hermético, evitando assim a contaminação externa, tendo como atividade inventiva as misturas eficientes de fluidos, em especial a sua aplicação em cosméticos. [036] The microfluidic multiprocessor concept presented by this invention shows as a differential a system of easy assembly and operation, safe for the user and hermetic, thus avoiding external contamination, having as an inventive activity the efficient mixtures of fluids, especially its application in cosmetics.
[037] O multiprocessador microfluídico é composto por dois subsistemas, sendo o subsistema I (A) dedicado para a etapa de dispensação/dosagem de fluidos num reservatório e o subsistema II (B) realiza o processo de recirculação dos fluidos que circulam pelo misturador microfluídico. [037] The microfluidic multiprocessor is composed of two subsystems, subsystem I (A) dedicated to the step of dispensing / dosing fluids in a reservoir and subsystem II (B) performs the process of recirculating the fluids circulating through the microfluidic mixer .
[038] O subsistema I (Fig. 2A) do multiprocessador microfluídico apresenta como diferencial a dispensação e dosagem de diferentes produtos, nas concentrações e/ou proporções desejadas, sendo feita a dispensação/dosagem usando bombas do tipo solenoide (A1), não estando limitado a este tipo de bomba, em que o volume desejado de cada fluido é inserido numa plataforma de controle que aciona cada bomba para despejar o volume requerido de cada fluido. Os fluidos são dispensados/dosados num reservatório (A6) que é usado para dispensação e recirculação dos fluidos pelo circuito microfluídico. [038] The subsystem I (Fig. 2A) of the microfluidic multiprocessor has as a differential the dispensing and dosing of different products, in the desired concentrations and / or proportions, with dispensing / dosing using pumps of the solenoid type (A1), not being limited to this type of pump, in which the desired volume of each fluid is inserted into a control platform that drives each pump to dump the required volume of each fluid. The fluids are dispensed / dosed in a reservoir (A6) that is used for dispensing and recirculating the fluids through the microfluidic circuit.
[039] O subsistema II (Fig. 2B) que compõe o multiprocessador microfluídico realiza o processo de recirculação dos fluidos que são dispensados/dosados no reservatório de dispensação/recirculação (A6) pelo circuito microfluídico. [040] No subsistema II (Fig. 2B), o volume dos fluidos presentes no reservatório de dispensação/dosagem (A6) é recirculado pelo sistema microfluídico, usando uma bomba para recirculação (B2), a qual pode ser do tipo de engrenagem, e passando pelo circuito microfluídico (B4) para realizar o processo de mistura dos fluidos após vários ciclos de recirculação. [039] Subsystem II (Fig. 2B) that makes up the microfluidic multiprocessor performs the process of recirculating the fluids that are dispensed / dosed in the dispensing / recirculation reservoir (A6) by the microfluidic circuit. [040] In subsystem II (Fig. 2B), the volume of fluids present in the dispensing / dosing reservoir (A6) is recirculated by the microfluidic system, using a recirculation pump (B2), which can be of the gear type, and passing through the microfluidic circuit (B4) to carry out the process of mixing the fluids after several cycles of recirculation.
[041] Assim, a presente invenção tem como diferencial o conceito integrado de subsistemas de dispensação/dosagem e recirculação de fluidos que são misturados por meio de um circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador. [041] Thus, the present invention has as a differential the integrated concept of dispensing / dosing and recirculation subsystems of fluids that are mixed by means of a mixer-type microfluidic circuit.
[042] Com relação ao circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador (B4), sua geometria é configurada usando o modelo de canais com consecutivas divisões e junções (2A) para gerar a mistura de pelo menos dois fluidos diferentes dentro dos microcanais, isto é, uma geometria de microcanais configurado de forma tridimensional, tendo pelo menos duas divisões e recombinação nos eixos x, y e z, sendo assim caracterizada uma geometria de microcanais original, composto por um sistema paralelizado de microcanais, tendo uma rede de distribuição de microcanais com velocidade dos fluidos de forma homogénea e reduzida perda de carga entre as unidades de micromisturadores. [042] Regarding the mixer type microfluidic circuit (B4), its geometry is configured using the channel model with consecutive divisions and junctions (2A) to generate the mixture of at least two different fluids within the microchannels, that is, a microchannel geometry configured in a three-dimensional form, having at least two divisions and recombination on the x, y and z axes, thus characterizing an original microchannel geometry, composed of a parallelized system of microchannels, having a microchannel distribution network with fluid speeds homogeneous form and reduced head loss between the micro mixer units.
[043] Assim, circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador revelado no exemplo foi construído em material cerâmico em LTCC e possui como diferencial a presença de estruturas com pelo menos duas unidades de divisão e junção dos canais no sentindo horizontal e vertical, formando estruturas tridimensionais, tendo sete unidades repetidas de forma sequencial. [043] Thus, the mixer-type microfluidic circuit shown in the example was made of ceramic material in LTCC and has as a differential the presence of structures with at least two units of division and junction of the channels in the horizontal and vertical direction, forming three-dimensional structures, having seven units repeated sequentially.
[044] Além disso, as configurações de geometria de microcanais do misturador do exemplo permite a mistura de diferentes fluidos, inclusive de fluidos tixotrópicos e com viscosidades acima de 2000 cP, não se limitando à apenas estes tipos de fluidos. [045] EXEMPLO DE CONCRETIZAÇÃO DA INVENÇÃO[044] Furthermore, the microchannel geometry configurations of the example mixer allow the mixing of different fluids, including thixotropic fluids and with viscosities above 2000 cP, not being limited to just these types of fluids. [045] EXAMPLE OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
- as estruturas dos microcanais foram projetadas em quatro camadas. - the microchannel structures were designed in four layers.
- as folhas de cerâmica verde em LTCC foram recortadas em laser UV para transferência da geometria dos microcanais; - the green ceramic sheets in LTCC were cut with a UV laser to transfer the geometry of the microchannels;
- cada camada de folhas de cerâmica verde em LTCC, contendo as estruturas dos microcanais, foi alinhada e empilhada formando os microcanais tridimensionais e as bases de fundo liso e uma tampa com orifícios de acesso para entradas e saída dos fluídos; - each layer of green ceramic sheets in LTCC, containing the structures of the microchannels, was aligned and stacked to form the three-dimensional microchannels and the smooth bottom bases and a cover with access holes for entry and exit of fluids;
- o conjunto de camadas de folhas de cerâmicas verdes em LTCC é submetido a um processo de sinterização, que promove a densificação do circuito microfluídico, estruturando os microcanais, por meio de perfil aquecimento térmico preferencialmente usando patamares de temperatura de 450°C e 850°C; - the set of layers of green ceramic sheets in LTCC is submitted to a sintering process, which promotes the densification of the microfluidic circuit, structuring the microchannels, through a thermal heating profile, preferably using temperature levels of 450 ° C and 850 ° Ç;
- os orifícios de acesso para entrada e saída de fluidos na tampa do micromisturador podem opcionalmente conter conexões para tubulações para entrada e saída dos fluidos; - the access holes for entry and exit of fluids in the cover of the micro mixer can optionally contain connections for pipes for entry and exit of fluids;
- para construção do circuito microfluídico usam-se materiais resistentes à pressão e temperatura e inertes a solventes químicos, preferencialmente cerâmica verde do tipo LTCC; - for the construction of the microfluidic circuit, materials resistant to pressure and temperature and inert to chemical solvents are used, preferably green ceramic of the LTCC type;
[046] - O circuito microfluídico é resistente e é reutilizável através de um processo periódico de limpeza e sanitização [046] - The microfluidic circuit is resistant and is reusable through a periodic cleaning and sanitization process
Caracterizações operacionais do circuito micromisturador microfluídico: Operational characterizations of the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit:
[047] O circuito micromisturador microfluídico foi caracterizado quanto à capacidade operacional em termos de dispensação/dosagem, vazão e pressão suportadas pelo circuito microfluídico e efeito da mistura de fluidos em função do número de recirculações. [048] Os processos de dispensação e dosagem foram caracterizados em termos de precisão de volume dispensado, usando preferencialmente bombas do tipo solenoide, sendo possível dispensar inclusive fluidos com comportamento reológico tixotrópico com viscosidades acima de 2000 cP, com capacidade de dosagem de dezenas de mililitros. [047] The microfluidic micro mixer circuit was characterized in terms of operational capacity in terms of dispensing / dosing, flow and pressure supported by the microfluidic circuit and the effect of fluid mixes as a function of the number of recirculations. [048] The dispensing and dosing processes were characterized in terms of precision of dispensed volume, preferably using solenoid type pumps, being possible to dispense even fluids with thixotropic rheological behavior with viscosities above 2000 cP, with a dosing capacity of tens of milliliters .
[049] O processo de mistura e recirculação do multiprocessador microfluídico foi caracterizado com relação à capacidade de vazão e pressão suportada pelo circuito microfluídico. [049] The mixing and recirculation process of the microfluidic multiprocessor was characterized with respect to the flow and pressure capacity supported by the microfluidic circuit.
[050] A capacidade operacional do circuito microfluídico foi avaliada com vazões até 50 mL min 1, resultando numa pressão de 12 bar, não se limitando a apenas esta relação de vazões e capacidade operacional da bomba. [050] The operational capacity of the microfluidic circuit was evaluated with flow rates up to 50 mL min 1 , resulting in a pressure of 12 bar, not limited to just this ratio of flow rates and the operational capacity of the pump.
[051] Além disso, uma avaliação em simulação computacional mostra que a indução da advecção pelo processo de laminação múltipla, causado pela divisão e recombinação das correntes fluídicas mostrou-se mais eficiente para a mistura de bases cosméticas. [051] In addition, a computer simulation evaluation shows that the induction of advection by the multiple lamination process, caused by the division and recombination of fluid streams proved to be more efficient for mixing cosmetic bases.
[052] O sistema paralelizado utiliza rede de distribuição de microcanais que garantem o controle da magnitude da velocidade nos microcanais e reduzem a perda de carga do sistema. Tal fato garante a mistura das bases cosméticas de forma homogénea em cada unidade de micromisturador microfluídico no sistema paralelizado. [052] The parallel system uses a microchannel distribution network that guarantees control of the magnitude of the speed in the microchannels and reduces the head loss of the system. This fact guarantees the mixing of the cosmetic bases in a homogeneous way in each unit of microfluidic micro mixer in the parallelized system.
[053] Neste estudo foi avaliado o processo de mistura pelo circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador apresentado nesta invenção, sendo empregados pelo menos sete recirculações do fluido pelo multiprocessador microfluídico. Para isso foram avaliadas três tonalidades de bases cosméticas: sendo uma clara, uma média e outra escura. [054] A análise do efeito de mistura gerado pelo circuito microfluídico foi realizado pelo método de diferença de cor Delta E (AEcmc), em que a cor obtida em cada recirculação do multiprocessador microfluídico foi comparada com método de produção convencional, neste caso método de agitação mecânica, como mostra a Figura 3. [053] In this study, the mixing process was evaluated by the microfluidic circuit of the mixer type presented in this invention, with at least seven fluid recirculations being used by the microfluidic multiprocessor. For this, three shades of cosmetic bases were evaluated: one being light, one medium and one dark. [054] The analysis of the mixing effect generated by the microfluidic circuit was carried out by the Delta E (AEcmc) color difference method, in which the color obtained in each recirculation of the microfluidic multiprocessor was compared with the conventional production method, in this case mechanical agitation, as shown in Figure 3.
[055] Neste estudo pode-se observar que, a partir da quarta recirculação, o efeito de mistura de bases cosméticas gerou valores de AEcmc próximos ao limite de aceitação de variação de cor entre amostra e o padrão (AEcmc<0,05), atingindo valores dentro do limite de aceitação na sexta recirculação. [055] In this study it can be seen that, from the fourth recirculation, the effect of mixing cosmetic bases generated values of AEcmc close to the acceptance limit of color variation between sample and the standard (AEcmc <0.05), reaching values within the acceptance limit in the sixth recirculation.
[056] Para a tonalidade clara (Bege Translúcido) foram realizadas até sete recirculações, sendo que na sexta recirculação foi obtido um AEcmc de 0,45 ± 0,14, enquanto que para a sétima recirculação foi de 0,26 ± 0,10. Para as tonalidades média (Marrom Claro) e escura (Marrom Médio) os valores de AEcmc para a sexta recirculação foram de 0,61 ± 0,14 e 0,39 ± 0,07, respectivamente. [056] For the light shade (Translucent Beige), up to seven recirculations were performed, and in the sixth recirculation an AEcmc of 0.45 ± 0.14 was obtained, while for the seventh recirculation it was 0.26 ± 0.10 . For medium (Light Brown) and dark (Medium Brown) tones, the AEcmc values for the sixth recirculation were 0.61 ± 0.14 and 0.39 ± 0.07, respectively.
[057] Os resultados de mistura usando o circuito de misturador microfluídico mostraram a eficiência do sistema para gerar tonalidades de bases cosméticas com cores dentro do limite de aceitação do Delta E (AEcmc). [057] The mixing results using the microfluidic mixer circuit showed the efficiency of the system to generate tones of cosmetic bases with colors within the Delta E (AEcmc) acceptance limit.
[058] Neste estudo pode-se observar que o tempo de processo e o efeito mistura usando o sistema paralelizado mostraram ser aplicáveis para uma escala industrial. [058] In this study it can be seen that the process time and the mixing effect using the parallelized system proved to be applicable for an industrial scale.
[059] Sendo assim, o circuito micromisturador microfluídico foi capaz de gerar uma mistura homogénea de fluidos pelos microcanais, mostrando-se aplicável para produção de produtos personalizados. [059] Therefore, the microfluidic micromixer circuit was able to generate a homogeneous mixture of fluids through the microchannels, proving to be applicable for the production of customized products.
[060] Logo, a presente invenção ainda provê o uso do circuito de misturador microfluídico para produção de produtos cosméticos, não se limitando a esta aplicação, de forma individual e ou personalizada com a composição ideal e/ou desejada pelo consumidor. [060] Therefore, the present invention also provides the use of the microfluidic mixer circuit for the production of cosmetic products, not limited to to this application, individually and or personalized with the ideal composition and / or desired by the consumer.
[061] A inovação e utilização do multiprocessador microfluídico também se atribui ao emprego de um circuito microfluídico com uma geometria de laminação múltipla composta por uma estrutura tridimensional de duplas divisões e paralelizada que leva ao aumento de produção, permitindo a aplicação inclusive em escala industrial. [061] The innovation and use of the microfluidic multiprocessor is also attributed to the use of a microfluidic circuit with a multiple lamination geometry composed by a three-dimensional structure of double divisions and parallelized that leads to an increase in production, allowing the application even on an industrial scale.
Aplicação do circuito micromisturador microfluídico para mistura de produtos de bases cosméticas: Application of the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit for mixing cosmetic products:
[062] Para investigar a viabilidade e reprodutibilidade do processo de mistura usando o circuito micromisturador microfluídico foi avaliada a produção de oito bases cosméticas, em tonalidades claras, médias e escuras, sendo comparadas com os seus respectivos padrões produzidos de forma convencional, como mostrado na Figura 4. [062] In order to investigate the viability and reproducibility of the mixing process using the microfluidic micro-mixer circuit, the production of eight cosmetic bases was evaluated, in light, medium and dark tones, being compared with their respective standards produced in a conventional manner, as shown in Figure 4.
[063] Cada tonalidade de base cosmética foi recirculada por pelo menos seis vezes pelo sistema de recirculação e ao final de cada processamento a tonalidade e homogeneidade das amostras foram analisadas em função da diferença de cor com seus padrões, conforme apresentado Figura 4. [063] Each shade of cosmetic base was recirculated at least six times by the recirculation system and at the end of each processing the shade and homogeneity of the samples were analyzed according to the color difference with their patterns, as shown in Figure 4.
[064] As análises visuais e por colorimetria das misturas de bases cosméticas produzidas pelo circuito de misturador microfluídico mostraram a geração de misturas com cores visualmente homogéneas e a comparação de diferença de cor com os padrões mostraram valores de Delta E dentro do limite estabelecido. [064] Visual and colorimetric analyzes of mixtures of cosmetic bases produced by the microfluidic mixer circuit showed the generation of mixtures with visually homogeneous colors and the comparison of color difference with the standards showed Delta E values within the established limit.
[065] Diante disso, o circuito micromisturador microfluídico proposto, o qual é composto por um processo de dispensação/dosagem e recirculação com circuito microfluídico do tipo misturador, mostrou-se eficiente para gerar a mistura de fluídos e viável para a produção de produtos cosméticos personalizados. [065] In view of this, the proposed microfluidic micro-mixer circuit, which is composed of a process of dispensing / dosing and recirculation with mixer-type microfluidic circuit, proved to be efficient to generate the mixture of fluids and viable for the production of personalized cosmetic products.
Claims
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| BR102019022162-3A BR102019022162A2 (en) | 2019-10-22 | 2019-10-22 | microfluidic multiprocessor device and its use |
| BRBR1020190221623 | 2019-10-22 |
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| WO2021077184A1 true WO2021077184A1 (en) | 2021-04-29 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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| WO (1) | WO2021077184A1 (en) |
Citations (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20030069667A1 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2003-04-10 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Apparatus for providing personalized cosmetics |
| KR20040069496A (en) * | 2003-01-29 | 2004-08-06 | 코스모지놈 주식회사 | Microfluidic mixer and manufacturing method thereof |
| US7111652B2 (en) * | 2003-10-08 | 2006-09-26 | Hitachi Industries Co., Ltd. | Mixed liquid manufacturing apparatus |
| US9007588B1 (en) * | 2011-08-25 | 2015-04-14 | L'oreal | Cosmetic blending machine for foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, primer, skin care products, nail polish, blush, hair dye, lipstick and other products |
| CN107376750A (en) * | 2017-08-03 | 2017-11-24 | 青岛科技大学 | A kind of micro-fluid chip that can be achieved efficiently to mix |
| CN108854891A (en) * | 2018-07-19 | 2018-11-23 | 常州那央生物科技有限公司 | A kind of micro- reaction chip, Microfluidic Mixing method and preparation method thereof |
| WO2019016600A2 (en) * | 2017-07-18 | 2019-01-24 | Avectas Limited | Payload delivery across cell membranes using continuous flow fluidic system |
| KR20190043725A (en) * | 2017-10-19 | 2019-04-29 | 인하대학교 산학협력단 | Three-dimensional flow structure microfluidic mixer |
-
2019
- 2019-10-22 BR BR102019022162-3A patent/BR102019022162A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2020
- 2020-10-13 WO PCT/BR2020/050406 patent/WO2021077184A1/en not_active Ceased
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| US20030069667A1 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2003-04-10 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Apparatus for providing personalized cosmetics |
| KR20040069496A (en) * | 2003-01-29 | 2004-08-06 | 코스모지놈 주식회사 | Microfluidic mixer and manufacturing method thereof |
| US7111652B2 (en) * | 2003-10-08 | 2006-09-26 | Hitachi Industries Co., Ltd. | Mixed liquid manufacturing apparatus |
| US9007588B1 (en) * | 2011-08-25 | 2015-04-14 | L'oreal | Cosmetic blending machine for foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer, primer, skin care products, nail polish, blush, hair dye, lipstick and other products |
| WO2019016600A2 (en) * | 2017-07-18 | 2019-01-24 | Avectas Limited | Payload delivery across cell membranes using continuous flow fluidic system |
| CN107376750A (en) * | 2017-08-03 | 2017-11-24 | 青岛科技大学 | A kind of micro-fluid chip that can be achieved efficiently to mix |
| KR20190043725A (en) * | 2017-10-19 | 2019-04-29 | 인하대학교 산학협력단 | Three-dimensional flow structure microfluidic mixer |
| CN108854891A (en) * | 2018-07-19 | 2018-11-23 | 常州那央生物科技有限公司 | A kind of micro- reaction chip, Microfluidic Mixing method and preparation method thereof |
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