WO2023022714A1

WO2023022714A1 - Releasably securing consumable microfluidic receptacle using negative pressure

Info

Publication number: WO2023022714A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/046557
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael W. Cumbie; Viktor Shkolnikov; Napoleon J. Leoni
Original assignee: Hewlett Packard Development Co LP
Current assignee: Hewlett Packard Development Co LP
Priority date: 2021-08-18
Filing date: 2021-08-18
Publication date: 2023-02-23
Anticipated expiration: 2024-02-18

Abstract

A digital microfluidic assembly includes an electrode control element, which includes an array of individually controllable electrodes supported on a first side of a substrate, a chamber sealed relative to an opposite second side of the substrate and a plurality of apertures. The apertures extend through, and between the respective first and second sides of, the substrate and in communication with the chamber. A support is to align a consumable microfluidic receptacle with the array of electrodes to receive charges on an anisotropic conductivity portion of the receptacle to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within the microfluidic receptacle. Upon application of negative pressure through the chamber and the apertures, the array of electrodes becomes releasably secured against the microfluidic receptacle.

Description

RELEASABLY SECURING CONSUMABLE MICROFLUIDIC RECEPTACLE USING NEGATIVE PRESSURE

Background

[0001] Microfluidic devices are revolutionizing testing in the healthcare industry. Some microfluidic devices comprise digital microfluidic technology, which may employ circuitry to move fluids.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0002] FIGS. 1A and 1 C are each a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device and/or example method to releasably secure a consumable microfluidic receptacle and an electrode control element relative to each other, such as via application of negative pressure.

[0003] FIG. 1 B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example electrode control element including an example array of apertures for applying negative pressure.

[0004] FIG. 2 is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example consumable microfluidic receptacle.

[0005] FIG. 3A are each a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device and/or example method to cause electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within a consumable microfluidic receptacle via application of charges from an external electrode control element.

[0006] FIG. 3B and 3C are each a side view schematically representing an example electrically conductive element.

[0007] FIG. 4A is a diagram including a top view schematically representing an example consumable microfluidic device.

[0008] FIG. 4B is a diagram including an isometric view schematically representing an example two-dimensional array of individually controllable electrodes, prior to releasable contact relative to, a portion of a consumable microfluidic receptacle.

[0009] FIG. 5A is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element including apertures extending through a central portion of electrodes.

[0010] FIG. 5B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example electrode control element of FIG. 5A.

[0011] FIG. 6A is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element including apertures extending through an outer portion of electrodes.

[0012] FIG. 6B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example electrode control element of FIG. 6A.

[0013] FIG. 7A is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element including protrusions on a contact surface of the electrodes.

[0014] FIG. 7B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example electrode control element of FIG. 7A.

[0015] FIG. 8A is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element including compliant conductive elements on a contact surface of the electrodes.

[0016] FIG. 8B is a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example consumable microfluidic receptacle/device including compliant conducive elements on a contact surface of the electrodes.

[0017] FIGS. 9A and 9C each are a diagram including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device and/or example method to releasably secure a consumable microfluidic receptacle and an electrode control element relative to each other.

[0018] FIG. 9B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example manifold arrangement of an anisotropic conductivity portion of an example consumable microfluidic receptacle.

[0019] FIG. 10A is a block diagram schematically representing an example operations engine. [0020] FIGS. 10B and 10C are each a block diagram schematically representing an example control portion and an example user interface, respectively.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram schematically representing an example method.

Detailed Description

[0022] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific examples in which the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other examples may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense. It is to be understood that features of the various examples described herein may be combined, in part or whole, with each other, unless specifically noted otherwise.

[0023] At least some examples of the present disclosure are directed to providing a consumable microfluidic receptacle and/or electrode control element by which digital microfluidic operations can be performed in an inexpensive manner and/or more effectively.

[0024] In some examples, a digital microfluidic assembly may comprise an electrode control element, which comprises an array of individually controllable electrodes, a chamber, and a plurality of apertures. The respective electrodes are supported on at least a first side of a substrate while the chamber is sealed relative to an opposite second side of the substrate. The plurality of apertures extends through, and between the respective first and second sides of, the substrate with the apertures being in communication with the chamber. The assembly comprises a support to align a consumable microfluidic receptacle with the array of electrodes to receive charges on an anisotropic conductivity portion of the receptacle to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within the receptacle. Upon application of negative pressure through the chamber and the apertures, the array of electrodes becomes releasably secured against the receptacle.

[0025] In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle may form part of and/or comprise a microfluidic device, such as a digital microfluidic device. In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle may sometimes be referred to as a single use microfluidic receptacle, or as being a disposable microfluidic receptacle.

[0026] In some examples, each droplet comprises a small, single generally spherical mass of fluid, such as may be dropped into the consumable microfluidic receptacle. As described above, the entire droplet is sized to be movable via electrowetting forces. In sharp contrast, dielectrophoresis may cause movement of particles within a fluid, rather than movement of an entire droplet of fluid. Some further example details are provided below.

[0027] In one aspect, the term “charges” as used herein refers to ions (+/-) or free electrons. In some examples, the electrode control element may generate and apply the charges having a first polarity and/or an opposite second polarity, depending on whether the electrode control element is to build charges on the anisotropic conductivity portion or is to neutralize charges on the plate. The first polarity may be positive or negative depending on the particular goals, while the second polarity will be the opposite of the first polarity.

[0028] Via at least some of example arrangements, the consumable microfluidic receptacle (of a microfluidic device) may omit on-board control electrodes (e.g. electrically active electrodes) which would otherwise be used to cause microfluidic operations such as moving, merging, and/or splitting droplets within a microfluidic device. Moreover, in these particular examples, by providing the separate (but releasably contactable) electrode control element to cause an electric field on a portion of the consumable microfluidic receptacle, the consumable microfluidic receptacle may omit inclusion of a printed circuit board and circuitry (e.g. active control circuitry) typically associated with digital microfluidic devices. This arrangement may significantly reduce the cost of the consumable microfluidic receptacle of the microfluidic device and/or significantly ease its recyclability. [0029] Moreover, because some example consumable microfluidic receptacles of the present disclosure omit such electrically active control electrodes (for causing electrowetting movement) and omit complex circuitry which is typically otherwise directly connected to the control electrodes via conductive traces, the example consumable microfluidic receptacle of the present disclosure is not limited by the limited space constraints typically arising from a one-to-one correspondence between control electrodes and the complex control circuitry. Absent such space constraints, a greater number of target positions along the passageways of the example microfluidic receptacle may be used, which may increase the precision by which microfluidic operations are performed, with a resolution (e.g. number of target positions for a given area) of such target positions corresponding to the capabilities (e.g. resolution) by which the example electrode control element can deposit charges. By being able to reuse such an example electrode control element over-and-over again with a supply of disposable or consumable microfluidic receptacles, this example arrangement greatly reduces the overall, long term cost of using digital microfluidic devices while significantly conserving valuable electrically conductive materials.

[0030] In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle may be used to perform microfluidic operations to implement a lateral flow assay and therefore may sometimes be referred to as a lateral flow device. In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle also may be used for other types of devices, tests, assays which rely on or include digital microfluidic operations, such as moving, merging, splitting, etc. of droplets within internal passages within the microfluidic device.

[0031] These examples, and additional examples, are further described and illustrated below in association with at least FIGS. 1 A-11 .

[0032] FIG. 1A is a diagram 100 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device and/or example method including releasably securing a consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 and an electrode control element 160 relative to each other, such as via application of negative pressure. As later shown in FIG. 1 C, once releasably secured together the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 and the electrode control element 160 may be referred to as a microfluidic (DMF) device assembly 107, in some examples. In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle may form a portion of a microfluidic device, and according sometimes may be referred to as a microfluidic device or portion thereof. As shown in FIG. 1 A, in some examples a support 133 may help align and/or support the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 and/or electrode control element 160 before, during, and/or after their releasable securement.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 1A, a consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 may comprise a conduit or passageway 119 within, and through, which a liquid droplet 130 is to travel via electrowetting movement, as further described later in association with at least FIGS. 3A-4B. In some examples, the liquid droplet 130 may comprise a polar liquid droplet (e.g. conductive droplet). It will be understood that consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 is shown in a simplified form in FIG. 1A and that later Figures illustrate further details of the receptacle 102.

[0034] With this in mind, as shown in FIG. 1A, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 comprises a first plate 110 (which may comprise multiple components) and a second plate 115, which together define the conduit 119. In some examples, the second plate 115 may comprise an anisotropic conductivity layer or portion 120. In some examples, second plate 115 may comprise a structure other than the illustrated anisotropic conductive layer 120 to provide preferential conductivity to facilitate migration of charges deposited via the electrode control element 160. As such, while the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 shown in FIG. 1A is generally representative of a layer exhibiting preferential conductivity, such arrangements may take forms, configurations, etc. other than depicted in FIG. 1A. In some examples, the anisotropic conductivity 120 may be omitted from second plate 1 15 for desired purposes.

[0035] Moreover, as further described later in association with FIG. 2, the second plate 115 may comprise a multi-layered structure including layers in addition to the anisotropic conductivity layer 120. [0036] The second plate 115 comprises a first surface 122 (e.g. exterior surface) and an opposite second surface 121 (e.g. interior surface), while the first plate 110 comprises an interior surface 111 and an exterior surface 112. The respective first and second plates 110, 115 may sometimes be referred to as a portion, sheet, and the like.

[0037] In some examples, at least the interior surface 111 , 121 of the respective first and second plates 110, 115 may comprise a planar or substantially planar surface. It will be further understood that a passageway 119 defined between the respective first and second plates 110, 115 may comprise side walls, which are omitted for illustrative simplicity. The passageway 119 may sometimes be referred to as a conduit, cavity, and the like.

[0038] It will be understood that the first and plates 110, 115 may form part of, and/or be housed within a frame, such as the frame 405 of the microfluidic device 400 shown in FIG. 4A.

[0039] In some examples, the interior of the passageway 119 (between plates 110, 115) may comprise a filler such as a dielectric oil, while in some examples, the filler may comprise air. In some such examples, the filler may comprise other liquids which are immiscible and/or which are electrically passive relative to the droplet 130 and/or relative to the respective plates 110, 115. In some examples, the filler may affect the pulling forces (P), may resist droplet evaporation, and/or facilitate sliding of the droplet and maintaining droplet integrity.

[0040] As further shown in FIG. 1A, in some examples the receptacle 102 may comprise a cover 104 (e.g. lid) including side wall 105 (e.g. shell) to contain and covers at least the first plate 110, with the cover 104 secured relative to the second plate 115.

[0041] As further shown in FIG. 1 A, the electrode control element 160 comprises a substrate 162 which may comprise an insulative material which houses circuitry (and/or conductive elements connectable to circuitry) for controlling generation and application of charges (e.g. 144A in FIG. 3A) via each of the addressable electrodes 172A, 172B, 172C, 172D of array 170. For instance, in some examples, the substrate 162 may comprise an array of conductors to individually control electrodes (e.g. 172A-172D) of electrode array 170, which are connected to additional circuitry which may be located remotely from the electrodes. In some examples, the substrate 162 may comprise a portion of control portion (e.g. 1300 in FIG. 10B), which may be at least partially implemented via control circuitry 569 as further described later in association with at least FIG. 5A. In some examples, the electrode control element 160 may be implemented in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) and/or other structure, such as a molded interconnect substrate (MIS) structure. In some examples, the substrate 162 may sometimes be referred to as a control circuitry portion, base, and the like.

[0042] As further shown in FIG. 1A, in some examples each respective electrode 172A-172D of electrode control element 160 comprises a central portion 174 extending between a first end portion 171 exposed at first side 163 of substrate 162 and an opposite second end portion 173 exposed at an opposite second side 165 of substrate 162. The first end portion 171 of each respective electrode (e.g. 172A-172D) may comprise a contact surface to releasably contact the exterior surface 122 of the second plate 115 (including anisotropic conductivity layer 120). As further shown in FIG. 1A, the electrode control element 160 may comprise opposite edges 167A, 167B.

[0043] The respective electrodes 172A-172D are spaced apart from each other laterally across (and along) substrate 162 by a distance X1 , such as between the respective first end portions 171 of adjacent respective electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. The spacing between adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B may sometimes be referred to as a gap 167, as shown in FIG. 1A. Meanwhile, the first end portion 171 (and second end portion 173) of the respective electrodes 172A-172D may comprise a length X2. As further described later, the length X2 may correspond to a length (D1 ) of a droplet 130 while the distance X1 between adjacent electrodes 172A-172D may correspond to a minimum or other target separation between adjacent locations at (and through which) droplet 130 may move within and through passageway 119.

[0044] In some examples, the length (D1 ) of the droplet in passageway 119 (e.g. FIG. 2A, 3A, 8B) may sometimes be referred as a length scale of the droplet, or a length of a target position of a droplet. Meanwhile, the spacing or distance (X1) between adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. may sometimes be referred to as the length scale of the electrodes 1053. In some examples, the length scale (X1) between electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. may comprise about 50 to about 75 micrometers (e.g. 2-3 mils).

[0045] As further described below in association with at least FIGS. 3A-4B, the application of charges (e.g. 144B in FIG. 3A) via second plate 115 causes an electric field E between the second plate 115 and the first plate 110, which induces electrowetting movement (e.g. pulling forces P) of droplet 130 to a new position within passageway 119 of the receptacle 102 corresponding to the location at which charges were applied.

[0046] As further shown in FIG. 1A, in some examples a shell 180 may be connected to, and extend from, the electrode control element 160 in order to form a chamber 184 for applying negative pressure NP. In particular, the shell 180 may comprise a side wall 182 having a size and shape to provide an adequate volume of space within chamber 184 for applying negative pressure NP, with the side wall 182 comprising end portions 186A, 186B to be secured relative to second side 165 of electrode control element 160. In some such examples, each end portion 186A, 186B may comprise a sealing element 188, gasket, or similar element such as O-ring to help seal the shell 180 relative to the electrode control element 160 to provide the sealed chamber 184. As further shown in FIG. 1A, the side wall 182 may comprises a sealable port 190 through which negative pressure (NP) may be applied, such as via an external negative pressure source (e.g. 149 in FIG. 1 C).

[0047] In general terms, it will be understood that a multitude of consumable microfluidic receptacles 102 may be stored separately from the electrode control element 160 and be available for use. Either prior to or after collecting a liquid sample (e.g. at least one liquid droplet 130) within the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 and electrode control element 160 may be brought into close proximity to each other within a distance X3 at gap 150 at which application of negative pressure NP would be effective to help releasably secure the respective receptacle 102 and electrode control element 160 together, as shown in FIG. 1 C.

[0048] As further shown in FIG. 1A, via application of negative pressure NP within chamber 180, negative pressure NP pulls air into and through apertures 180A (extending through the substrate 162 of electrode control element 160), into chamber 184, and out through port 190. This arrangement of applying negative pressure (e.g. vacuum pressure) draws the second plate 115 (including anisotropic conductivity portion 120) of consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 toward and against the first side 163 of the electrode control element 160 to cause the exterior surface 122 of the second plate 115 to become releasably secured relative to the first end portion 171 of the respective, separate electrodes 172A, 172B, 172C, 172D, as shown in the diagram 225 of FIG. 1C.

[0049] As further shown in FIG. 1 C, the exterior surface 122 of the second plate 115 is in pressing releasable contact against the side 163 of the electrode control element 160, as represented by arrow 152. In particular, an exterior surface 122 of the second plate 115 (including the anisotropic conductivity layer 120) is in releasable electrical connection with, and against, the end portions 171 of each respective electrode 172A, 172B, etc. In the arrangement, the application of negative pressure (as represented by the directional force arrows NP) may continue via apertures 180A, 180B, etc., chamber 184, and port 190 in order to maintain this established electrical connection for a selectable period of time to perform desired microfluidic operations in the receptacle 102.

[0050] FIG. 1 B is a top plan view schematically representing a portion of the example electrode control element 160 and the general relationship, spacing, and position of the respective electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. relative to each other and relative to the apertures 180A, 180B, etc. As shown in FIG. 1 B, the apertures 180A are located in the gap 167 between respective end portions 171 of adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B, etc., which are spaced apart along the first side 163 (e.g. top surface) of substrate 162 of the electrode control element 160. [0051] FIG. 2 is a diagram 250 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example consumable microfluidic receptacle 102. In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as, and/or an example implementation of, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 of FIGS. 1A, 1 C. [0052] In some examples, at least a portion of the first plate 110 (including layers 264, 266) may be grounded, i.e. electrically connected to a ground element 113, which is also later shown in other FIGS, such as element 113 in FIG. 3. In some examples, the first plate 110 may comprise a thickness (D3 in FIGS. 1 C, 2) of about 100 micrometers to about 3 millimeters, and may comprise a plastic or polymer material. In some examples, the first plate 100 may comprise a glass-coated, indium tin oxide (ITO). As noted later in association with at least FIG. 2B, the thickness (D3) of first plate 110 may be implemented to accommodate fluid inlets (e.g. 421 A, 423A, etc. in FIG. 4B), to house and/or integrate sensors into the first plate 110, and/or to provide structural strength. In some examples, the sensors may sense properties of the fluid droplets, among other information.

[0053] Instead of the entire first plate 110 (e.g. FIGS. 1 A, 1 C) being electrically conductive to serve as (or connect to) ground, as shown in FIG. 2 in some examples the first plate 110 of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 may comprise an electrically conductive layer 266, by which the first plate 110 may be electrically connected to a ground element 113. In some such examples, the electrically conductive layer 266 may comprise a material such an indium titanium oxide (ITO) which is transparent and may have a thickness D7 on the order of a few tens of nanometers.

[0054] While not shown in some Figures for illustrative simplicity, it will be understood that in some examples the electrically conductive layer 266 may form a portion of (or a coating on) the first plate (e.g. 110) in any one or all of the various example consumable microfluidic receptacles (of an example microfluidic device) of the present disclosure.

[0055] As further shown in FIG. 2, in some examples, microfluidic receptacle 102 may comprise a coating 264 which also additionally comprises a portion of first plate 110. In some examples, second plate 115 also may additionally comprise a second coating 262, with such coatings arranged to facilitate electrowetting movement of droplets 130 through the passageway 119 defined between the respective plates 110, 115.

[0056] In some examples, at least one of the respective coatings 264, 262 may comprise a hydrophobic coating, while in some examples, at least one of the respective coatings 264, 262 may comprise a low contact angle hysteresis coating. In some examples, a low contact angle hysteresis coating may correspond to contact angle hysteresis of less than about 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21 , or 20 degrees. In some examples, the contact angle hysteresis may comprise less than about 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, or 15 degrees. In some example implementations including coatings 264, 262, the previously mentioned oil filler is provided within the passageways 219A-219E, which further enhances the effect of the coatings 264, 262. In some examples, the coating 264 and coating 262 may have respective thicknesses of D6, D8 on the order of one micrometer, but in some examples the thicknesses D6, D8 can be less than one micrometer, such as a few tens of nanometers. In some examples, the thicknesses can be greater than one micrometer, such as a few micrometers.

[0057] As further shown in FIG. 2, in some examples the second plate 115 may further comprise a dielectric layer 260. In some examples, the combination of the coating 262 and the dielectric layer 260 may correspond to a first portion 268 of the second plate 115. Further details regarding the dielectric layer 260 are further described below in association with at least FIG. 3A.

[0058] In some examples, as further shown in FIG. 2 the receptacle 102 may further comprise adhesive layer 270 to facilitate securing an upper assembly (shell 105 and first plate 110 including layers 266, 264) relative to the second plate (e.g. anisotropic conductivity layer 120 and layers 260, 262).

[0059] As further shown in FIG. 2, in some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 may comprise spacer element(s) 274 at periodic locations or non-periodic locations between the first plate 110 and the second plate 115 to maintain the desired spacing between the respective plates 110, 115 and/or to provide structural integrity to the microfluidic receptacle 102. In some examples, the spacer element(s) 274 may be formed as part of forming one or both of plates 110, 115, such as via a molding process. Whether explicitly shown or not, it will be understood that such spacer element(s) 274 may form part of any of the other example microfluidic receptacles of the present disclosure.

[0060] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 2, the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 comprises a conductive-resistant medium 135 (e.g. partially conductive matrix) within which an array 132 of conductive elements 134 is oriented generally perpendicular to the plane (P2) through which the entire anisotropic conductivity layer 120 generally extends. In some examples, the conductive- resistant medium 135 (e.g. matrix) may comprise a bulk resistivity of about 10¹¹ Ohm-cm to about 10¹⁶ Ohm-cm. In some such examples, the conductive elements 134 may comprise a conductivity at least two orders of magnitude greater than a bulk conductivity of the conductive-resistant medium 135. In some examples, the resistant-conductive medium 135 of the layer 120 may comprise a plastic or polymeric materials, such as but not limited to, materials such as polypropylene, Nylon, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyurethane, epoxies, or other plastic materials which are low cost and available in a wide range of conductivities. In some examples, a bulk conductivity (or bulk resistivity) within the desired range noted above may be implemented via mixing into the plastic material some conductive carbon molecules, carbon black pigments, carbon fibers, or carbon black crystal. In some examples, the conductive-resistant medium 135 may comprise a resistivity of less than 10⁹ Ohm-cm in the perpendicular direction (direction B) to the plane P2, and a larger lateral resistivity (e.g. lateral conductivity) of at least 10¹¹ Ohm-cm (direction C along plane P2). Accordingly, the lateral conductivity is at least two orders of magnitude less than the conductivity of the conductive-resistant medium 135 in the direction perpendicular to the plane P2. Further details regarding the anisotropic layer 120 are later described below.

[0061] FIG. 3A is a diagram 300 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device and/or example method to cause electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet 130 within the consumable microfluidic receptacle 302 via application of charges from the external electrode control element 160.

[0062] In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 302 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102 as described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-2. Meanwhile, in some examples, the electrode control element 360 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the electrode control element 160, as described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-2, with it being understood that FIG. 3A depicts electrode control element 360 shown in dashed lines in a simplified form for illustrative simplicity and clarity to primarily demonstrate migration of charges 144A to induce electrowetting.

[0063] With this in mind, as shown in FIG. 3A, in some examples the electrode control element 360 comprises an array 370 of electrodes 372A, 372B, etc. which are like electrodes 172A, 172B etc., except depicted without showing the apertures 180A, 180B (FIGS. 1A-1 C), the example l-shaped configuration of electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. Accordingly, FIG. 3A simply depicts a first end portion 371 (like first end portion 171 in FIGS. 1A-2) of each electrode 372A, 372B (like electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. in FIGS. 1A-2) with it being understood that each respective electrode 372A, 372B, etc. may comprise additional portions such as in the example implementations of electrode control elements in FIGS. 1A-2C, FIGS. 5A-5B, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8B, 9A-9B.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 3A, upon the consumable microfluidic receptacle 302 and the electrode control element 360 being appropriately positioned relative to each other, via electrodes 372A, 372B, etc. the electrode control element 160 may apply charges 144A at exterior surface 122 of the second plate 115 (which corresponds to the exterior surface 122 of the anisotropic conductivity layer 120), which may then be referred to as initially deposited charges 144A. In some examples, the initially deposited charges 144A exhibit a first voltage V1 , which may sometimes be referred to as an applied voltage.

[0065] As further represented in FIG. 3A, the deposited charges 144A at exterior surface 122 of second plate 115 travel through the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 to an interface 135 (between the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 and the dielectric layer 134) to be further represented as deposited charges 144B. In the example anisotropic conductivity layer 120 of second plate 115, the conductive elements 134 are aligned generally parallel to each other, in a spaced apart relationship, in an orientation generally the same as the direction (arrow B) which the charges 144A at the exterior surface 122 (of second plate 115) are to travel through anisotropic conductivity portion 120 to reach the interface 135 with the dielectric layer 260 of the second plate 115. While the respective conductive elements 134 are shown as being oriented perpendicular to the plane P2, it will be understood that in some examples the conductive elements 134 may be oriented at a slight angle (i.e. slanted) which not strictly perpendicular. Further details are provided below regarding the anisotropic conductivity layer 120.

[0066] Upon such migration to interface 135, the charges 144B exhibit substantially the same voltage (e.g. V1 ) at the interface 135 as the charges 144A exhibited at exterior surface 122.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 3A, the deposited charges 144B are located at a target position shown in dashed lines T1 , which is immediately adjacent to the droplet 130. In some such examples, this target position may sometimes be referred to as a virtual electrode, at least to the extent that the dimensions/shape of the area over which the charges are deposited (and the applied voltage resides) may be viewed as being analogous to the dimensions/shape of an electrode pad.

[0068] With first plate 110 being grounded, counter negative charges 146A develop at the first plate 110 to cause an electric field (E) between the respective first and second plates 110, 160, which creates a pulling force (P) to draw the droplet 130 forward into the target position T1. In some examples, at least part of this arrangement includes the liquid droplet 130 being conductive (i.e. polar) in at least some examples, such that counter-charges 146B develop within the droplet 130 relative to charges 146A (at first plate 110) and countercharges 144C develop within the droplet 130 relative to charges 144B at interface 135 (between the dielectric layer 260 and the anisotropic conductivity layer 120) within the second plate 115. At least because of the charge differential between the charges 144B and 144C and between the charges 146A and 146B (which corresponds to a voltage differential between V1 and V2), a pulling force is created to pull the droplet 130 from the position (e.g. TO) into the target position T 1 . Stated differently, the droplet 130 is moved from one virtual electrode to the next/adjacent virtual electrode. Among other aspects, parameters (e.g. dielectric strength, thickness, etc.) associated with the dielectric layer 260 help to maintain the desired charge differential (or voltage differential) which induces the desired droplet movement.

[0069] In some examples, the pulling force (P), which causes movement of droplet 130 upon inducing the electric field (E), may comprise electrowetting forces. In some such examples, the electrowetting forces may result from: (1 ) modification of the wetting properties of the interior surface 121 of second plate 115 and/or surface 111 of plate 110 upon application of the electric field (E); (2) counter charges introduced in the droplet 130, which may result from electrical conductivity within the droplet 130 in some examples and/or from induced dielectric polarization within the droplet 130 in some examples; and/or (3) a minimization of the electrical potential energy due to charges in the system including as an example the minimization of the energy due to the counter charges 146A (e.g. negative) and the charges 144A (144B) (e.g. positive) in the case of a non-conductive droplet.

[0070] In some examples, the deposited charges 144B at second plate 115 may comprise between on the order of tens of volts and on the order of a few hundred volts of charges on the second plate 115. In some examples, the deposited charges 144B may comprise 1000 Volts. In some examples, the deposited charges 144B will dissipate, e.g. discharge upon electrode control element 160 applying opposite charges (e.g. negative charges) via the second plate 115, such as at interface 135. As the droplet 130 moves into the area of the charges (i.e. the target position T1 ), the electric field E drops due to an increased dielectric constant occurring in the effective capacitor which is formed between the respective first and second plates 110, 115. [0071] It will be further understood that before the next electrowetting-caused pulling movement of the droplet 130 occurs to the next target position T2, the charges (e.g. 144B) deposited on the second plate 115 (and/or at interface 135) will be significantly discharged or at least be discharged to a level at which their voltage is significantly lower than the voltage to be applied. In some examples, an additional deposit of charges may be used to neutralize residual charges so as to prepare the microfluidic receptacle (e.g. portion of a microfluidic device) to receive a deposit of fresh charges in preparation of causing further electrowetting movement of the droplet 130 to a next target position (e.g. T2). In particular, in some examples the electrode control element 160 may be used to discharge the charges 144B at interface 135 by applying an appropriate voltage of an opposite polarity for a period of time (e.g. 0.5 to 0.6 seconds), which results in the T1 locations of interface 135 being discharged to 0 Volts (or a minimal value).

[0072] In order to move the droplet 130 from target position T1 to T2, the electrode control element 160 generates and applies fresh charges 114A via a subsequent electrode (e.g. 372C) which is aligned with the target location T2 to create a voltage differential and electric field E to cause electrowetting movement of droplet 130 from position T1 to position T2. In this context, in some examples, the second voltage V2 remains substantially stable at least during the droplet-movement time period.

[0073] With many iterations of this arrangement using multiple adjacent electrodes of the electrode control element 160 in succession, a velocity of droplet movement may be achieved that falls within a range between about 0.5 mm/second and 200 mm/second. In some examples, the velocity of droplet movement may comprise between about 1 mm/second to about 30 mm/second. In some examples, the velocity of droplet movement may comprise between about 5 mm/second to about 20 mm/second. In some examples, the velocity of droplet movement may comprise at least about 10 mm/second.

[0074] For illustration, assuming a velocity of droplet movement of between about 1 mm/second and 30 mm/second, in some examples which an electrode has a length (e.g. D1 in FIG. 1A) of about 3 millimeters, one example droplet- movement time period may comprise between about 0.1 and about 3 seconds. In one example, the time period may comprise about 2 seconds.

[0075] With this general example arrangement in mind, further details regarding the dielectric layer 260, the anisotropic conductivity portion 120, and relationships regarding second plate 115 are described below. In some examples, the dielectric layer 260 may be an insulating material, comprising a resistivity of at least 10¹¹ Ohm-cm, and in some examples, at least 10¹³ Ohm- cm. In considering the behavior of a voltage differential across at least the dielectric layer 260 of second plate 115, it will be understood that in at least some examples the droplet 130 is generally electrically conductive and therefore droplet 130 generally sits at a voltage close to ground. In some such examples, in this context the droplet 130 may be considered to be conductive, having a resistivity less than 10⁷ ohm-cm. Given this general conductivity of the droplet 130, it will be further understood that the above-described, the applied voltage differential occurs entirely (or substantially entirely) across material within the second plate 115 which exhibits dielectric properties, such as the dielectric layer 260.

[0076] In some examples, the dielectric layer 260 may comprise a dielectric material having a thickness of at least about 10 micrometers (e.g. 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10.1 , 10.2, 10.3). In some examples, the dielectric layer 134 may comprise a dielectric material having a thickness of at least about 20 micrometers (e.g. 19.7, 19.8, 19.9, 20.1 , 20.2, 20.3). In some examples, the dielectric layer 134 may comprise a dielectric material having a thickness of at least about 50 micrometers (e.g. 49.7, 49.8, 49.9, 50.1 , 50.2, 50.3).

[0077] In some examples, the relative permittivity of the conductive-resistant medium 135 of the anisotropic layer 120 may be greater than about 20 (e.g. 19.5, 19.6, 19.7, 19.8, 19.9, 20, 20.1 , 20.2, 20.3, 20.4, 20.5). In some examples, the relative permittivity may be greater than about 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, or 75. In some instances, the relative permittivity may sometimes be referred to as a dielectric constant. Among other attributes, providing such relative permittivity may result in a lower voltage drop across the second plate 115. In some examples, the relative permittivity of the second plate 115 in the direction of the plane P2 may comprise lower than about 10. In some examples, it may comprise about 3.

[0078] As noted above, in some examples, the anisotropic layer 120 may comprise a low lateral conductivity (i.e. a conductivity along the plane P2, such as represented via directional arrow C) with a resistivity of at least 10¹¹ Ohm-cm (similar to the bulk conductivity). In some examples, this resistivity along the plane P2 (i.e. lateral conductivity) may comprise about 10¹⁴ Ohm-cm.

[0079] In some examples, the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 may comprise a high conductivity perpendicular (direction B) to the plane P, such as a resistivity which is on the order of, or less than, 10⁹ Ohm-cm. In some examples, this resistivity may comprise 10⁶ Ohm-cm. In at least some examples, the resistivity perpendicular to the plane P2 is at least about two orders of magnitude different from (e.g. lower) than the resistively along or parallel to the plane P2. In some such examples, this relatively high conductivity perpendicular to the plane P2 may sometimes be referred to as vertical conductivity with respect to the plane P2.

[0080] In comparison to the relatively high conductivity of the conductive resistant medium 135 perpendicular to the plane P2 (direction B), the abovenoted relatively low lateral conductivity (direction C) of the conductive resistant medium 135 may effectively force travel of the charges (applied by the electrode control element 160) to travel primarily in a direction (B) perpendicular to the plane P, such that the electric field E acting within the passageway 1 19 (i.e. conduit) may comprise an area (e.g. x-y dimensions) which are similar to the area (e.g. x-y dimensions) of each application of charges from the respective electrodes 372A, 372B of the electrode control element 160 directed to a specific target position (e.g. T1 , T2, etc.).

[0081] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3B, each respective conductive element 134 may comprise an array 347 of smaller conductive particles 348 which are aligned in an elongate pattern to approximate a linear element of the type shown as element 134 in FIGS. 2, 3A. The array 347 of elements 348 (e.g. particles) may sometimes be referred to as a conductive path. In some examples, the conductive particles 348 may comprise metal beads with each bead ranging from 0.5 micrometers to about 5 micrometers in diameter (or a greatest cross-sectional dimension). In some such examples, these smaller conductive particles 348 may be aligned during formation of the anisotropic layer 340 via application of a magnetic field until the materials (e.g. conductive particles, conductive-resistant medium) solidify into their final form approximating the configuration shown in FIGS. 3B-3C. In contrast to the bulk resistivity of the conductive-resistant medium 135 (FIGS. 2, 3A) of a resistivity of at least on the order of 10¹¹ Ohm-cm, the elongate pattern formed by array 347 of conductive particles 348 may comprise a resistivity of less than 10⁹ Ohm-cm in some examples. In some examples, the conductive particles 348 may comprise conductive materials, such as but not limited to iron or nickel. In some examples in which the conductive particles 348 are not in contact with each other, such particles 348 may be spaced apart by a distance F1 as shown in FIG. 3C, with such distances being on the order of a few nanometers in some examples. In some examples, the material (e.g. polymer) forming the conductive-resistant medium 145 of the anisotropic layer 120 of the second plate 115 is interposed between the respective conductive particles 348 of the array 347 (e.g. forming the elongate pattern) defining elements 334. In some such examples, because of this very small dimension F1 between at least some of the conductive particles 348, the conductive-resistance medium 145 interposed between the conductive particles 348 (and which would other exhibit a resistivity of at least on the order of 10¹¹ Ohm-cm in some examples) may comprise a conductive bridge (between adjacent particles 348) having a length less than about a micrometer and as such, may exhibit a much smaller resistivity which is several (e.g. 2, 3, or 4) orders of magnitude less than the resistivity otherwise exhibited by the conductive-resistant medium 135. Accordingly, even when some conductive resistant medium 135 is interspersed between some of the aligned conductive particles 348, the elongate pattern (e.g. array 347) of the conductive particles 348 still exhibits an overall conductivity perpendicular to the plane P2 (through which the second plate 115 extends) which comprises at least two orders of magnitude higher (e.g. greater) than the lateral conductivity along the plane P2. [0082] In some examples, because of the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 arrangement of second plate 115, the second plate 115 exhibits a response time which is substantially faster than if the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 were omitted in favor of a primarily dielectric material or made of a partially conductive material without the conductive elements 134.

[0083] In one aspect, the anisotropic conductivity configuration of second plate 115 either may enable faster electrowetting movement of droplets 130 through passageway 119 due to higher electrical field on the droplet resulting in higher pulling forces and/or may permit use of thicker second plates 115, as desired (i.e. increasing the thickness of second plate 160, 360). In one aspect, providing a relative thick/thicker second portion of the second plate 115 enables better structural strength, integrity, and/or better mechanical control of the gap between interior surface 111 of the first plate 110 and the interior surface 121 of the second plate 115. In some examples, the second plate 115 may comprise a thickness (D4) of about 30 micrometers to about 1000 micrometers. In some examples, the thickness (D4) may comprise about 30 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. In some examples, at least the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 of the second plate 115 may sometimes be referred to as a chargereceiving layer.

[0084] In one aspect, the anisotropic conductivity configuration (e.g. layer 120) forming at least a portion of second plate 115 in FIG. 3A stands in sharp contrast to at least some anisotropic conductive films (ACF) which may resemble a tape structure and involve the application of high heat and high pressure, which in turn may negatively affect the overall structure of the consumable microfluidic receptacle, such as but not limited to, any sensitive sensor elements or circuitry within the first plate 110. Moreover, at least some anisotropic conductive films (ACF) may be relatively thin and/or flexible such that they are unsuitable to stand alone as a bottom plate of a microfluidic device because they may lack sufficient structural strength and durability.

[0085] In some examples, both of the electrode control element 160 and the microfluidic receptacle 102 are stationary during microfluidic operations, with the electrode control element 160 being arranged in a two-dimensional array (e.g. FIG. 1 B) to deposit charges in any desired target area of the microfluidic receptacle 102 in order to perform a particular microfluidic operation or sequence of microfluidic operations. At least some example implementations of such a two-dimensional array may comprise at least some of the substantially the same features and attributes as described in association with at least FIGS. 4B.

[0086] FIG. 4A is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing an example consumable microfluidic device 400. In some examples, the microfluidic device 400 comprises at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as, and/or an example implementation including, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 in FIGS. 1A-3C. Accordingly, in some examples, the microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 in FIGS. 1A-3C may comprise at least a portion of the example microfluidic device 400 in FIGS. 4A- 4B.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 4A, the microfluidic device 400 comprises a housing or frame 405 within which is formed an array 414 of interconnected passageways 419A, 419B, 419C, 419D, 419E, with each respective passageway being defined by a series of target positions 417. In some examples, the respective passageways 419A-419E are defined between a first plate (like first plate 110 in FIGS. 1A-3C) and a second plate (like second plate 115 in FIGS. 1A-3C), with each target position 417 corresponding to a target position (e.g. T1 or T2) shown in FIGS. 1A-3C at which a droplet (e.g. 130 in FIGS. 1A-3A) may be positioned. In some examples, the length (e.g. D1 in FIG. 1A) of a target position (e.g. T1 , T2) of a droplet may be commensurate with the length (X2) of an electrode (e.g. 172A, 172B in FIG. 1A-1 C; 372A, 372B, etc. in FIG. 3A). Accordingly, in some examples, each target position 417 may comprise a length of about 50 micrometers to about 5000 micrometers (i.e. 5 millimeters), while in some examples the length may be about 100 micrometers to about 2500 micrometers. In some examples, the length may be about 250 micrometers to about 1500 micrometers. In some examples, the length may be about 1000 micrometers. Meanwhile, in some examples, each target position 417 (and hence each electrode) may have a width commensurate with the length, such as the above-noted examples.

[0088] Consistent with the examples noted in association with FIGS. 1 A-3C, the respective target positions 417 and the passageways 419A-419E (of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 shown in the example of FIG. 4A) do not include control electrodes for moving droplets 130. Rather, droplets 130 are moved through the various passageways 419A, 419B, 419C, 419D, 419E via electrowetting pulling forces caused by applying charges from the individually controllable electrodes 172A-172D (or 372A, 372B, 372C, 372D in FIG. 3A) of releasable contact, electrode control element 160, as previously described in association with FIGS. 1A-3C. Accordingly, via the use of such an externally- applied electric field, the droplet(s) 130 move through the passageways via pulling forces (e.g. electrowetting forces) without any on-board control electrodes lining the paths defined by the various passageways 419A-419E.

[0089] As further shown in FIG. 4A, at least some of the respective target positions 417, such as at positions 421 A, 421 B, 423A, and/or 423B may comprise an inlet portion which can receive a droplet 130 to begin entry into the passageways 419A-419E to be subject to microfluidic operations such as moving, merging, splitting, etc. In some examples, some of the example positions 421 A, 421 B, 423A, 423B may comprise an outlet portion, from which fluid may be retrieved after certain microfluidic operations.

[0090] It will be understood that in some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 of FIG. 4A may comprises features and attributes in addition to those described in association with FIGS. 1A-1 C. For example, in some instances, prior to receiving droplets 130, the consumable microfluidic device 400 may comprise at least one fluid reservoir R at which various fluids (e.g. reagents, binders, etc.) may be stored and which may be released into at least one of the passageways 419A-419E. In some examples, release of such reagents or other materials may be caused by the same externally-caused pulling forces as previously described to movement droplet 130. Moreover, in some examples, at least some of the passageways 419A-419E may form or define a lateral assay flow device in which some reagents, etc. may already be present at various target positions 417 within a particular passageway (e.g. 419A-419E) such that upon movement of various droplets 130 relative to such target positions 417 may result in desired reactions to effect a lateral flow assay. However, in some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 does not store any liquids on board, and any liquids on which microfluidic operations are to be performed are added, such as in the example inlet locations 421 A, 421 B, 423A, 423B, as previously described.

[0091] Via the externally-caused controlled movement of the respective droplets within the passageways 419A-419E, various microfluidic operations of moving, merging, splitting may be performed within consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 to cause desired reactions, etc. With this in mind, in some examples a portion of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 may comprise at least one sensor (represented by indicator S in FIG. 4A) to facilitate tracking the status and/or position of droplets within a consumable microfluidic receptacle, as well as for determining a chemical or biochemical result ensuing from the various microfluidic operations, such as merging, splitting, etc. In some such examples, such sensors may be incorporated into the first plate 110 (FIGS. 1A- 3C) so as to not interfere with the deposit of charges, transport of charges, neutralization of charges, etc. occurring at or through the second plate 115 (FIGS. 1A-3C). In some examples the sensor(s) may include external sensors, like optical sensors. In some such examples, such external sensors may be used to sense attributes of a fluid retrieved from an above-described outlet portion.

[0092] In some examples, such microfluidic operations to be performed via the consumable microfluidic receptacle 400 and an addressable electrode control element (e.g. 160, 360 in FIGS. 1A-3C) may be implemented in association with a control portion, such as but not limited to control portion 1300 in FIG. 10B and/or in association with an operations engine 1200 in FIG. 10A.

[0093] In some examples, as previously shown in FIGS. 1A-3C, each target position (e.g. T1 , T2, etc.) may comprise a length (X2) which may comprise a length expected to be approximately the same size (e.g. length D2) as the droplet 130 to be moved. In view of the example volumes of droplets noted above, the length (X2) of each target position (e.g. T1 , T2, etc.) may comprise between about 50 micrometers to about 5 millimeters, and may comprise a width similar to its length in some examples. In some examples, the target position also may sometimes be referred to as a droplet position. In some examples, each of the respective droplet positions also may sometimes be referred to as corresponding to the position, size, and/or shape of the below- described virtual electrodes (i.e. location where charges 144B are deposited to induce electrowetting movement) of the second plate or actual electrodes of the second plate 115.

[0094] In some examples, the length (D1 ) of the droplet in passageway 119 may sometimes be referred as a length scale of the droplet (or target position of a droplet). In sharp contrast to some other devices which utilize an array of active control electrodes and which involve spacing between adjacent control electrodes because of manufacturing limitations, in at least some examples of the present disclosure, the target positions (e.g. T1 , T2) may be immediately adjacent each other with virtually no spacing therebetween. Accordingly, at least some examples of the present disclosure do not face at least some of the challenges in moving droplets that may otherwise be posed by a distance between adjacent electrodes in such devices employing active control electrodes.

[0095] In some examples, the example arrangements of the present disclosure to cause electrowetting movement of droplets stand in sharp contrast to some microfluidic devices which rely on dielectrophoresis to produce movement of particles. At least some such dielectrophoretic devices comprise a distance between control electrodes (of a printed circuit board which form one of the microfluidic plates) which is substantially greater (e.g. 10 times, 100 times, etc. ) than a length scale (e.g. size) of a particle within a liquid to be moved. For instance, the distance between control electrodes (in some dielectrophoretic devices) may be on the order of hundreds (i.e. 100’s) of micrometers, whereas the length scale of such particles may comprise on the order of hundreds (i.e. 100’s) nanometers. In some such devices, the distance between electrodes in a dielectrophoretic device may sometimes be referred to as a length scale of such electrodes or as a length scale of the gradient (i.e. gradient length scale).

[0096] For comparison purposes to some dielectrophoretic devices, a droplet of liquid to be moved via electrowetting forces in at least some examples of the present disclosure may comprise a thickness between a first plate 110 and second plate 115 of about 200 micrometers, and a length (or width) extending across a target position (e.g. T1 , T2) (i.e. droplet position) of about 2 millimeters, in some examples. In sharp contrast, dielectrophoresis may cause movement of a particle within a mass of fluid, where such particle may be about 100 nanometers diameter (or length, width, or the like) and many particles may reside within a droplet of liquid. However, the dielectrophoretic device does not generally cause movement of an entire fluid mass.

[0097] FIG. 4B is a diagram including an isometric view schematically representing an example two-dimensional array of individually controllable electrodes, prior to releasable contact relative to, a portion of a consumable microfluidic receptacle. As shown in FIG. 4B an example arrangement 451 comprises a two-dimensional addressable electrode control element 460 in charging relation to a second plate 415 of a consumable microfluidic receptacle (e.g. 102 in FIGS. 1A, 1 C). In some examples, the addressable electrode control element 460 may comprise one example implementation of, and/or may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as, the addressable electrode control elements described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-3C and/or FIGS. 5A-9B. Meanwhile, the second plate 415 (and associated consumable microfluidic receptacle) may comprise one example implementation of, and/or may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as, the second plate 115 (and associated consumable microfluidic receptacle 102) described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-3C and/or FIGS. 5A-9B.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 4B, the example addressable electrode control element 460 comprises a two dimensional array 471 of individually controllable (e.g. addressable) electrodes 472. The array 471 comprises a size and a shape to cause controlled movement of droplets 130 to any one target position (e.g. 417 in FIG. 4A) of a corresponding array 458 of target droplet positions (e.g. 417 in FIG. 4A) implemented via the second plate 415 (of a consumable microfluidic receptacle). In some examples, at least some of the respective example addressable electrodes 472 of control element 460 may correspond to the example electrodes 172A-172D shown in FIGS. 1A-2 (also 372A-372D in FIGS. 3A-3C), which may be operated to apply charges (of a desired first polarity or opposite second polarity) in order to build charges on an exterior surface 422 of second plate 415 (of a consumable microfluidic receptacle) to cause a desired direction of movement of a droplet along a passageway (e.g. 419A-419E in FIG. 4A) within the consumable microfluidic receptacle. In some such examples, any one of the addressable electrodes 472 in FIG. 4B also may be operated in a charge neutralizing mode in which charges are emitted having a polarity (e.g. negative) opposite the polarity of the charges (e.g. positive) used to initiate an electrowetting movement of the liquid droplet 130.

[0099] Via the two-dimensional arrangement 451 shown in FIG. 4B, both the second plate 415 of the consumable microfluidic receptacle (e.g. 102) and the addressable electrode control element 460 remain stationary while the various respective electrodes 472 (of array 471 ) may be selectively operated (e.g. individually controlled) to control droplet movement for any or all of the target positions (e.g. 417 in FIG. 4A) of the second plate 415 (e.g. 115 in FIGS. 1A- 3C) of the consumable microfluidic receptacle.

[00100] FIG. 5A is a diagram 500 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element 560 including electrodes 572A-572D. In some examples, the electrode control element 560 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the electrode control element 160, 360 of FIGS. 1A-4B, except with electrode control element 560 comprising apertures 580A extending through a central portion 574 of electrodes 572A-572D instead of extending through substrate 162 independent of electrodes 172A-172D as in FIGS. 1A-3C. Moreover, it will be understood that other than the particular example implementation of the apertures 580A-580D and electrodes 572A-572D for electrode control element 560, in all other respects the electrode control element 560 of FIG. 5A-5B would interact in least some of substantially the same ways with the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as previously described in the examples of FIGS. 1A-4B.

[00101] Accordingly, upon application of a negative pressure NP (e.g. via port 190 of chamber 184 in FIG. 1 C) through apertures 580A-580D of the respective electrodes 572A-572D as shown in FIG. 5A, an anisotropic conductivity portion 120 of consumable microfluidic receptacle (e.g. 102 in FIGS. 1A-2; 302 in FIG. 3A) would become releasably secured relative to the first side 163 of electrode control element 560 in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 1C.

[00102] FIG. 5B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing the example electrode control element 560 which was illustrated in the side sectional view of FIG. 5A. As shown in FIG. 5B, the array 570 of electrodes 572A-572D (and other electrodes) is exposed on, and supported by, a first side 163 (e.g. top side) of the electrode control element 560 to be arranged in a grid (e.g. 2 x 4, 3 x4, 4 x 4, etc.) in which the respective electrodes are spaced apart (by gap 167) from each other by the distance X1 (e.g. FIGS. 1 A-1 B) and with the electrodes having a length X2.

[00103] Among other aspects, the example arrangement in FIGS. 5A-5B may simplify manufacture and/or assembly of the electrode control element 560, at least to the extent that it may be convenient to locate and form the apertures (e.g. 580A) as part of via defined by the central portion 574 of each electrode (e.g. 572A, 572B, etc.) which already extends between the first and second sides 163, 165 of the electrode control element 560.

[00104] As further shown in FIG. 5A, in some examples the electrode control element 560 may comprise control circuitry portion 569, which may be electrically connected to at least electrodes 572A, 572B, etc. in order to implement the generation and application of charges via the respective electrodes 572A, 572B, etc. in accordance with the examples of the present disclosure. The control circuitry 569 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features as, and/or be an example implementation of, the control portion 1300 described in association with at least FIGS. 10A-10C. While not shown explicitly in the other FIGS, it will be understood that the control circuitry portion 569 may be implemented with, and/or as part of, the electrode control elements in the other examples of the present disclosure.

[00105] FIG. 6A is a diagram 600 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element 660. In some examples, the electrode control element 660 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the electrode control element 160, 360 of FIGS. 1A-4B, except with electrode control element 660 comprising apertures 680A-680D extending through a lateral end portions 671 B of electrodes 672A-672D (respectively) of at least first side 163 of substrate 162 of electrode control element 660, as shown in FIG. 6A. This arrangement stands in contrast to the example implementation in FIGS. 1A-2 in which apertures 180A extend through control circuity portion 162 (between sides 163, 165) in a manner which is independent of electrodes 172A-172D as in shown in FIGS. 1A-2. Moreover, it will be understood that other than the particular example implementation of the apertures 680A-680D and respective electrodes 672A- 672D for electrode control element 660, in other respects the electrode control element 660 of FIG. 6A-6B would interact in at least some of substantially the same ways with the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as previously described in the examples of FIGS. 1A-4B with regard to releasably securing the receptacle 102 and electrode control element 660 relative to each other via application of negative pressure (NP).

[00106] With this in mind and as further shown in FIG. 6A, in some examples one end portion of an electrode (e.g. 672A) at first side 163 of control circuitry portion 660 may comprise a central end portion 671 A flanked by a pair of lateral end portions 671 B on opposite sides of the central end portion 671 A, with an aperture 680A extending through each respective lateral end portion 671 B. As further shown in FIG. 6A, in some examples another opposite end portion of an electrode (e.g. 672A) at opposite second side 165 of control circuitry portion 660 may comprise a central end portion 673A flanked by a pair of lateral end portions 673B on opposite sides of the central end portion 673A, with the same previously mentioned apertures 680A extending through each respective lateral end portion 673B.

[00107] As further shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the electrode control element 660 comprises a similar arrangement of a central end portion (e.g. 671 A, 673A) and lateral end portions (e.g. 671 B, 673B) for electrode 672B with respective apertures 680B, for electrode 672C with respective apertures 680C, and for electrode 672D with respective apertures 680D.

[00108] Meanwhile, a central portion 674 of each respective electrode (e.g. 672A, 672B, etc.) may comprise a solid or filled electronic via extending between the opposite first and second sides 163, 165 of the substrate 162 of the electrode control element 660.

[00109] Among other aspects, by applying negative pressure NP through opposite ends (e.g. 671 B) of an end portion of an electrode (e.g. 672A) such example arrangements may help provide an overall pattern of negative pressure which is generally more uniform across and along the anisotropic conductivity portion (e.g. 120) of the consumable microfluidic receptacle (e.g. 102 in FIG. 1A).

[00110] FIG. 6B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing the example electrode control element 660 of FIG. 6A, which was illustrated in the side sectional view of FIG. 6A. As shown in FIG. 6B, the array 670 of electrodes 672A-672D (and other electrodes) is exposed on, and supported by, a first side 163 (e.g. top side) of the substrate 162 of electrode control element 660 to be arranged in a grid (e.g. 2 x 4, 3 x4, 4 x 4, etc.) in which the respective electrodes are spaced apart from each other by the distance X1 (e.g. FIGS. 1A-1 B) and with the electrodes having a length X2. FIG. 6B also further illustrates a relationship of the central end portion 671 A and lateral end portions 671 B relative to apertures 680A and relative to each other. As shown in FIG. 6B, in some examples a given electrode (e.g. 672A) may comprise a plurality of apertures (e.g. four apertures 680A) but is not limited to the number of apertures (per electrode) shown in FIG. 6B.

[00111] FIG. 7A is a diagram 700 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element 760. In some examples, the electrode control element 760 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the electrode control element 560 of FIGS. 5A-5B (including example electrodes 572A-572D), except with electrode control element 760 comprising protrusions 777 located on the end portions 571 of the respective electrodes (e.g. 772A, 772B, etc.) . Moreover, it will be understood that other than the particular example implementation of the protrusions on end portions 571 , the electrodes 772A-772D for electrode control element 760, in other respects the electrode control element 760 of FIG. 7A-7B would interact in at least some of substantially the same ways with the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as previously described in the examples of FIGS. 1A-4B with regard to releasably securing the receptacle 102, 302 and electrode control element 760 relative to each other via application of negative pressure (NP).

[00112] As further shown in FIG. 7A, in some examples the protrusions 777 may be spaced apart from each other to form a recess 778 between adjacent protrusions 777 with a surface 579 of end portion 571 (of electrode 572A) defining a bottom of the recess 778, as shown for example electrode 572A. While not labeled in FIGS. 7A-7B for illustrative simplicity, it will be understood that the other electrodes 772B, 772C, 772D, etc. may comprise the same type of example arrangement including surface 579, recess 778, etc. In FIG. 7A, a particular number of protrusions 777 is depicted and as having a particular shape (e.g. rectangular) and/or spacing relative to each other. However, it will be understood that the protrusions 777 may comprise a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and may be implemented in a greater quantity or lesser quantity than shown in FIG.7A.

[00113] Among other aspects, this example arrangement may provide for establishing more robust electrical connection between the electrode control element 760 and the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 (FIGS. 1A-4B). In particular, in some circumstances dust or other debris may be encountered before or during intended contact between the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 and the electrode control element 760. In such situations and during attempted releasably securing of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 and electrode control element 760 relative to each other, some sliding or other maneuvering may occur. During such maneuvering, any dust or debris may fall into the recesses 778 between protrusions 777, which facilitates that the contact surface provided via the protrusions 777 may be free or relatively free from dust or debris and thereby able to form robust, direct electrical contact against the surface 122 of the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 of receptacle 102, 302.

[00114] FIG. 7B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing example electrode control element 760, which was illustrated in the side sectional view of FIG. 7A. As shown in FIG. 7B, the array 770 of electrodes (e.g. 772A, 772B, 772C, 772D, etc.) is exposed on, and supported by, a first side 163 (e.g. top side) of the electrode control element 760 to be arranged in a grid (e.g. 2 x 4, 3 x4, 4 x 4, etc.) in which the respective electrodes are spaced apart from each other by the distance X1 (e.g. FIGS. 1A-1 B) and with the electrodes having a length X2. FIG. 7B also further illustrates a relationship of the protrusions 777, which at least partially define the recesses 778 for capturing dust, debris, etc.. As shown in FIG. 7B, in some examples a given electrode (e.g. 772A) may comprise numerous protrusions 777 and associated recesses 778, but is not limited to the number of apertures (per electrode) shown in FIG. 7B.

[00115] FIG. 8A is a diagram 800 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example electrode control element 860. In some examples, the electrode control element 860 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the electrode control element 760 of FIGS. 7A-7B, except with the electrode control element 860 comprising electrically conductive compliant members 812A, 812B, 812C, 812D, etc. (instead of protrusions 777 in FIGS. 7A-7B) for establishing robust electrical contact. Moreover, it will be understood that other than the particular example implementation of the electrically conductive compliant elements (e.g. 812A, 812B, 812C) and electrodes 772A-772D for electrode control element 760, in all other respects the electrode control element 860 of FIG. 8A-8B would interact in at least some of substantially the same ways with the consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as previously described in the examples of FIGS. 1A-4B with regard to releasably securing the receptacle 102, 302 and electrode control element 860 relative to each other via application of negative pressure (NP).

[00116] In a manner analogous to the role of protrusions 777 in the example implementation of FIGS. 7A-7B, the electrically conductive compliant elements (e.g. 812A, 812B, etc.) in FIG. 8A may enhance establishing robust electrical contact despite the presence of any dust, debris, particles, etc. in, around, near the electrode control element 860 and/or anisotropic conductivity layer 120 (FIG. 1A-4B). In some examples, the electrically conductive compliant elements (e.g. 812A, etc.) may comprise a compliant (e.g. resilient) foam material such as, but not limited to, a polyurethane foam sheet. Among other aspects, the electrically conductive compliant elements (e.g. 812A, etc.) may withstand multiple loadings while maintaining their resilience, which is suitable for a high number of iterations of releasably securing the electrode control element 860 to relative to different consumable microfluidic receptacles.

[00117] In some examples, the electrically conductive compliant elements 812A, 812B, etc. are mounted on a consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as shown in FIG. 8B (such as by adhesive) instead of being mounted on the electrode control element 860 as in the example implementation of FIG. 8A. As shown in FIG. 8B, the spacing between the respective compliant members 812A, etc. corresponds to a position and spacing of the end portions 571 of the respective electrodes 572A, 572B, etc. of the electrode control element 560 in FIG. 5A. For example, a spacing of X1 exists between some compliant members, such as between one of the compliant members 812A and 812B with spacing X1 corresponding to the spacing between the end portions 571 of adjacent electrodes (e.g. 812A, 812B). Meanwhile, an end portion 571 may comprise a length X2, as previously described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-2. Moreover, a spacing X4 exists between adjacent compliant members 812A, 812B, with spacing X4 corresponding to a diameter of the aperture (e.g. 580A) formed in the central portion of the respective electrode (e.g. 572). Via these spacings (X1 , X2, X4) for the respective compliant members (e.g. 812A, 812B, etc.) as mounted on the surface 122 of the anisotropic conductivity layer 120 in the example of FIG. 8B, the compliant members (e.g. 812A, 812B) are sized and spaced to become aligned with correspondingly sized, shaped, and positioned end portions 571 , apertures 580A, etc. of the respective electrodes 572A, 572B of an electrode control element (e.g. 160 in FIGS. 1A-2).

[00118] FIG. 9A is a diagram 900 including a side sectional view schematically representing an example device 901 and/or example method at a moment in time just prior to releasably securing, via application of negative pressure, a consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 and an electrode control element 960 relative to each other. FIG. 9B is a diagram including a top plan view schematically representing the example negative pressure arrangement of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 in FIG. 9A. Finally, FIG. 9C depicts a moment in time during which the respective consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 and electrode control element 960 have been releasably secured relative to each other via the application of negative pressure according to examples of the present disclosure.

[00119] In some examples, the electrode control element 960 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the example electrode control element 160, 360 as previously described in association with at least FIGS 1 A-4B, except for omitting apertures 180A, 180B, 180C and further comprising springs 969A, 969B, which are further described below.

[00120] In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 may comprise at least some of substantially the same features as the example consumable microfluidic receptacle 102, 302 as previously described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-4B, except further comprising a negative pressure arrangement 940 as further described below in association with FIGS. 9A-9B.

[00121] As shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, in some examples the negative pressure arrangement 940 of consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 comprises port 957, chamber 956, and a network 952 of channels 954, all of which are in fluid communication with each other for applying negative pressure. In some examples, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 comprises an anisotropic conductivity portion 920, which comprises at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as anisotropic conductivity portion 120 (FIGS. 1A- 4B), except further comprising the network 952 of channels 954 being formed (e.g. molded) in a first surface 922 of the anisotropic conductivity portion 920. In some examples, the port 957 and the chamber 956 are located lateral to the anisotropic conductivity portion 120 and therefore lateral to the network 952 of channels 954.

[00122] In some examples, the respective channels 954 of network 952 are spaced apart and positioned relative to each other to generally correspond to a spacing between and relative position of the gaps 167 (between adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B, etc.) of the electrode control element 960.

[00123] In some such examples, each channel 954 of network 952 comprises a width (W1 in FIG. 9B) generally corresponding to the gap 167 (e.g. distance X1 ) between adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B, etc. However, in some examples, the width (W1) may be less than gap 167 or greater than the gap 167. Meanwhile, in some examples, a distance (W2 in FIG. 9B) between adjacent channels 954 may correspond to a length (X2) of the respective electrodes 172A, etc.

[00124] The respective channels 954 may comprise any one of a wide variety of cross-sectional shapes and are not limited to the particular cross- sectional shape depicted in FIG. 9A.

[00125] In one aspect, by arranging the pattern of “negative pressure” channels 954 within the anisotropic conductivity layer 920 to generally correspond to the pattern of gaps 167 between adjacent electrodes 172A, 172B, etc., the remaining portions 955 (FIG. 9B) of the anisotropic conductivity layer 920 remain unmodified to maximize their effectiveness in receiving and transferring charges from the surface of the end portions 171 of the electrodes 172A, 172B as each respective electrode 172A, 172B, etc. is selectively activated to cause electrowetting movement of the liquid droplet 130 within, and through, passageway 119 of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902A.

[00126] In some examples, as further shown in FIG. 9A, the shell 104 includes a wall portion 958 which at least partially defines chamber 956 with the wall portion 958 extending between the port 957 and the main portion 955 of the shell 104.

[00127] In some examples, the shell 104 defining the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902A comprises contact portions 987A, 987B on opposite sides of the receptacle 902, with each contact portion 987A, 987B comprising a sealing element 988, such as a gasket, O-ring, or the like.

[00128] As further shown in FIG. 9A, springs 969A, 969B are mounted on a second side 165 (e.g. bottom side) of the substrate 162 of the electrode control element 960, such as, adjacent opposite ends 967A, 967B of the electrode control element 960. In some such examples, each spring 969A, 969B is positioned in alignment with an expected application of downward force F on the contact portions 987A, 987B as shown in FIGS. 9A, 9C.

[00129] With this arrangement in mind, the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 and the electrode control element 960 are aligned relative to each other, as previously described such that the channels 954 of the network 952 become aligned with the gaps 167 between adjacent electrodes 172A,, 172B, as shown in FIG. 9A. In some such examples, a support (e.g. 133 in FIG. 1A) may be used to facilitate such alignment. In this aligned position, the force F is applied to move the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902 toward the electrode control element 960 to establish releasable contact therebetween as shown in FIG. 9C. In doing so, the springs 969A, 969B associated with electrode control element 960 provide resistance or counter pressure against the force F (applied via contact portions 987A, 987B of receptacle 902) to enhance the sealing created at sealing elements 988 between the contact portions 987A, 987B (of the shell 104/105 of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902) and the first side 163 (e.g. top surface) of the electrode contact element 960.

[00130] Upon establishing the sealing via the sealing elements 988 and associated contact portions 987A, 987B, negative pressure may be applied at port 957, which draws negative pressure (e.g. suction) via and through chamber 956, which draws negative pressure through the network 952 of channels 954. Collectively, this negative pressure draws the anisotropic conductivity layer 920 (of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902) and the side 163 of the electrode control element 960 toward each other until releasable contact is achieved and maintained between the anisotropic conductivity layer 920 and the electrode control element 960.

[00131] However, in at least some examples, the releasable securing of the receptacle 902 and the electrode control element 960 relative to each other is not achieved solely via the application of negative pressure NP. Rather, in some examples, the application of force F through (and at) contact portions 987A, 987B (of the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902A) and/or the springs 969A, 969B (associated with the electrode control element 960A) may cause, at least partially, some degree of releasable coupling between the consumable microfluidic receptacle 902A and the electrode control element 906A.

[00132] FIG. 10A is a block diagram schematically representing an example fluid operations engine 1200. In some examples, the operations engine 1200 may form part of a control portion 1300, as later described in association with at least FIG. 10B, such as but not limited to comprising at least part of the instructions 1311. In some examples, the operations engine 1200 may be used to implement at least some of the various example devices and/or example methods of the present disclosure as previously described in association with FIGS. 1 -9C and/or as later described in association with FIGS. 10B-11. In some examples, the operations engine 1200 (FIG. 10A) and/or control portion 1300 (FIG. 10B) may form part of, and/or be in communication with, an array of addressable electrodes of an electrode control element (e.g. 160, 360, etc.) and/or a consumable microfluidic receptacle (e.g. 102, 302, etc.), such as the devices and methods described in association with at least FIGS. 1 - 9C.

[00133] As shown in FIG. 10A, in some examples the operations engine 1200 may comprise a moving function 1202, a merging function 1204, and/or a splitting function 1206, which may track and/or control manipulation of droplets within a microfluidic device, such as moving, merging, and/or splitting, respectively. [00134] In some examples, the operations engine 1200 may comprise an electrode control engine 1220 to track and/or control parameters associated with operation of an addressable electrode array (including individually controllable electrodes) to build charges or neutralize charges on a consumable microfluidic receptacle (of a microfluidic device), as well as to track and/or control the polarity of such charges. In some examples, an alignment parameter (1232) is track and/or control alignment (e.g. via positioning) of an addressable electrode array to establish releasable contact against a consumable microfluidic receptacle to implement such building or neutralizing of charges. In some such examples, the alignment parameter 1232 may be implemented with support 133 as previously described in association with at least FIGS. 1 A-1 C.

[00135] In some examples, the operations engine 1200 may comprise a negative pressure parameter 1234 to control a timing, intensity, initiation, termination, etc. of applying negative pressure via the example arrangements to releasably secure a consumable microfluidic receptacle and an electrode control element relative to each other. In some examples, the intensity (e.g. amplitude) of applying negative pressure may comprise about 90 percent of ambient atmospheric pressure.

[00136] It will be understood that various functions and parameters of operations engine 1200 may be operated interdependently and/or in coordination with each other, in at least some examples.

[00137] FIG. 10B is a block diagram schematically representing an example control portion 1300. In some examples, control portion 1300 provides one example implementation of a control portion forming a part of, implementing, and/or generally managing the example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, apertures, chambers, negative pressure sources, consumable microfluidic receptacles, microfluidic operations, control portion, instructions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, as described throughout examples of the present disclosure in association with FIGS. 1A-10A and 10C-11. In some examples, control portion 1300 includes a controller 1302 and a memory 1310. In general terms, controller 1302 of control portion 1300 comprises at least one processor 1304 and associated memories. The controller 1302 is electrically couplable to, and in communication with, memory 1310 to generate control signals to direct operation of at least some of the example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, apertures, chambers, negative pressure sources, consumable microfluidic receptacles, microfluidic operations, control portion, instructions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, as described throughout examples of the present disclosure. In some examples, these generated control signals include, but are not limited to, employing instructions 1311 stored in memory 1310 to at least direct and manage microfluidic operations in the manner described in at least some examples of the present disclosure. In some instances, the controller 1302 or control portion 1300 may sometimes be referred to as being programmed to perform the above-identified actions, functions, etc.

[00138] In response to or based upon commands received via a user interface (e.g. user interface 1320 in FIG. 10C) and/or via machine readable instructions, controller 1302 generates control signals as described above in accordance with at least some of the examples of the present disclosure. In some examples, controller 1302 is embodied in a general purpose computing device while in some examples, controller 1302 is incorporated into or associated with at least some of the example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, consumable microfluidic receptacles, apertures, chambers, negative pressure sources, microfluidic operations, control portion, instructions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, etc. as described throughout examples of the present disclosure.

[00139] For purposes of this application, in reference to the controller 1302, the term “processor” shall mean a presently developed or future developed processor (or processing resources) that executes machine readable instructions contained in a memory or that includes circuitry to perform computations. In some examples, execution of the machine readable instructions, such as those provided via memory 1310 of control portion 1300 cause the processor to perform the above-identified actions, such as operating controller 1302 to implement microfluidic operations, apply negative pressure for releasable securement, etc. via the various example implementations as generally described in (or consistent with) at least some examples of the present disclosure. The machine readable instructions may be loaded in a random access memory (RAM) for execution by the processor from their stored location in a read only memory (ROM), a mass storage device, or some other persistent storage (e.g., non-transitory tangible medium or non-volatile tangible medium), as represented by memory 1310. The machine readable instructions may include a sequence of instructions, a processor-executable machine learning model, or the like. In some examples, memory 1310 comprises a computer readable tangible medium providing non-volatile storage of the machine readable instructions executable by a process of controller 1302. In some examples, the computer readable tangible medium may sometimes be referred to as, and/or comprise at least a portion of, a computer program product. In other examples, hard wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with machine readable instructions to implement the functions described. For example, controller 1302 may be embodied as part of at least one application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one field- programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or the like. In at least some examples, the controller 1302 is not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and machine readable instructions, nor limited to any particular source for the machine readable instructions executed by the controller 1302.

[00140] In some examples, control portion 1300 may be entirely implemented within or by a stand-alone device.

[00141] In some examples, the control portion 1300 may be partially implemented in one of the example microfluidic arrangements (e.g. addressable electrode control element and/or consumable microfluidic receptacle) and partially implemented in a computing resource separate from, and independent of, the example microfluidic arrangements (e.g. addressable electrode control element and/or consumable microfluidic receptacle) but in communication with the example microfluidic arrangements. For instance, in some examples control portion 1300 may be implemented via a server accessible via the cloud and/or other network pathways. In some examples, the control portion 1300 may be distributed or apportioned among multiple devices or resources such as among a server, an example microfluidic arrangement, and/or a user interface.

[00142] In some examples, control portion 1300 includes, and/or is in communication with, a user interface 1320 as shown in FIG. 10C. In some examples, user interface 1320 comprises a user interface or other display that provides for the simultaneous display, activation, and/or operation of at least some of the example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, apertures, chambers, negative pressure sources, consumable microfluidic receptacles, microfluidic operations, control portion, instructions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, etc., as described in association with FIGS. 1A-10B and 11. In some examples, at least some portions or aspects of the user interface 1320 are provided via a graphical user interface (GUI), and may comprise a display 1324 and input 1322.

[00143] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of an example method 1400. In some examples, method 1400 may be performed via at least some of the example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, apertures, chamber, negative pressure sources, consumable microfluidic receptacles, microfluidic operations, instructions, control portions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, etc. as previously described in association with at least FIGS. 1A-7C. In some examples, method 1400 may be performed via at least some example microfluidic arrangements, addressable electrode control elements, apertures, chamber, negative pressure sources, consumable microfluidic receptacles, microfluidic operations, instructions, control portions, engines, functions, parameters, and/or methods, etc. other than those previously described in association with at least FIGS. 1 A-10C.

[00144] As shown at 1412 in FIG. 11 , in some examples method 1400 comprises aligning an array of individually controllable electrodes of a substrate of an electrode control element to apply charges from the respective electrodes to an anisotropic conductivity portion of a consumable microfluidic receptacle to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within a conduit of the receptacle. As shown at 1414 in FIG. 11 , in some examples method 1400 comprises applying negative pressure through a plurality of apertures within at least one of the anisotropic conductivity portion and the substrate and through a chamber, in communication with the apertures, sealingly fixable to at least one of the receptacle and the substrate, to releasably secure the array of electrodes and the anisotropic conductivity portion relative to each other.

[00145] Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, a variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific examples shown and described without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific examples discussed herein.

Claims

43 CLAIMS

1 . A digital microfluidic assembly comprising: an electrode control element comprising: an array of individually controllable electrodes supported on at least a first side of a substrate; a chamber sealed relative to an opposite second side of the substrate; and a plurality of apertures extending through, and between the respective first and second sides of, the substrate and in communication with the chamber; a support to align a consumable microfluidic receptacle with the array of electrodes to receive charges on an anisotropic conductivity portion of the receptacle to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within the receptacle, wherein upon application of negative pressure through the chamber and the apertures, the array of electrodes becomes releasably secured against the receptacle.

2. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 1 , wherein each respective aperture extends through at least a portion of each respective electrode between the respective first and second sides of the substrate.

3. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 2, wherein each respective electrode comprises an electronic via defining the aperture, the electronic via comprising an electrically conductive pathway between the first and second sides of the substrate.

4. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 3, wherein each respective electrode comprises a contact portion exposed on the first side of the substrate, 44 wherein the contact portion comprises a plurality of ridges and recesses between adjacent ridges.

5. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 2, wherein each respective electrode comprises a contact portion exposed on the first side of the substrate, wherein the contact portion comprises each respective aperture at a location lateral to a central via of the electrode.

6. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 1 , wherein each respective aperture extends through the substrate in a first orientation and the respective apertures are spaced apart along a second orientation perpendicular to the first orientation, with the respective apertures interposed between adjacent electrodes.

7. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 8, wherein the anisotropic conductivity portion comprises a conductive-resistance matrix and a plurality of conductive paths spaced apart throughout the matrix and oriented perpendicular to a plane through which anisotropic conductivity portion extends.

8. A digital microfluidic assembly comprising: an electrode control element comprising: a planarized substrate including a first side and an opposite second side, the first side comprising at least a portion of each electrode of an electrode array of individually controllable electrodes; an array of apertures extending through the substrate; a consumable microfluidic receptacle including at least one conduit and an anisotropic conductivity portion to receive charges from the electrode array to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within the at least one conduit of the consumable microfluidic receptacle; a chamber sealable relative to the second side of the substrate and in fluid communication with the apertures, 45 wherein upon application of negative pressure through the chamber and the apertures, the electrode array and the anisotropic conductivity portion become releasably secured against each other.

9. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 8, wherein each respective aperture extends through at least a portion of each respective electrode between the respective first and second sides of the substrate, and wherein at least one of: each respective electrode comprises a via defining the aperture, the via comprising an electrically conductive pathway between the first and second sides of the substrate; or wherein each respective electrode comprises a contact portion exposed on the first side of the substrate, wherein the contact portion comprises each respective aperture at a location lateral to a central via of the electrode.

10. The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 8, wherein each respective aperture extends through the substrate in a first orientation and the respective apertures are spaced apart along a second orientation perpendicular to the first orientation, with the respective apertures interposed between adjacent electrodes.

11 . The digital microfluidic assembly of claim 8, comprising: conductive foam portions mountable on at least one of: the respective electrodes of the electrode control element; and the anisotropic conductivity portion of the receptacle.

12. A method comprising: aligning an array of individually controllable electrodes of a substrate of an electrode control element to apply charges from the respective electrodes to an anisotropic conductivity portion of a consumable microfluidic receptacle to induce electrowetting movement of a liquid droplet within a conduit of the receptacle; and applying negative pressure through a plurality of apertures within at least one of the anisotropic conductivity portion and the substrate and through a chamber, in communication with the apertures, sealingly fixed to at least one of the receptacle and the substrate, to releasably secure the array of electrodes and the anisotropic conductivity portion relative to each other.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising: applying the negative pressure through the respective apertures, which extend between a first side and an opposite second side of the substrate, and defined by at least one of: electrically conductive vias extending through a central portion of the respective electrodes; and electrically non-conductive portions extending through the substrate.

14. The method of claim 12, comprising: applying the negative pressure through the respective apertures defined by the anisotropic conductivity portion of the consumable microfluidic receptacle, with the respective apertures connected to each other to form channels in a plane though which the anisotropic conductivity portion extends and with the chamber enclosing the consumable microfluidic receptacle.

15. The method of claim 14, comprising: implementing the application of negative pressure via a port in fluid communication with the chamber with the port and the chamber being located lateral of a network of the channels and lateral of the anisotropic conductivity portion.