A sample digitization method that exploits the controlled pinning of fluid at geometric discontinuities within an array of staggered microfluidic traps is presented. The staggered trap design enables reliable sample filling within high aspect ratio microwells, even when employing substrate materials such as thermoplastics that are not gas permeable. A simple geometric model is developed to predict the impact of device geometry on sample filling and discretization, and validated experimentally using fabricated cyclic olefin polymer devices. Using the developed design guidelines, a 768-element staggered trap array is demonstrated, with reliable passive loading and discretization achieved within 5 min. The resulting discretization platform offers a simplified workflow with flexible trap design, reliable discretization, and repeatable operation using low-cost thermoplastic substrates.

中文翻译：

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交错的捕集器阵列可实现强大的微流体样品数字化

提出了一种样本数字化方法，该方法利用了交错的微流体阱阵列中几何不连续点处流体的受控钉扎作用。交错的捕集阱设计即使在采​​用不透气的热塑性塑料等基材时，也可以在高深宽比的微孔内可靠地填充样品。开发了一个简单的几何模型来预测器件几何形状对样品填充和离散化的影响，并使用制造的环状烯烃聚合物器件进行了实验验证。使用已开发的设计指南，演示了768个元素的交错陷阱阵列，并在5分钟内实现了可靠的被动加载和离散化。最终的离散化平台可提供简化的工作流程，包括灵活的陷阱设计，可靠的离散化，