BARRETO NETO, A. G. S.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/8808413435102315; BARRETO NETO, Arlindo Garcia de Sá.
Résumé:
This paper deals with conception, design, development and implementation of propulsion
components for micro-fluidic systems that operate within the flow rate range from 30 l=min
to 70 ml/min. Three principles of flow propulsion have been investigated: a valve free linear
and bidirectional peristaltic pump, driven by three actuators; a unidirectional diaphragm
pump that comprises the nozzle/diffuser structure; and the vacuum pump, driven by a single
actuator. In order to develop an optimized flow propulsion system, a new design methodology
has been implemented. It relies on a finite-element based simulation approach to assess
crucial mechanical and flow design features, associated with the fluid transport system. The
mechanical design study basically considers the generation of forces, required to squeeze or
deform tubings and membranes by means of electric or magnetic fields, i.e., the definition
of an appropriate actuator design. Furthermore, the mechanical design study explores and
defines the appropriate geometric spacing as well as the optimum number of actuators to
provide bidirectional flow, without the use of flow valve control. The fluid-dynamic design
aims to define the optimal sequence of drive actuators in order to provide a better pump
performance of the outlet flow. Also a computational model based on fluid-structure interaction
has been used in this design. On the other hand, a computational model has
been also developed for the vacuum pump design, by using a multiphase (air/water) flow
approach. It aims to evaluate the outlet flow behavior with the presence of oscillations
and as a function of the air input. For the conception of the diaphragm pump, the design
methodology previously used for the peristaltic pump has been adopted with a few modifications
to fit the pump type. Eventually, hardware circuits were designed in accordance of
the simulation results. These results have shown good agreement with experimental data,
which validates the developed methodology and modeling.