U.S. patent application number 17/306894 was filed with the patent office on 2021-08-19 for reconfigurable apparel manufacture and business process.
The applicant listed for this patent is Daniel Kincade, Zeyad Moussa, Benjamin Sullivan, Nicole Justis Truitt. Invention is credited to Daniel Kincade, Zeyad Moussa, Benjamin Sullivan, Nicole Justis Truitt.
Application Number | 20210251338 17/306894 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005557091 |
Filed Date | 2021-08-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210251338 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Truitt; Nicole Justis ; et
al. |
August 19, 2021 |
Reconfigurable Apparel Manufacture and Business Process
Abstract
Provided herein are methods for the modulation of appearance or
material properties within items of apparel or equipment. Also
provided herein are design articles having alterable designs.
Inventors: |
Truitt; Nicole Justis; (San
Diego, CA) ; Sullivan; Benjamin; (San Diego, CA)
; Moussa; Zeyad; (San Diego, CA) ; Kincade;
Daniel; (Encinitas, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Truitt; Nicole Justis
Sullivan; Benjamin
Moussa; Zeyad
Kincade; Daniel |
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
Encinitas |
CA
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005557091 |
Appl. No.: |
17/306894 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15594657 |
May 15, 2017 |
10993503 |
|
|
17306894 |
|
|
|
|
13984644 |
Oct 25, 2013 |
9675135 |
|
|
PCT/US12/24753 |
Feb 10, 2012 |
|
|
|
15594657 |
|
|
|
|
61443667 |
Feb 16, 2011 |
|
|
|
61442142 |
Feb 11, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B81C 1/00119 20130101;
A43B 3/0078 20130101; G02B 5/24 20130101; B29C 66/438 20130101;
B29C 66/244 20130101; A41D 27/08 20130101; G02B 26/004 20130101;
B29C 66/73152 20130101; A43B 23/026 20130101; G09F 13/24 20130101;
A43B 1/0027 20130101; A41D 27/00 20130101; B29C 66/712 20130101;
A43B 23/0205 20130101; G09F 21/02 20130101; B44C 5/00 20130101;
B29C 66/7392 20130101; A43B 3/242 20130101; Y10T 137/87169
20150401; A43B 23/0245 20130101; A43B 3/0005 20130101; A43B 23/24
20130101; A43B 23/0215 20130101; B29C 65/18 20130101; Y10T 156/10
20150115; B29C 66/742 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 23/02 20060101
A43B023/02; B81C 1/00 20060101 B81C001/00; A41D 27/08 20060101
A41D027/08; G02B 5/24 20060101 G02B005/24; G02B 26/00 20060101
G02B026/00; G09F 13/24 20060101 G09F013/24; A43B 1/00 20060101
A43B001/00; A43B 3/00 20060101 A43B003/00; A43B 3/24 20060101
A43B003/24; G09F 21/02 20060101 G09F021/02; A41D 27/00 20060101
A41D027/00; A43B 23/24 20060101 A43B023/24; B44C 5/00 20060101
B44C005/00 |
Claims
1. A process for preparing a design element or design article, the
process comprising: providing a first material that is configured
in a channel network; and laminating a second material onto the
first material.
2. The process of claim 1, wherein a first thermoplastic material
is of a harder or softer durometer than a second thermoplastic
material.
3. The process of claim 1, wherein a second thermoplastic material
is laminated onto the first metal foil material using heat and/or
pressure.
4. The process of claim 1, wherein a connector is overmolded to the
channel network.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Nos. 61/442,142, filed 11 Feb. 2011, and 61/443,667, 16
Feb. 2011, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in
their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Provided herein are methods of manufacturing and marketing
items that contain embedded microfluidic channel networks in order
to modulate the appearance or material properties within said items
of apparel or equipment. In particular, the present invention
relates to manufacturing and marketing methods thereof, including
(1) methods of construction and use of the microfluidic channel
network (e.g., specialized methods suitable for the apparel and
design articles described herein), (2) methods of construction and
use of a manually actuated docking station, (3) the distribution of
content codes (e.g., through downloadable configuration files,
podcasts, celebrity podcasts, social crowdsourcing, propagation
through social networks or the like).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] There has always been the desire to express oneself through
color. The ability to modulate the appearance or material
properties of apparel, equipment or other items had previously
required discrete components, for instance distinct pairs of shoes
to coordinate with different outfits, different belts, or different
color vehicles. Further, apparel, sporting equipment and other
items are often provided for consumption in a manner illustrating
one or more design feature. Generally, such design features are
immutable. Consumers wishing to have a different design feature on
an article that they already own are generally forced to purchase a
second version of the article. The purchase of two or more versions
of an identical article to simply provide a new design is extremely
inefficient. Provided herein are articles and methods whereby such
inefficiencies are overcome.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Provided herein are articles having one or more design
element that is capable of being modified. In some instances, an
article or design element provided herein comprises a fluidic
circuit. Generally, such fluidic circuit has at least one opening
(e.g., inlet and/or outlet) through which fluid may transgress
(e.g., ingress through an inlet and egress through an outlet). In
specific instances, such fluidic circuits are liquid circuits. In
further or alternative embodiments, such fluidic circuits are
microfluidic circuits.
[0005] In items such as apparel (e.g., footwear, shoes, belts,
backpacks, hats, bracelets, wristbands, shirts, scarves, jewelry,
glasses, materials for apparel, release papers, fibers, etc.),
equipment (e.g., skateboards, rollerblades, snowboards, gloves,
pads, appliances, computers, electronics, gadgets, toys, etc.), and
other three-dimensional objects (signs, corporate art, corporate
logos, military vehicles, military gear, military installations,
helmets, vehicle body panels, housewares, furniture, tabletops,
walls, paintings, etc.), embodiments of the present invention
provide for incorporation of one or a plurality of microfluidic
circuits within the item to allow for the modulation of color or
other material properties of the item. In specific embodiments,
this modulation can be readily achieved by the user of the
item.
[0006] In one embodiment, a microfluidic circuit provided for
herein wraps around a substructure (e.g., a design element) of the
item. In some instances, inlets to, and outlets from a microfluidic
circuit provided herein are co-located within a port portion of the
item. In certain embodiments, the inlets and outlets carry valves,
caps, or other seals to mitigate evaporation or backflow. In some
instances, a port facilitates connection of the microfluidic
circuit to a docking station. In some embodiments, a useful port
provides for a well-sealed interface between the microfluidic
circuit and a docking station (e.g., between inlet and/or outlet of
the microfluidic circuit and a connector emanating from a docking
station). In specific embodiments, the connector is the male
complement to a female port. In certain embodiments the docking
station comprises a pump, a mixer, valves, one or more color
cartridge(s), a connector, a waste compartment, a computer
controlled interface, a combination thereof, or all of the above.
In certain embodiments, a user may select a color or a combination
of colors that are mixed within the docking station and dispensed
through the microfluidic circuit of the item. In other embodiments,
the docking station is comprised of pressurized cartridges that
dispense and collect fluid when connected to the item. In certain
embodiments, the docking station is comprised of a manually
actuated cartridge, which upon actuation, creates positive or
negative pressure within the microfluidic circuit to move fluid
throughout the article. In one embodiment, the cartridge contains
two chambers; a vacuum chamber and a fluid filled chamber, and upon
actuation some or all of the old fluid from the article flows into
the vacuum chamber while being displaced by fluid emanating from
the cartridge fluid chamber. In yet another embodiment, the
cartridge contains one or more syringe plungers to allow the user
to actuate either positive or negative pressure in order to produce
fluid flow within the microfluidic circuit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is one preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1
shows shoe 1001 with two microfluidic circuits 1002 and 1003. FIG.
1A shows the shoe without color within the microfluidic circuit.
FIG. 1B demonstrates the results if the first circuit 1002 has been
filled with a dark color and circuit 1003 filled with a light
color. FIG. 1C shows circuit 1002 filled with a dark color and
circuit 1003 filled with a medium luminosity color.
[0008] FIG. 2 shows one preferred embodiment of the construction of
the shoe. The microfluidic circuit 2001 provides a fluidic path
that wraps around the entire shoe. Valve 2002 allows access to the
microfluidic circuit. When the microfluidic circuit is fastened to
shoe 2003, the valves 2002 can be recessed within the back, heel,
sole, or underside of the shoe to be inconspicuous. Moreover,
partial extents of the microfluidic circuit can be hidden
underneath successive layers of shoe 2003 to help shape the final
design elements.
[0009] FIG. 3 shows one preferred embodiment of the microfluidic
circuit in operation: changing from a dark color to a lighter
color. When docked, the inlet valve 3001 and outlet valve 3002
allow lighter colored fluid to displace the darker colored fluid
that previously filled the micro fluidic circuit. Because certain
extents of the circuit are hidden beneath successive layers of the
shoe, the user may not see the color move around the toe of the
shoe in this embodiment. Air or other spacer fluids can be pumped
through the microfluidic circuit to segregate successive
colors.
[0010] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the inlet valve 4001, and the
outlet valve 4002 hidden within a recessed port 4003. The port 4003
serves to protect the valves from daily wear and assists in the
mechanical coupling to the connector. The shoe in FIG. 4 contains a
single microfluidic circuit.
[0011] FIG. 5 shows a plurality of inlet valves 5001 and outlet
valves 5002 hidden within a recessed port 5003. In this embodiment
the shoe contains a plurality of microfluidic circuits to enable
independent control of colors within specific extents of the item.
In certain embodiments, a plurality of microfluidic circuits would
converge at low pressure nodes to simplify connections to the
item.
[0012] FIG. 6 shows an example of a connector 6001 structure with a
plurality of inlets and outlets 6002 that are integrated into a
single manifold. The connector slides into the port 6003. The two
pieces snap into place via a male/female locking mechanism 6004.
The mating of the connector to the port pushes back a
spring-mounted seal 6005 that opens the circuit on the port side
6006. The seal also provides sufficient pressure on the connector
to facilitate a leak-free fluidic connection between the channels
on the two sides. The connector may have an additional seal on top
of the manifold to assist in preventing leaks. The connector may
also carry electrical signals to allow feedback upon
connection.
[0013] FIG. 7 shows an example of a microfluidic circuit 7001 with
a mixer 7002 to facilitate homogeneous distribution of fluid within
the microfluidic circuit.
[0014] FIG. 8 shows an example of a microfluidic circuit 8001
consisting of a plurality of microfluidic channels. In certain
embodiments, each channel could be constructed of a semi-circular
cross-section to act as a lens. In certain embodiments, the flat
underside of the microfluidic circuit closest to the shoe could
contain a reflective layer to enhance the visible color. In certain
embodiments, the microfluidic circuit is comprised of a single
channel that fills the desired area.
[0015] FIG. 9 shows an example of a microfluidic circuit 9001 with
a single serpentine channel 9002. The serpentine channel widths
would be roughly 0.35-1.05 mm, while the inter-channel (wall)
spacing would be on the order of 0.40-0.45 mm.
[0016] FIG. 10 shows a reduction to practice of a microfluidic
circuit with a single serpentine channel integrated into a shoe.
When viewed up close, individual turns of the serpentine channel
are visible. When viewed from afar, the color of the microfluidic
circuit appears continuous in this embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 11 is an example of an embodiment of the docking
station, with a pump and a plurality of valves. In this
configuration, the valves inside of the docking station change the
resistance to flow of each line, in order to modulate the fluid
that is pushed through the circuit. When connected, the pressure
generated in the docking station opens the valves in the item,
which allows fluid flow to progress throughout the extent of the
item, returning into the docking station to be collected in the
waste compartment. The waste compartment may contain an opening to
air (e.g., to allow displacement), a bag, syringe plunger,
hydrogels, or other compliant element or material element.
[0018] FIG. 12 is an example of a dock configuration with a pump
that pulls the fluid through the circuit. Actuation valves change
the resistance of the fluid lines to modulate the level of each
type of fluid being pulled through the circuit.
[0019] FIG. 13 is an example of a dock configuration with
independent pumps on each of the fluid lines. No actuation valves
are included. As in FIG. 12, another embodiment would place a
negative pressure pump on the waste side. Such an embodiment would
encompass manually actuated cartridge docking stations that do not
carry a mixer element.
[0020] FIG. 14 is an example of a mixer configuration with a
roughened channel, and input ports 14001 connected to the fluid
cartridges (not shown). The roughened channel 14002 enables mixing.
For instance, chaotic flow induced by herringbone grooves along the
bottom of the channel would spatially compress mixing. Fluid exits
the mixer into the connector 14003, flows through the microfluidic
circuit, then returns through the connector into the waste
compartment.
[0021] FIG. 15 is an example of another mixer configuration that
takes advantage of flow splitting and recombination 15001 to
promote mixing within a compressed path length.
[0022] FIG. 16 gives an example of a time series of valve
actuations in a temporal modulation paradigm.
[0023] FIG. 17 gives an example of a workflow for changing the
color of an item. The user would connect a computer 17001 (or
iPhone, in the example) to the docking station through USB
connector 17003. The user attaches the fluidic connector 17004 to
the port of the shoe 17005. Upon connection, the connector
illuminates to provide feedback to the user that the connection has
been made 17006. Using the graphical user interface on the computer
17001, the user selects the extent of the item they would like to
change 17007, then command the docking station to deliver the
appropriate color. The dock can be configured to fill one or more
items at a time. In the case of shoes, the dock can be configured
to fill two shoes at once.
[0024] FIG. 18 is an example of a lamination process to create a
microfluidic channel network with an integrated connector.
[0025] FIG. 19 is an example of virtual panels within a single
item. A traditional shoe upper 1901 may contain a series of
different panels delineated by stitching patterns. In this
embodiment, a single microfluidic circuit 1902 weaves its way
through the shoe upper, beginning and terminating in a single
inlet/outlet pair 1903. Microfluidic circuit 1902 features varying
densities and patterns of the circuit to produce an illusion that
multiple panels exist when only a single continuous channel exists.
When different colors are sequentially pulled through the circuit,
for instance a darker color 1904 and a lighter color 1905, the
colors reinforce the optical illusion that different virtual panels
exist.
[0026] FIG. 20 is an example of a manually actuated docking station
with an integrated connector. In this embodiment, the docking
station is comprised of a fluid cartridge 2001 and a waste
cartridge 2002. The user would pull back on the plunger assembly
2003 to actuate the ratcheted syringe 2004 and a create a vacuum
within waste compartment 2002. In one embodiment, an absorbent
material, such as hydrogels, is contained in the waste cartridge
2002 to prevent spillage or backflow. As the vacuum is created, the
syringe nub 2005 moves to displace the colored fluid. The syringe
nub 2005 also serves to keep the fluid sealed from the environment
during storage. A benefit of this design is the minimal dead volume
in the coupling of male connector 2007 to female connector 2008
that minimizes spillage risks. As the ratcheted syringe 2004 is
pulled back, it can be finely tuned for some length until the
ratchet teeth move past the ratchet cap 2006, wherein the syringe
can no longer be pushed forward. The ratcheting ensures that the
cartridge is used only a few times before recycling. The male
connector 2007 interfaces with the female connector 2008, shown
here embedded within a mobile phone case, with an embedded
microfluidic channel network 2009, shown in cross sectional and
planar view. In one embodiment, the connector 2007 is further
comprised of external O-ring seals to provide for a sound fluidic
seal.
[0027] FIG. 21 is another example of a manually actuated docking
station with an integrated connector. In this embodiment, the
connector is comprised of a freely rotating screw ring 2101 snapped
onto the female tapered connector body 2102 that allows the user to
form a strong fluidic seal. The male connector 2103 also has
tapered ports that mate to the corresponding taper grade of the
female connector 2102 and create a tapered interference fit. The
interference between the tapered ends helps complete a sound
fluidic seal.
[0028] FIG. 22 is an example of a self sealing dry break connector
with integrated microfluidic inlet and outlet fluid paths. In this
embodiment, the male connector housing 2201 contains a spring 2202,
or other force element, that pushes against a sealing ring 2203
that, when extended, closes off the fluid lines 2204 of the
connector. The female counterpart has a screw thread 2205 that
aligns the male connector, a sealing cap 2206 and associated spring
2207, or other force element, that when disconnected, shuts off
flow in the female fluid lines 2208. A benefit of this design is
the minimal dead volume resulting from the microfluidic lines being
small enough to feed into the threading of the screw. Further, the
spring, or other force element, loaded sealing cap 2206 provides a
means to wipe clean the female fluid lines of dried fluid during
connecting and disconnecting. This same self cleaning happens on
the male side from screw thread 2205.
[0029] FIG. 23 is an example of magnetic connectors with integrated
microfluidic inlet and outlet fluid paths. In this embodiment, a
spring 2301, or other force element, upper cap 2302 and upper seal
2303 are housed within upper body element 2304. When disconnected,
the spring 2301, or other force element, closes off the fluidic
path 2305 by pressing the upper cap assembly up against the magnet
2306. An actuator pin 2307 with embedded fluidic channels passes
through stud 2308, which is further coupled to an O-ring 2309 to
provide for a firm fluidic seal when connected. In this embodiment,
when placed in close proximity to the bottom half of the connector,
the upper magnet 2306 couples with the steel (or other ferritic or
magnetic material) 2310 embedded in the lower base 2311. This
magnetic force simultaneously couples the upper and lower halves of
the connector, and through action of the actuator pin, displaces
lower seal 2312 and follower 2313 against spring 2314, or other
force element, which are housed in the lower base 2315. This
balance of forces opens the fluidic path 2316, and completes the
fluidic circuit. In this embodiment, when disconnected, the springs
(or bushings, pneumatic elements, etc.) press the seals back into
place and create a dry break seal.
[0030] FIG. 24 is an example of multiple stacked circuits and
multiple connectors within a single item. In this embodiment, two
microfluidic circuits are embedded within the vertical extent of a
mobile phone case. A mobile device 2401 is placed within case
housing 2402 and pressed up against the case backing 2403. On the
backside of the case, micro fluidic circuits 2404 and 2405 combine
to form a checkerboard pattern. When different colors are
sequentially pulled through the circuit, the combination of colors
produces a unique user defined case. In certain embodiments, there
are separate connectors for each circuit, in this case, connector
2406 would allow access to microfluidic channel 2405 while
connector 2407 would allow access to microfluidic circuit 2404. In
addition, in this embodiment, each connector would be sealed when
not in use by a thumb screw cap 2408.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Methods of Construction and Use of a Microfluidic Channel
Network
[0031] Provided in certain embodiments herein are design articles
(such as any article described herein) comprising one or more
microfluidic channel network in or on (e.g., on the surface of) the
design article. In some instances, in order to create large-format
microfluidics (e.g., suitable for providing large format design on
a design article), one or more microfluidic channel networks is
woven through (e.g., through or over the surface of) the item of
interest. In one embodiment, large-format microfluidics are
accomplished by weaving a small outer diameter tube into a pattern,
encasing the patterned tube within an exterior matrix such as a
transparent polymer of similar refractive index, and exposing the
two ends of the tube outside the matrix for fluidic connection. In
another embodiment, multiple tubes are encompassed or woven into or
atop the matrix. In some instances, the multiplicity of input ends
and of output ends of the tubes are aggregated into domains for
fluidic connection. In some instances, such as in some embodiments
of apparel or shoes, the microfluidic circuit material is on the
order of one to two square feet in size. In other embodiments,
however, any suitable sized material is optionally utilized.
Provided in certain embodiments herein is a process to seal the
dozens to thousands of serpentine wall joints that are useful in
creating such a network. In some embodiments, provided herein, are
high throughput processes that provide rapid and inexpensive
manufacturing of such an article.
[0032] In one embodiment, a first (e.g., lower--or distal from the
article surface) material, such as a thermoplastic (e.g., urethane,
polyester, etc.), is molded into a serpentine channel network. In
some embodiments, the first material (e.g., thermoplastic) is
polymerized (at least partially polymerized). In some instances, a
second (e.g., upper) material, such as a second thermoplastic, is
laminated onto the first material (e.g., applying evenly
distributed pressure and heat). In some embodiments, bonding of the
composite layers is promoted by means of physical and/or chemical
adhesion due to thermal exposure, pressure, adhesives, solvents,
surface chemistry activation, polymerization, or a combination
thereof. In certain embodiments, the lower thermoplastic is of a
harder or softer durometer than the top sealing thermoplastic. In
various embodiments, the first and second thermoplastics have any
suitable durometer for achieving a desired product. For instance,
in some embodiments, the first (e.g., lower) channel material has a
20-30 A durometer with the walls embedded within, while the second
material (e.g., upper sealing layer) provides exterior protection
with a 25-40 A durometer hardness. In another embodiment, the lower
channel material has a harder 25-70 A hardness (e.g., to provide
mechanical stability to the walls) while the second material (e.g.,
top sealing layer) is laminated onto the walls using a 15-30 A
durometer material. In yet another embodiment, the first and second
(e.g., upper and lower) materials comprise similar or identical
materials and/or have similar or identical durometer. In some
embodiments, lamination is optionally assisted through the use of
roller(s), e.g., machined roller(s) that apply more heat and
pressure to the channel walls than to the channel. For instance,
FIG. 18 illustrates one embodiment whereby a roller wheel applies
heat and pressure selectively to areas of the thermoplastic
sandwich to create sealed channel walls. In this embodiment, the
connector is first adhered to the circuit inlet and outlet before
the entire piece is coated in a transparent encapsulating polymer
overmold. In one embodiment, the optional overmold imparts
additional sealing and texture as necessary. In one embodiment,
microfluidic material is also attached to a backing material to
provide mechanical robustness, e.g., to withstand the strain
encountered during wear in a shoe. In another embodiment, the
backing would be a reflective material, such as a mylar, to impart
desired optical properties to the composite. Other possibilities
include the use of thermoformed or cold formed foils or foil
composites as the patterned channel material and a
polyester/polyvinyl chloride, polychlorotrifluoro ethylene, or
cyclic olefin copolymer backing.
[0033] In other embodiments, microfluidic channel networks are
ultrasonically or RF welded into the thermoplastic sandwich. The
upper or lower parts may be previously molded to focus energy to
the channel walls. For ultrasonic welding, the preferred
frequencies are 10-80 kHz. In the case where a single ultrasonic
horn is insufficient to cover the entire desired apparel area,
multiple horns can be used. Provided herein are designs that leave
a stitching area of 0.5 mm to 5 mm between overlapping horn
designs, or any other spacing, e.g., so to allow subsequent
precision welding to stitch across the large horn deficiencies. In
yet other embodiments, thermoplastic sandwiches are swelled using
an ionic bath before electrowelding via current passing between the
walls of the upper and lower parts. Provided in certain embodiments
herein is a design article or design element comprising a
microfluidic circuit channel comprising at least one color, angle,
density, or the like. In specific embodiments, the design article
or design element comprises a single microfluidic channel. In
certain embodiments, a single microfluidic channel connecting
inlets and outlets is fashioned into multiple virtual panels by
alternating the direction and/or density of the filling pattern
used. In some embodiments, using a single channel allows for a much
wider range of filling pressures without generation of voids. In
some instances, if multiple channels are filled in parallel, there
is a good chance that high pressure paths will be excluded and
fluid will preferentially flow through low pressure paths--much
like an electrical short will carry current around an electrical
circuit. The current design for filling a large area with a single
channel to create multiple channels eliminates this problem. Per
example shown in FIG. 19, a single microfluidic circuit with one
inlet and one outlet, with various angles and densities of fill
create the illusion of separate panels when filled with one or more
colors.
[0034] Provided in certain embodiments herein is a design article
or design element comprising a microfluidic circuit in
three-dimensions. In some embodiments, a three-dimensional
microfluidic circuit overlays serpentine channel arrays at varying
depths of the article to create intricate visual effects (e.g.,
texture, patterns, color fields, etc.) as seen from surface of the
article. In some embodiments, a three-dimensional microfluidic
circuit consists of a single or of multiple layers of channels and
is shaped to the three-dimensional form of the article (e.g., shoe,
electronics case, etc.). In one embodiment, a three-dimensional
microfluidic circuit is accomplished by generating a sealed planar
microfluidic circuit in a flexible substrate (e.g., urethane) and
affixing this microfluidic circuit conformally to a
three-dimensionally formed article. In certain embodiments, the
microfluidic circuit is affixed by means of pressure-sensitive
adhesive. In some embodiments, bonding between the microfluidic
circuit and article is promoted by means of physical and/or
chemical adhesion due to thermal exposure (e.g., welding,
laminating, etc.), pressure, adhesives, solvents, surface chemistry
activation (e.g., UV-ozone exposure), polymerization (e.g.,
reaction injection molding), mechanical fastening, or a combination
thereof. In other embodiments, the three-dimensional microfluidic
circuit is formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., selective laser
sintering, fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, 3D
printing, etc.). In one embodiment, the final sealed microfluidic
circuit is formed by laying down successive layers of material with
a 3D printer to form the channel walls. Zones that have not been
printed upon create the internal channels of the final microfluidic
circuit. In other embodiments, the three-dimensional microfluidic
circuit is formed via direct subtractive manufacturing (e.g., laser
etching, lost-wax casting, investment casting, etc.) in which the
microfluidic channels are formed by the removal of material from
within the article. In one embodiment, a three-dimensional article
is formed in polycarbonate and internal laser etching is used to
remove material to create the microfluidic channels.
Methods of Construction and Use of a Manually Actuated Docking
Station
[0035] Provided in certain embodiments herein is a docking station
comprising a pump, color cartridges and connector (collectively,
the "cartridge") that connects to the corresponding connector
integrated into the microfluidic circuit and allows the user to
manually actuate the initiation and duration of flow through the
microfluidic circuit. FIG. 20 is an example of a manually actuated
docking station with an integrated connector. In some embodiments,
the docking station is comprised of a fluid cartridge 2001 and a
waste cartridge 2002. The user would pull back on the plunger
assembly 2003 to actuate the ratcheted syringe 2004 and create a
vacuum within waste compartment 2002. In one embodiment, an
absorbent material, such as hydrogels, is contained in the waste
cartridge 2002 to prevent spillage or backflow. As the vacuum is
created, the syringe nub 2005 moves to displace the colored fluid.
The syringe nub 2005 also serves to keep the fluid sealed from the
environment during storage. As the ratcheted syringe 2004 is pulled
back, it can be finely tuned for some length until the ratchet
teeth move past the ratchet cap 2006, wherein the syringe can no
longer be pushed forward. The ratcheting ensures that the cartridge
is used only a few times before recycling. The male connector 2007
interfaces with the female connector 2008, shown here embedded
within a mobile phone case, with an embedded microfluidic channel
network 2009, shown in cross sectional and planar view.
[0036] In another embodiment of a manually actuated docking station
with an integrated connector, as shown in FIG. 21, the connector is
comprised of a freely rotating screw ring 2101 snapped onto the
connector body that allows the user to form a strong fluidic seal.
The connector also has tapered ports that mate to the corresponding
tapered item connector 2103 through an interference fit. The
interference between the tapered ends helps complete a sound
fluidic seal.
[0037] In yet another embodiment, there is a utility to provide for
simultaneous connection of two fluid lines to simplify user
interactions. FIG. 22 is an example of a self sealing dry break
connector with integrated microfluidic inlet and outlet fluid
paths. In this embodiment, the male connector housing 2201 contains
a screw 2202 that pushes against a sealing ring 2203 that, when
extended, closes off the fluid lines 2204 of the connector. The
female counterpart has a screw thread 2205 that aligns the male
connector, a sealing cap 2206 and associated screw 2207 that when
disconnected, shuts off flow in the female fluid lines 2208. Unique
to this design is the minimal dead volume resulting from the
microfluidic lines being small enough to feed through the threading
of the screw. Further, the spring, or other force element, loaded
sealing cap 2206 provides a means to wipe clean the female fluid
lines of dried fluid during connecting and disconnecting. This same
self cleaning happens on the male side from screw thread 2205.
[0038] In other embodiments, the ease of connection is facilitated
through magnetic forces. FIG. 23 embodies magnetic connectors with
integrated microfluidic inlet and outlet fluid paths. In this
embodiment, a spring 2301, upper cap 2302 and upper seal 2303 are
housed within upper body element 2304. When disconnected, the
spring 2301 closes off the fluidic path 2305 by pressing the upper
cap assembly up against the magnet 2306. An actuator pin 2307 with
embedded fluidic channels passes through stud 2308, which is
further coupled to an O-ring 2309 to provide for a firm fluidic
seal when connected. In some embodiments, when placed in close
proximity to the bottom half of the connector, the upper magnet
2306 couples with the steel (or other ferritic or magnetic
material) 2310 embedded in the lower base 2311. This magnetic force
simultaneously couples the upper and lower halves of the connector,
and through action of the actuator pin, displaces lower seal 2312
and follower 2313 against spring 2314, which are housed in the
lower base 2315. This balance of forces opens the fluidic path
2316, and completes the fluidic circuit. In this embodiment, when
disconnected, the springs (or bushings, pneumatic elements, etc.)
press the seals back into place and create a dry break seal. In
alternative embodiments, timing is added to the connector, wherein
the actuator pin moves the valve into the open position while the
connection is being made to avoid backpressure from the female
side. In such an embodiment, shortly after the initiation of
connection, the stud would seal the fluidic path via an O-ring,
then pushes the female seal open.
[0039] In certain embodiments, a manually actuated docking station
carries a plurality of fluid compartments to actuate flow within a
plurality of microfluidic circuits, e.g., a two color cartridge
could swap out the contents of two different microfluidic channel
circuits simultaneously. In other embodiments, one connector per
microfluidic circuit is arranged on the item, for example in FIG.
24, which gives an example of multiple stacked circuits and
multiple connectors within a single item. In some embodiments, two
microfluidic circuits are embedded within the vertical extent of a
mobile phone case. A mobile device 2401 is placed within case
housing 2402 and pressed up against the case backing 2403. On the
backside of the case, microfluidic circuits 2404 and 2405 combine
to form a checkerboard pattern. When different colors are
sequentially pulled through the circuit, the combination of colors
produces a unique user defined case. In certain embodiments, there
are separate connectors for each circuit, in this case, connector
2406 would allow access to microfluidic channel 2405 while
connector 2407 would allow access to microfluidic circuit 2404. In
addition, in some embodiments, each connector would be sealed when
not in use by a thumb screw cap 2408.
Online Distribution of Content Codes
[0040] Provided in certain embodiments herein is a system for
providing the design to any design element described herein. In
some embodiments, provided herein is a system for configuring the
design of a design element comprising a microfluidic circuit, the
system comprising a module configured to set a color sequence for
filling the microfluidic circuit with one or more colored fluid. In
various other embodiments, the system comprises any additional
module suitable for providing a design, or a particular design to
the design element. For example, in some embodiments, a system
described herein comprises a module configured to set the flow rate
or pressure of fluid filled into the microfluidic channel. Further,
in certain embodiments, any system described herein further
comprises a module configured to access a remote server comprising
color sequence, flow rate, and/or pressure information for
configuring the design of the design element; a module configured
to detect the type of design element comprising the microfluidic
circuit; one or more module configured to adjust the color
sequence, flow rate of fluid, and/or pressure of fluid; or the
like. Similarly, the system optionally comprises a module
configured to achieve any of the processes or results described
below.
[0041] In one embodiment, a Code is resolved by a central server to
point to a reference file (HTML, XML, etc) that has all the
information (the Code file format) that would include color
patterns, fluid pressure filling instructions (timing, pressure,
duty cycle, color sequence, fluid channel orientation), pictures
used to augment your apparel, brands that you incorporate into the
outfit, and meta-tags to define and classify the contents. Codes
can be made malleable across different apparel through the use of
progressive algorithms, i.e., given the apparel microfluidic
channel map, the algorithm would describe one or more optimal
filling patterns with the color sequence of choice. For instance,
the user could be presented with a first, algorithmically optimized
preview of the apparel. The user could then choose to modulate the
color pattern using high level tools, such as applying filters to
the apparel (rotating, horizontal stripes, vertical stripes,
gradients, or other 2-D kernels). These Codes could be applied
within a social network like Facebook, a PC or mobile platform app
that allows people to share or modulate your latest Codes
instantaneously (i.e., what I'm wearing to school today) and has a
suggestion engine that can proffer different outfits based on the
user's historical taste and recent self-expression. In one
embodiment, suggestions could be updated with up-to-the minute
crowdsourced data, and people can follow celebrities, designers, TV
shows, etc., to get Codes for fashion.
[0042] Online Codesharing can tap into retail or online databases
to suggest apparel combinations based on brand, local availability,
online availability, complementary colors, etc. Retailers can
purchase space on the Codestore to promote codes with their
products. Codes can also be suggested based on hierarchical
demographics, described by trends or styles (goth, sexy, preppie,
classic, tasteful, etc.).
[0043] Codecasts, like podcasts, would allow people to download
other designers' codes, follow celebrities, etc. The Code file
format also allows users to purchase specialized codes for 99
cents.
[0044] In some embodiments, the system comprises any suitable
processor, e.g., a central processing unit, or collection of
processors comprising the modules described herein. In certain
embodiments, provided herein is a sub-system comprising any one or
more modules described herein that may be used in conjunction with
any one or more other sub-system to achieve the results of the
system described herein.
[0045] Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to the
modulation of appearance or material properties within items such
as apparel (e.g., footwear, shoes, belts, backpacks, hats,
bracelets, wristbands, shirts, jewelry, glasses, materials for
apparel, release papers, fibers, etc.), equipment (e.g.,
skateboards, rollerblades, snowboards, gloves, hockey pads,
appliances, computers, electronics, gadgets, toys, etc.), and other
three-dimensional objects (signs, corporate art, corporate logos,
military vehicles, military gear, helmets, vehicle body panels,
housewares, furniture, tabletops, walls, paintings, etc.). In some
embodiments, provided herein is an item (e.g., an article of
apparel, an article of sporting equipment, or the like) comprising
a fluidic channel (e.g., a microfluidic channel containing therein
a liquid, particularly a colored liquid). In specific embodiments,
the fluidic channel is a part of a fluidic circuit that further
comprises an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet
are connected by the fluidic channel. Moreover, some embodiments of
the present invention relate to fluidic manipulation of appearance
and/or material properties and modulation thereof, including a
microfluidic circuit, inlets and outlets to the fluidic system, and
a docking system to deliver fluid to the item.
[0046] Certain embodiments herein provide an item comprising a
microfluidic circuit to allow modulation of appearance or material
properties of the item (FIG. 1). One or more microfluidic circuits
in the shape of swooshes, stripes, ribbing along the outlines of a
design, logos, background elements, etc. can be integrated into an
item (FIG. 2). Microfluidic circuits may also encompass a large
portion of the item, and in some cases substantially comprise the
outer extent of the item; for instance in belts, skateboards,
helmets, corporate logos, motorcycle panels, etc. In preferred
embodiments provided herein, microfluidic circuits comprise an
inlet, an outlet and a translucent or transparent microchannel
(i.e., at least a portion of the microchannel is translucent and/or
transparent) system, through which fluids can flow (FIG. 3).
Microfluidic channel structures (including the fluidic channels and
walls between channels) provided herein may cover up to 100%, up to
90%, up to 80%, up to 70%, up to 60%, up to 50%, up to 40%, up to
30%, up to 20%, up to 10%, or up to 5% of an item's surface.
Microfluidic channel structures may cover 1-100%, 1-10%, 10-95%,
1-50%, 10-50%, 20-50%, 20-100%, 30-100%, or any other suitable
amount of an item's surface.
[0047] Provided in certain embodiments herein a design article
provided for herein comprises a microfluidic circuit integrated
into or onto the surface thereof. In specific embodiments, the
microfluidic circuit is integrated into or onto the external
surface of the article. In certain embodiment integrated
microfluidic circuits or molds comprising microfluidic circuits are
attached to an underlying portion of the article surface (e.g.,
sewn thereto, glued thereto, etc.), or comprise a part of the
surface itself (e.g., no underlying surface of the article is
necessary). In some embodiments at least one segment (which term is
used synonymously herein with a portion of the microfluidic
circuit; and is not intended to necessarily denote any substructure
of the microfluidic circuit) of the microfluidic circuit is exposed
to the external surface of the apparel or equipment. Further, in
some embodiments, the at least one transparent or translucent wall
segment is exposed to the surface of the apparel or equipment,
providing for visual contact between the surface of the apparel or
equipment and the microfluidic channel (i.e., the fluid, or
component parts thereof, can be seen from the exterior of the
article). In certain embodiments, up to 100%, up to 90%, up to 80%,
up to 70%, up to 60%, up to 50%, up to 40%, up to 30%, up to 20%,
up to 10%, or up to 5%, 1-100%, 1-10%, 10-95%, 1-50%, 10-50%,
20-50%, 20-100%, 30-100%, or any other desired amount of the
external surface or wall of the microfluidic circuit comprises a
translucent or transparent material.
[0048] Provided in further embodiments herein is a method of
manufacturing an article of apparel or equipment having alterable
design features, the method comprising:
integrating a microfluidic circuit into or onto the surface of the
article, the microfluidic circuit comprising a microfluidic
channel, an inlet and an outlet, and the microfluidic channel
having at least one segment in visual contact with an external
surface of the article.
[0049] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method of
modulating the appearance or material properties of an article of
apparel or equipment comprising:
moving fluid through a microfluidic circuit integrated with the
apparel or equipment and having at least one segment in visual
contact with an external surface of the apparel or equipment, the
microfluidic circuit comprising a micro fluidic channel, an inlet
and an outlet, with the microfluidic channel connecting the inlet
to the outlet within the article.
[0050] In a first embodiment, one or a plurality of microfluidic
circuit(s) are integrated into the exterior of an item of footwear.
In one embodiment, the inlet and outlet of the microfluidic circuit
are contained within a port hidden within the back heel of the
shoe. In such an example, connection to the docking station allows
the user to change the color of the exterior of the shoe to match
the desired color. In certain embodiments, the microfluidic
circuits are configured to cover 75% of the exterior of the shoe,
for instance the channels can be integrated into the synthetic
leather upper, the tongue of the shoe, and the sole. In other
embodiments, the microfluidic circuits are configured to cover 25%
of the exterior of the shoe, for instance against a white leather
shoe, the microfluidic circuits comprise the stylized logos and
decorative ribbing alongside the circumference of the shoe. In yet
other embodiments, the microfluidic circuits are configured to
comprise 100% of the upper exterior of the shoe, having been
integrated directly into the polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride
release papers that then form the pad and the strap of a high heel
shoe. In yet another embodiment, the microfluidic circuits are
fashioned into 10% of the exterior of the shoe, molded to cover the
straps on a pair of sandals. In another embodiment, the
microfluidic circuits are integrated into the substructure of a
shoe, covered by a porous material, such as a canvas or cotton to
allow color to be seen through the gaps of the material. In yet
other embodiments, combinations of microfluidic circuits offer
multiple ways to expressing oneself, e.g., stiff polycarbonate
microfluidic circuits prominently displayed on 50% of the exterior
of the shoe with another 15% of the shoe covered in a soft
polyurethane microfluidic circuit that covers the toe box and
circumvents the shoelace holes. In certain embodiments, the
microfluidic circuits are fabricated from polyurethane. In others,
the microfluidic circuits are fabricated from polyvinyl chloride,
poromerics, pleathers, Clarino, polycarbonate, or other synthetic
leather materials.
[0051] In addition to the appearance of an item, the microfluidic
circuit may also transport various fluids throughout the extent of
the item to modulate the material properties of the item. For
instance, in addition to the appearance, exchange of fluids within
the microfluidic circuit may modulate the touch, feel, stiffness,
or roughness of the item. In one embodiment, a metal microparticle
sol may optionally displace an aqueous suspension of small molecule
dyes to randomly distend a soft microfluidic circuit (for instance,
made of lightly crosslinked polyurethane), which would
simultaneously create raised reflective bumps along the skin of the
item in place of the previous smooth, homogeneous and brightly
colored surface. In another embodiment, a purple, heated, lavender
scented polyethylene glycol solution with a large heat capacity is
optionally pumped through the base of a shoe to displace a cold
metal microparticle solution in order to modulate the thermal
properties and rigidity of the shoe. In yet another embodiment,
microfluidic circuits are molded into an article of clothing for a
toy doll, in which a color (e.g., bright green) is optionally
replaced by a magnetic glitter, that allows other magnetic
components to be attached to the toy's apparel.
[0052] Other material properties that may be altered by transport
through the microfluidic circuit include optical properties (e.g.,
color, reflectivity, absorption), scent, thermal properties (e.g.,
heat capacity, heat transfer coefficient), mechanical properties
(e.g., stiffness, roughness, pressure), electromagnetic properties
(e.g., paramagnetic, ferromagnetic, conductive), therapeutic
properties, or chemical properties (e.g., fluorescent,
chemiluminescent) of the item.
Valves Between Connector & Item
[0053] In certain embodiments the openings (e.g., inlets to and/or
outlets from) the microfluidic circuit contain valves. In such
embodiments, input and output valves can be constructed from septum
valves, check valves, ball valves, multi-port valves, microfluidic
valves, pinch valves, and so forth. In one preferred embodiment,
microfluidic circuit valves are comprised of a
polyphenylenesulphone (PPSU), nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), and
polyimide (PI) passive dynamic check valve. In various embodiments,
the valve may have any suitable dimension, e.g., roughly
2.times.0.5 mm in dimension. Further, in various embodiments, the
valve may have any suitable structure and/or connection to the
fluidic channel, e.g., be embedded within a stainless steel tube of
roughly 2.times.17 mm with an internal volume of 2-5 nL. Valves
used in the circuits described herein may deliver any suitable
volume of fluid to the circuit. For example, in an embodiment, such
as described above, a preferred valve may deliver 0.10-0.30 mL/s at
a forward pressure of 7.25 psi. In certain embodiments, the
normally closed valves are optionally coupled with a filter. In
other embodiments, one or each valve is optionally a normally
closed solenoid valve that is actuated by electrical signals
carried by the connector to allow flow to various design elements
on the item. In such an embodiment, one fluid line from the docking
station is optionally split into a plurality of microfluidic
circuits within the port of the item, and flow to each design
element mediated by the aforementioned active valves.
[0054] In certain embodiments, the valves are optionally protected
from wear by housing them in a port, e.g., a protective port, such
as a hard plastic port (FIG. 4, FIG. 5). The port is optionally
recessed within a shoe, for instance, hidden within a cutout of the
sole, within the backing of the heel, or any other suitable
location. The port can also be fabricated such that it facilitates
simple insertion and alignment to the docking station connector,
through molded guides, ramps, snaps, levers, male/female grooves,
etc. FIG. 6 demonstrates an example of a connector that
simultaneously interfaces to, and opens, the microfluidic circuit
valves. In embodiments that use check valves, the increase in
pressure from the docking station would open the valves in the
item. Other embodiments that use simple septum valves would use a
connector with pins that would push past the seal and enter the
fluid lines in the item.
[0055] In certain embodiments, the valves are fluidically isolated
on a parallel shunt channel or reservoir to prevent leaks while
connecting and disconnecting. The shunt channel or reservoir may be
separated from the primary micro fluidic circuit by passive check
valves to create a lower pressure fluidic region for the port
connection. Following successful connector to port connection, upon
application of fluid pressure the shunt channel opens to full fluid
flow through to the microfluidic circuit.
Materials & Construction of Microfluidic Circuits
[0056] The microfluidic circuit of the items described herein
(e.g., apparel) can be constructed of any suitable material. In
certain embodiments, the structure of the microfluidic circuit or
microfluidic channel comprises void (containing a fluid, or into
which a fluid may flow) enclosed (e.g., with walls, with at least
one opening) by any suitable material or combination of materials.
In some embodiments, the microfluidic circuit or channel is
constructed of (wholly or in part) a transparent plastic such as
polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polymethylmethacrylate, cellulose
acetate butyrate, polycarbonate, glycol modified polyethylene
terephthalate, polydimethylsiloxane, as well as other transparent
or translucent plastics suitable for apparel and/or sporting
equipment. The microfluidic circuit can be comprised of a rigid,
semi-rigid molded part, or in other embodiments, flexible molded
parts. In one embodiment of a mold & seal process, two halves
of the microfluidic circuit are injection molded and partially
cross-linked, prior to alignment and sealing. Alignment of the two
halves can be facilitated by the use of automated jigging that
moves partially cured items from the molding machine into place,
holds a top piece using vacuum pressure, then presses the two
halves into one. In various embodiments, sealing comprises and/or
is achieved via the use of pressure, heating, acid, UV light
exposure, UV-ozone exposure, waiting to allow the partially
cross-linked halves to bind to each other as polymerization
reactions move towards completion, or the like. In other
embodiments, sealing comprises application of an adhesive (chemical
adhesive, multi-part epoxy, light-curable compounds, or soaking in
acid etc.) between the two layers before applying pressure, heat,
UV light exposure or time. Other methods of construction optionally
include a process where a positive molding of a channel lumen is
constructed using a soluble solid (either water soluble like
sugars, starches, cellulose, etc., or soluble in an gentle organic
solvent that will not perturb the two halves of the circuit), and
is then placed in the polymer mold. In some of such embodiments,
upon filling the mold and fully curing the circuit, the assembly is
soaked in solvent to remove the channel lumen mold, or solvent is
pumped through the circuit to dissolve the positive mold.
[0057] In some embodiments, a design feature or design mold
comprises a plurality of microfluidic channels and/or microfluidic
circuits. In certain embodiments, such a design feature or a design
mold comprises a stitching or attachment portion for attachment to
another design feature or design mold, or other material. In some
instances, a stitching portion may include, e.g., a portion devoid
of microfluidic channels, or of microfluidic channels that are
sealed, or otherwise not connected or capable of being connected to
a fluid source. In some instances, one or more microfluidic
circuits may be molded such that a small outer rim of material is
built into the circuit, such that the rim is sufficiently wide to
allow stitching or adhesion onto the item's exterior. In various
embodiments, the stitching or attachment portion, or rim, is of any
size suitable for assembling an article described herein. For
example, the rim would be preferably no more than 5 mm wide. In
other embodiments, the rim would be on the order of 30 mm wide,
which would be useful in cases where the outer rim of the
microfluidic circuit is to be pulled over the last of a shoe during
manufacturing. In other embodiments, design features, design molds,
or other assemblies of microfluidic circuit(s) do not comprise
and/or do not need such stitching/attachment portions or rims
because they are attached in another suitable manner. For example,
microfluidic circuits may also be attached to the item and/or
fabricated into the item using an adhesive, epoxy, etc.
[0058] In other embodiments, the microfluidic circuit(s) (e.g.,
design mold) may be fashioned from a single layer of transparent
plastic containing embedded channels sealed directly to the surface
of the item, e.g., in the case of a skateboard or snowboard deck.
In some embodiments, this type of construction is suitable for use
in equipment where a thick layer of adhesive can be applied to the
item and the channels pressed on top of the adhesive.
[0059] In other embodiments, the microfluidic channel/circuit
construct (e.g., design mold) incorporates a backing material
attached to a transparent/translucent material (e.g., plastic). In
such embodiments, the backing material can be fastened to the item
through an adhesives process or sewn to the item around the edges
or at designated attachment points. In such embodiments, the
backing material may supply additional optical characteristics such
as a reflective surface (e.g., using biaxially-oriented
polyethylene terephthalate), or an opaque white background (e.g.,
polyethylene).
[0060] In yet another embodiment, the surfaces comprising the
lumen, exposed, or transparent portion of the fluidic
channel/circuit construct are modified, treated, or coated to
reduce adhesion to, adsorption from, or staining by the dyes used
to modulate colors. These treatments and material selections
include rendering the lumen hydrophilic for a hydrophobic dye,
hydrophobic for hydrophilic dyes, charged for nonpolar dyes, as
well as selecting the dyes and lumen to be both hydrophilic or
hydrophobic. These treatments may also serve to reduce evaporation
through the polymeric structure of the microfluidic circuit by
laminating, coating, or otherwise sealing the exterior of the
plastic.
[0061] In some instances, microfluidic circuit embodiments are
intended to maximize reflected light to create the most vibrant
color changing apparel and equipment, and in other instances,
microfluidic circuit embodiments diffuse and distort light,
including patterned surface textures made to specular light
patterns consistent with the texture of leather, or prismatic
embossments for adding sparkle to the surface, or a micro lensed
surface for a distorted effect. Other embodiments of microfluidic
circuits incorporate the use of transmitted light from
piezoelectric or battery driven LEDs. In other embodiments, the
capability to modulate color is assisted through the use of an
active element such as liquid crystals, nano-inks, e-inks, OLEDs,
LEDs, or nanoparticle suspensions, etc.
Microfluidic Circuits
[0062] Fluidic circuits of the systems described herein comprise
channels having any suitable dimensions, including, lengths,
depths, diameters, geometries, etc. In various embodiments, the
internal channels of the fluidic circuits are circular, square,
oval, pyramidal, triangular, etc. In some embodiments, the internal
diameters of the channels are any channel suitable to provide a
desired design feature when filled with a liquid (e.g., a colored
liquid). In specific embodiments, the internal diameter of a
channel provided herein is small enough so as to minimize mixing
and diffusion along the fluidic channel. In certain embodiments,
the dimension (e.g., depth, width or diameter) of a fluidic or
microfluidic channel described herein is at least 0.1 micron, of
0.1 micron to 10 mm, of 0.1 micron to 1 mm, of 0.1 micron to 100
mm, of 1 micron to 1 mm, of 1 micron to 500 micron, of 10 micron to
1 mm, of 10 micron to 0.5 mm, of 50 micron to 500 micron, or any
other suitable diameter. Further, in various embodiments, different
channel segments along a fluidic circuit may also possess varying
dimensions (e.g., at one point along the fluidic circuit, the
diameter may be 10 microns, whereas at other locations along the
circuit, the diameter may be 20 microns, or the like).
[0063] Further, in various embodiments, the walls of the fluidic
circuit (i.e., surrounding the fluidic channel) are of any suitable
thickness. In some embodiments, the walls between microfluidic
channels of a system described herein are narrower than the walls
forming the surface and/or back constructs of the microfluidic
channel. In some embodiments, wall widths between parallel channels
of 1 micron to 10 mm, or 10 microns to 1 mm, 50 microns to 1 mm, 50
microns to 500 microns, 50 microns to 250 microns, 100 microns to
500 microns, 200 microns to 500 microns, 300 microns, 400 microns,
or the like.
[0064] The volume of the fluidic system would be preferentially
minimized to drive the economics of the application while retaining
sufficient color density to be aesthetically pleasing. In certain
embodiments, this would translate into a very thin channel depth of
the circuit, on the order of 10-1,000 .mu.m. In other embodiments,
the channel depth of the circuit would be on the order of 300-700
.mu.m. In other embodiments, the vertical extent would be such that
the Reynolds number would be much less than 2,300. In other
embodiments, the fluidic channels are configured to promote plug
flow, in order to eliminate boundary layers adjacent to the walls
of the fluidic channel (Aris, Rutherford. Vectors, Tensors, and the
Basic Equations of Fluid Mechanics. New York: Dover Publications,
Inc., 1962; Panton, Ronald L. Incompressible Flow, Second Edition.
New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1996, which are incorporated
herein for such disclosure). In certain microfluidic embodiments,
mechanical features of the design elements promote mixing, as dyes
are pumped through the microfluidic circuit (FIG. 7), these
include, e.g., any suitable microfluidic mixing mechanisms such as
grooved channels, Tesla mixers, T- and Y-flow configurations,
interdigital/bifurcation flow distribution structures, focusing
structures for flow compression, repeated flow division- and
recombination structures, flow obstacles, zig-zag channels, and
other passive micromixing designs or microvalving designs. In other
embodiments, each microfluidic circuit comprises a plurality (one
or more) of channels that carry an independent color or color
series (FIG. 8). Examples of microfluidic circuit designs include
shapes such as swooshes, bars, stripes, stars, toe pieces, shoelace
holes, or even the majority of the outer face of a shoe.
Microfluidic circuits can also comprise the entire outer extent of
a three-dimensional item. For instance, the panels of a backpack,
the outer section of a belt, the lettering within a corporate logo,
the outer plastic shell of a rollerblade, or an identification
panel on a military vehicle (that could communicate through a
combination of infrared dyes or nanoparticles, for instance).
Microfluidic circuits can also be made to be as simple as single
tubes fashioned into as stripes on backpacks, hats, the rim of a
shoe, or other apparel and equipment.
[0065] In a preferred embodiment, a single serpentine channel is
woven throughout each design element to eliminate voids in higher
pressure paths (FIG. 9). Optimal channel widths can vary between
0.05 mm-5 mm, with spacing between parallel channels of 0.05-1 mm
(wall widths). In one exemplary embodiment, the channel wall width
would is from 0.40 mm to 0.45 mm, while channel widths optionally
vary between 0.35 mm and 1.05 mm depending on the portion of the
serpentine path. In such an embodiment, with channel depths of
approximately 0.5 mm and a total channel path length on the order
of 2,500 mm, the a filling volume would be 500-600 .mu.L (0.5-0.6
mL) and the filling time would be roughly 64 seconds at 3.2 PSI. In
yet another exemplary embodiment, the minimum channel wall width
would be 0.1 mm, with a maximum channel wall width of 0.65 mm,
while channel widths would change between 0.35 mm and 1.25 mm
depending on the portion of the serpentine path. In such an
embodiment, with channel depths of approximately 0.5 mm, the total
channel path length on the order to 2,000 mm, the filling volume
would be 400-500 .mu.L (0.4-0.5 mL) and the filling time roughly 15
seconds at 12 PSI. Larger channel cross sections, shorter path
lengths and higher filling pressures would lead to shorter filling
times. FIG. 10 demonstrates a reduction to practice of the
serpentine channel concept on a shoe.
[0066] In other embodiments, a reflective, transmissive or
transflective display is employed to provide beneficial, e.g.,
improved visual complexity of patterns. For instance, in bright
lighting when non-reflective displays tend to show little color or
no contrast, the display acts mainly as a reflective display. In
some embodiments under low light conditions, when non-transmissive
displays are not visible, a transmissive backlight is used. In one
embodiment, the illumination characteristics of both transmissive
and reflective modes are combined into transflective mode. In
transflective mode, the display can modulate from reflective mode
in bright lighting to transmissive mode in low lighting. In some
embodiments, the transmissive mode display includes an illuminance
sensor for control of the backlight in changing light conditions,
and a transflecting layer capable of simultaneous reflection and
transmission.
[0067] In some embodiments, visual brilliance and resolution of the
display are enhanced through advanced modulation techniques. In
addition to direct fluidic manipulation of properties, second-order
control modalities can be used. These second-order control
modalities include indirect fluidic manipulation; mechanical
manipulation; passive and active electronic manipulation such as
electrophoresis and electroosmosis; and magnetic manipulation.
[0068] In one embodiment, the fluid domain is partially or fully
comprised of microcapsules containing ink. In some embodiments, the
microcapsules containing ink are used in design articles or design
elements instead of or in combination with the micro fluidic
channels described herein. Color appears to change based upon
application of an external field causing external rotation of the
microcapsule. As the microcapsule rotates, the ink domain that is
visible changes. In another embodiment, color modulation is
achieved by internal motion of dye by application of some external
field to the microcapsule. In some embodiments, the applied field
is the result of direct fluidic manipulation, or through one or a
combination of a second-order control modality(s). In one
embodiment, microparticle orientation is controlled
electrophoretically by a passive electronic array embedded in
within the fluidic circuit. In some instances, the microparticle
has a plurality of different colored surfaces, e.g., such that upon
change of the orientation thereof, a different colored surface is
exposed to the surface of the article. The user can connect the
color-changing piece of apparel to a computer or docking station,
change the display via the embedded electronic array in the fluidic
circuit, and disconnect from the docking station with a new
pattern.
Docking Station Configurations
[0069] Within certain embodiments, a docking station (the dock) is
used to optionally mix and ultimately distribute fluid into the
item. In certain embodiments, the dock comprises a pump, actuation
valve(s), color cartridge(s), a mixing element (a mixer), fluidic
connector(s), a waste compartment, a combination thereof, or all of
the above (FIG. 11, FIG. 12). In other embodiments each fluid
channel carries its own pump (FIG. 13). Independently controlled
pumps may obviate the need for actuation valves within the
dock.
Mixer Designs within Docking Station
[0070] Mixing of various fluids (e.g., different colors, such as
primary colors) within the docking station can be achieved in any
suitable manner including, e.g., the use of grooved channels, Tesla
mixers, T- and Y-flow configurations, interdigital/bifurcation flow
distribution structures, repeated flow division- and recombination
structures, flow obstacles, zig-zag channels, chaotic mixing, or
other passive micromixing designs, flow splitting, hydrodynamic
focusing, capillary flow splitting and recombination, flow
twisting, chaotic advection, acoustic mixing, surface acoustic
waves, heating, electromagnetic, magnetic, diffusion, or other
active methods known to those skilled in the art of mixing within
microfluidic channels. Examples of mixer designs are shown in FIG.
14 and FIG. 15.
Modulation of Fluid
[0071] Different levels of constituent fluids (i.e., cyan, magenta,
yellow, black, white or clear color fluids, or alternatively red,
green and blue fluids, or glittered, glow-in-the dark, fluorescent,
and matte, or hot, cold, scented, therapeutic, magnetic,
antiseptic, viscous, non-Newtonian fluids) can be mixed in
different proportions to create a broad palette of colors,
textures, therapeutic and other material properties. The different
types of modulation can be broadly segregated into analog, digital,
or temporal modalities.
[0072] In analog modulation, the amount of each fluid can be
changed by varying the pressure on each line or by varying the
resistance of each line given a single pressure. In the case where
each fluid line is being forced by an independent pump, the pump
pressure would be increased for more fluid, and lowered for less
fluid. In such an embodiment, it may be useful to balance the
overall pumping pressure to a relatively constant pressure that
overcomes the forward valve pressure in the item, for instance the
sum of all pressures could be kept the range of 3-12 psi.
[0073] In a second analog modulation method, a master pump is
placed in the circuit while valves regulate the resistance on each
line. The valves and pumps can be placed either before or after the
fluid cartridges, and act upon the fluid lines, the fluid directly,
or upon the airway to each cartridge. In one embodiment, each fluid
line would contain a resistive valve that mediates the relative
resistance through that line. In certain analog resistive
modulation embodiments, indirect valves can be made to press on
tubing with different amounts of force in order to compress the
fluidic lines and increase resistance. Alternatively, indirect
valves could constrict the flow of air to each fluid cartridge. In
another analog embodiment, the fluid path passes directly through
the resistive element of the valve. Analog systems would likely
benefit from disposable tubing (such as in the case of indirect
valves) to alleviate long-term plasticity on the fluid level
calibration. Valves may be actuated by diaphragm, a screw being
driven by a stepper motor, or by a solenoid valve, for example.
[0074] In a first digital embodiment, each fluid cartridge is
connected to a plurality of valves, each of which is binary in
nature, providing either flow or no flow, e.g. a solenoid valve.
When a greater proportion of a single fluid is desired, a greater
number of the binary valves are opened. Such an embodiment allows a
well-defined palette and easily calibrated fluid choices. For
instance, if each cartridge had four valves, each of which was
driven by its own solenoid, and there were four colors of fluid
(CMYK), a palette of 4{circumflex over ( )}4=256 colors could be
created.
[0075] Temporal modulation relics upon binary flow from each
cartridge to be controlled through valves (or independent pumps).
In this embodiment, valves are pulsed open or closed according to a
schedule of relative duty cycles. Solenoid valves (one per fluid
channel) would be particularly well suited for this approach. As
fluids recombine through a microfluidic mixer, the output flow
would be a reflection of the integral of duty cycle frequency and
mixer path length. Shorter path lengths and faster modulation times
would result in a higher resolution switching between fluid
packets. An example of duty cycle scheduling is shown in FIG.
16.
[0076] Provided in certain embodiments herein are microfluidic
mixer chips comprising one or more microvalves. In some
embodiments, provided herein is a docking station comprising a
microfluidic mixer chip. In specific embodiments, the microfluidic
chip comprises an array of microvalves. In some embodiments, the
microfluidic chip comprises metal film atop (e.g., thin metal film
spun atop) one or more elastomeric membrane. In certain
embodiments, one or more regions of metal film are positioned atop
the elastomeric membrane, thereby forming the array of microvalves.
In some embodiments, provided herein is a system comprising a micro
fluidic chip described herein and at least one microsolenoid for
actuating the one or more microvalve thereof.
[0077] In some embodiments, in order to create a digital array of
microvalves within a microfluidic mixer chip that are
electronically addressable, a thin film metal (magnetic,
paramagnetic, or conductive) is spun atop an elastomeric membrane.
In some embodiments, a microfluidic valve fashioned to be in
normally closed position, closed by the elastomeric membrane, is
actuated using current fed to an inductive coil located directly
beneath the coated membrane. In other embodiments, the valve works
in reverse phase, where normally open valve is pulled close using
the electromagnetic field. These valves may also be mechanically
actuated using a microsolenoid to drive a piston into and out of
the flow path of the chip. The elastomeric membrane may also be
constructed out of a polymer (e.g., PDMS, PE) with iron
micro/nanoparticles embedded within material to enable actuation
via microcoil.
Replacing Fluid within Microfluidic Circuits
[0078] There are several methods of replacing fluid within the
microfluidic circuits and the fluids of a circuit described herein
may be removed and inserted in any suitable manner. For instance,
electrophoretic, electroosmotic, dielectrophoretic, electrothennal
flow, electromagnetic, or other electromotive flow types; or
pressure based flow (including piezoelectric, diaphragm,
peristaltic, positive displacement, rotary pumps, manually operated
bellows pumps and so forth). In one preferred embodiment, a 6
mL/minute piezoelectric diaphragm pump, with external dimensions of
roughly 30.times.15.times.4 mm is placed on each fluidic channel.
In another embodiment, a 2-roller peristaltic pump is placed after
the outflow of the item to pull fluid through the microfluidic
circuit, in which case independent valves would be used to modulate
the level of each fluid flowing through the circuit.
[0079] In another embodiment, pre-mixed cartridges containing a
single fluid and a connector to deliver fluid to the circuit. In
such embodiments, the cartridges may be pre-pressurized and contain
a valve that opens when connected to the item. Alternatively the
user may use a bellows, syringe or a bulb attached to one end of
the cartridge to manually pump the fluid through the item.
[0080] Replacing the fluid within microfluidic circuits is
optionally achieved by replacing the resident fluids within the
micro fluidic circuit without flushing the circuit. In one
embodiment, a bolus of air or immiscible fluid may precede the
novel fluid to prevent mixing with the resident fluid.
Alternatively, gradients of appearance or material properties can
be created by continuously changing the constituent levels of fluid
introduced into the circuit without introducing a bolus of
immiscible fluid. An immiscible fluid utilized in certain
embodiments herein may comprise a fluid with sufficient density to
substantially alter its flow profile throughout the microfluidic
circuit.
[0081] In one embodiment, the entire volume of the microfluidic
circuit is filled with a single color fluid, or fluid with
identical material properties. In yet other embodiments,
microfluidic circuits can be filled with a series of fluid packets
(volumes of fluid less than the entire circuit volume) to produce
multiply colored or striped elements. In yet another embodiment,
sequential aliquots of very small volume can be serially moved down
the microfluidic circuit to create an image.
Compositions of Fluid
[0082] Fluids utilized in the circuits, items, or systems described
herein include any suitable or desirable fluid. In specific
embodiments, the fluid is a gel or a liquid (e.g., a solution, a
suspension, a colloid, an emulsion, etc.). In some embodiments,
liquids provided for herein are colored liquids. In further or
alternative embodiments, liquids provided for herein comprise a
suspended material, such as metallic particles, magnetic particles,
reflective particles, or the like.
[0083] Colored fluids may be comprised of small molecules such as
ethyl-[4-[[4-[ethyl-[(3-sulfophenyl)methyl]amino]phenyl]-(4-hydroxy-2-sul-
fophenyl)methylidene]-1-cyclohexa-2,5-dienylidene]-[(3-sulfophenyl)methyl]-
, disodium
6-hydroxy-5-((2-methoxy-5-methyl-4-sulfophenyl)azo)-2-naphthale-
ne-sulfonate, or 2,2'-Bis(2,3-dihydro-3-oxoindolyliden). Fluids may
also be comprised of particle suspensions or polymer solutions. In
certain embodiments, particles can be fashioned from polymeric
nanoparticles, preferentially 50-200 nm in diameter with covalently
bound (or absorbed) dye molecules, or in some configurations up to
20-50 .mu.m. For instance, PMMA or polyethylene particles at a
density of 0.99-1.01 g/cc can be used for optimal suspension in
water. Bichromal, translucent, opaque, fluorescent, iridescent,
opalescent, magnetic, gold, silver, drug-delivery, long-release,
infrared or highly reflective particles can be used to impart
additional qualities to the item. Small molecule dyes or pigments
may also be bound to extended chain polymers (i.e., polyethylene
glycol, PMMA etc.) and suspended in a solvent to mitigate staining
of the fluidic channels. Fluids may be comprised of a small
molecules, a functionalized polymer, nanoparticles, microparticles,
or combinations therein.
[0084] In certain embodiments, optical properties can be altered by
using a fluid comprised of dyes, pigments, polymeric dyes, nano- or
microparticles with color molecules covalently attached, adsorbed,
mixed, or otherwise attached. In other embodiments, scent can be
altered by using a fluid comprised of small organic compounds,
volatile aromatic compounds, perfumes, etc. In other embodiments,
thermal properties can be altered by using a fluid comprised of
boron nitride, aluminum, copper particles to increase the heat
transfer coefficient, ceramics, metal particles, or other polymers.
In other embodiments, mechanical properties can be altered by using
a fluid comprised of high viscosity liquids such as higher
concentrations of polyethylene glycol to control stiffness of the
equipment of apparel. In other embodiments thixotropic, shear
thickening, shear thinning, or other non-Newtonian fluids can be
added to modulate the modulus of elasticity of the apparel or
equipment. In other embodiments, mechanical properties can be
altered by using a fluid comprised of large microparticles to
distend the microfluidic circuit to add texture to apparel or
equipment. In other embodiments, electromagnetic properties can be
altered by using a fluid comprised of iron particles to increase
the Chi of the apparel or equipment. In other embodiments,
therapeutic properties can be altered by using a fluid comprised of
pharmaceutical compounds such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
compounds, corticosteroids, local anesthetics such as lidocaine,
vasodilator, vasoconstrictor, or antiseptics. In such embodiments,
the porosity or permeability of the microfluidic circuit may be
enhanced by interactions with the apparel or equipment, e.g.,
walking on a therapeutic shoe, body heat in a therapeutic vest,
flexing a therapeutic wristband.
Cartridges & Dye Materials
[0085] Cartridges used in any system described herein may take any
suitable form. In one embodiment, a cartridge provided for herein
comprises a plastic container that contains either dry and/or wet
color materials. In certain embodiments where the cartridges
contain fluid, the cartridges could be sealed on top with a
compliant plastic bag that would expand into the void of the
cartridge as the colored fluid is pumped out of the cartridge.
Cartridges can be connected to the mixing manifold by luer locks,
tubes, septum valves, etc. Prior to insertion into the dock, the
cartridges could be sealed by a tab or a valve. If shipped with
dessicated ink, the cartridges could be open to the air, and the
dock could push fluid through them to reconstitute and deliver the
color. In certain embodiments, fluidic cartridges contain a waste
compartment to receive fluid from the outlet of the microfluidic
circuit.
Docking Station Sensors
[0086] In order to accommodate microfluidic circuits of different
volumes, e.g., in the case of different sized shoes, the docking
station may include sensors substantially configured to measure
fluid properties of the microfluidic circuit. Such sensors can be
incorporated within the extent of the docking station or
alternatively within the connector to observe the flow at the inlet
or outlet. In certain embodiments where a homogeneous fluid is
required throughout the circuit, fluid flows until the color at the
outlet matches the color at the inlet within a desired tolerance.
In other embodiments, fluid flows until the color at the outlet
matches the preselected color to a desired tolerance. Incorporation
of a sensor network within the docking station allows the fluid
transfer interface to be guided by a control system (PID, PI,
negative feedback, and so forth) to regulate pressures within
operable limits. In certain pumps, such as serial piezoelectric
pumps, sensors can be integrated into the pump head to facilitate
pressure balancing. The dock may include a variety of types of
sensors, including flow sensors, pressure sensors, and optical
sensors. Within embodiments containing optical sensors, the dock
may further comprise a light source to illuminate the dye within
the microfluidic circuit to enable facilitate optical sensing; for
instance, through the use of a plurality of light emitting diodes,
filaments, or fluorescent sources. The dock may also be comprised
of ultrasonic or acoustic sensors to detect flow.
[0087] One preferred method of active feedback to indicate to the
dock when start and stop flow is to incorporate a "start codon" or
a "stop codon" of fluid and or air so that a very clear signal is
sent to the docking station upon reaching the end of the previous
fluid pattern. These codons can be comprised of a high frequency
pattern of air and color, for instance five air pulses and five
black pulses in a row. In such an embodiment, codons would precede
or follow every fluid injection cycle, and would be easily
recognizable during sensing.
User Interfaces
[0088] In certain embodiments, the user interface can be running on
a computer or phone connected to the docking station (through USB,
802.11 wireless, bluetooth, infrared, internet, etc.) wherein the
interface allows the user to control the color of individual
compartments of the item. Color selections can be made through an
on-screen color wheel, eyedropper tool to sample a color from a
picture, or through a mobile application that allows image sampling
and subsequent selection of color preferences. In certain
embodiments, the user manually selects a color (or image, or
portion of an image) from an image uploaded to the screen via
camera, phone, internet, etc. Color parameters can also be
downloaded and shared through a network that allows social
networking with friends to coordinate item colors for that day.
Color parameters can be selected automatically through
crowdsourcing, data mining, pushed from central servers, and so
forth. In one embodiment, basketball teams can coordinate shoe
colors for home and away games through a social network. In another
embodiment, marketing efforts can distribute codes to correspond to
select color palettes on certain days. In yet another embodiment,
complimentary color combinations are applied across a broad variety
of items, such as shoes, backpacks, hats and belts. In other
embodiments, the user preferences may extend to material properties
other than color.
[0089] In other embodiments, the dock would not contain a mixing
element and the choices in the user interface would be constrained
to the current panel of colors within the dock. For instance, a
single color cartridge could be swapped out of the dock at a time.
In this embodiment, the interface could be appropriately
simplified, using a manual pump (e.g., a syringe) to initiate
pumping of fluid. Flow could also be automatically initiated upon
connecting the item to the single colored dock (e.g., through a
vacuum chamber).
[0090] Communication of preferred volume and pressure parameters
between the item and docking station can be facilitated by an
EEPROM or RFID tag within the apparel or equipment. Such a
communication paradigm would allow parameters of the equipment or
apparel to be sent to the dock, for instance, volume of the fluidic
channel, number and location of valves, type of fluidic channel,
preferential pressure algorithms, item identification, or any other
data that would facilitate efficient modulation of appearance or
material properties. In yet other embodiments, the user would enter
a code representing the pertinent details of item.
[0091] Once the item has been identified, the user interface
software can query a central server to retrieve essential valving,
volume and pressure parameters. Codes could also be used to
retrieve relevant metadata that enhances a user experience. The
metadata could include three-dimensional models of the item, social
networking enhanced profiles of friends or users of similar items.
Metadata could also be comprised of shared parameter sets (i.e.,
color combinations, appearance, or other material properties)
derived from friends, celebrities, sports figures, authorities
(coaches, athletic directors, marketing directors, art directors,
etc.), or promotional materials (television giveaways, soda caps,
etc.). Metadata could also be made to be malleable across apparel
and equipment; for instance, color schemes for multiple design
elements within shoes, logos on hats, and ribbing within sporting
equipment could be coordinated through the hierarchical assignment
of valve priorities (where each item would have a primary valve
set, secondary valve set, etc., and the color programs would be
coordinated between items). An example of the workflow is shown in
FIG. 17.
* * * * *