State-variable control system

摘要

The invention relates to a state-variable feedback control system for monitoring and optimally controlling the operation of a microfluidic aspirate dispense-system. A steady state operating pressure is determined from the fluid, flow and/or operational characteristics of the system. Measurements from one or more pressure sensors are part of the control strategy to derive information for active feedback control and/or to achieve the desired operating pressure. Advantageously, the control system adds to the versatility of the aspirate-dispense system, for example, by permitting rapid dispensing of drops of different size. The control system also desirably facilitates efficient, repeatable and accurate performance and reduces wastage of valuable reagents or fluid.