Low-Energy Circulating, Filtering, and One-Way Fluid Flow.

Mammals require a mechanism to regulate the hydraulic pressure in their cells and vessels and monitor the quality of their blood. The lymphatic system serves as a complement to both the circulatory and immune systems. It collects the residual liquid and circulating lymphatic fluid throughout the body, utilizing pressure differentials and one-way valves to propel the fluid through a network of vessels. These one-way flap valves prevent the backward flow of fluid, ensuring its movement towards the veins where it rejoins the circulatory system. Along this pathway, lymph nodes serve as filtration and immune checkpoints. As inspiration from this natural mechanism, engineers can design bioinspired liquid flow systems that maintain internal hydraulic pressure equilibrium and incorporate one-way valves to prevent backflow. Moreover, these systems can incorporate filtration and analysis of specific fluid characteristics.