Abstract: In a method of forming a solid article of predetermined shape from a liquid which can be cured by exposure to radiation, a surface upon which the article is to be formed is provided. A predetermined region of the surface is exposed to a beam of radiation. Liquid is then supplied to an unexposed region of the surface such that a solid barrier, defining a surface of the solid article, is created at the interface of the liquid and the beam. The solid barrier is effective as a mold to contain the liquid which has been supplied but not yet cured until this liquid is cured. Such a method can be used to encapsulate a microelectronic device.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge for use in a clinical sensing arrangement interfaces electrically with a host instrument capable of responding to electrical signals generated by detector devices incorporated in the cartridge upon exposure to calibrant fluids and/or clinical fluids under examination. The cartridge includes a passage linking a reservoir of calibrant fluid to the detector devices and further linking the device to a closed container for fluid which has been conveyed past the devices. A fluid under test can be introducted into the cartridge through the passage wall at a location disposed between the reservoir and the detector devices.

Abstract: A capillary fill encapsulation technique and a device so encapsulated is described such that a selected region of a device may be encapsulated while leaving other regions of the device uncovered.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement is described in which a semi-conductor component, such as an ion-selective field-effect transistor (ISFET) is secured to a ducting component containing ducts to carry fluid towards and away from a sensitive region of the ISFET. The two components are secured together by means of a gasket formed of porous material and apertured where adhesion of the components to one another is not required. The gasket is inserted between the components and adhesive applied to an exposed portion, such as a tab, of the gasket. The adhesive is distributed by capillary action to all parts of the gasket and secures the components together without affecting those areas of the components juxtaposed with the apertured region or regions of the gasket.