Abstract: A system for operating handheld three-dimensional filament extrusion device is provided. The system includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet. A Bowden style mechanism is coupled to the housing and has a motor coupled to a filament engagement mechanism. A filament holder is coupled to the housing and transfers the filament to the Bowden style mechanism. A 3D drawing device defines a pathway that receives filament from the outlet and transfers the filament to a heated section. The drawing device includes a nozzle coupled to the heated section and an actuator. A controller having a processor is responsive to an actuation of the at least one actuator for causing the motor to rotate in a first direction to move the filament through the inlet and outlet to the drawing device and to cause the heated section to at least partially melt the filament moving through the drawing device.

Abstract: A system for operating handheld three-dimensional filament extrusion device is provided. The system includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet. A Bowden style mechanism is coupled to the housing and has a motor coupled to a filament engagement mechanism. A filament holder is coupled to the housing and transfers the filament to the Bowden style mechanism. A 3D drawing device defines a pathway that receives filament from the outlet and transfers the filament to a heated section. The drawing device includes a nozzle coupled to the heated section and an actuator. A controller having a processor is responsive to an actuation of the at least one actuator for causing the motor to rotate in a first direction to move the filament through the inlet and outlet to the drawing device and to cause the heated section to at least partially melt the filament moving through the drawing device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices that include a reliable seal between a substrate of the device and a fluid transport mechanism. The devices of the invention include at least one internal channel, and at least one port in fluid communication with the channel. A seal is associated with the port and is configured to receive a fluid transport mechanism. The seal is formed from an elastomeric material that is compatible for use with fluorinated oil and resists flaking and degradation.

Abstract: A device for performing biological analysis may include at least one reaction chamber configured to receive at least one sample for biological analysis and a thermal system configured to modulate a temperature of the at least one reaction chamber to cycle a temperature of the at least one biological sample. The thermal system may include a cooling system configured to cool the at least one reaction chamber. The cooling system may include a cooling fluid source positioned distally from the at least one reaction chamber, the cooling fluid source being in flow communication with at least one conduit configured to flow cooling fluid from the cooling fluid source to at least one location in thermal communication with the at least one reaction chamber.