Abstract: Methods and apparatus for manipulation, detection, imaging, characterization, sorting and/or assembly of biological or other materials, involving an integration of CMOS or other semiconductor-based technology and microfluidics. In one implementation, various components relating to the generation of electric and/or magnetic fields are implemented on an IC chip that is fabricated using standard protocols. The generated electric and/or magnetic fields are used to manipulate and/or detect one or more dielectric and/or magnetic particles and distinguish different types of particles. A microfluidic system is fabricated either directly on top of the IC chip, or as a separate entity that is then appropriately bonded to the IC chip, to facilitate the introduction and removal of cells in a biocompatible environment, or other particles/objects of interest suspended in a fluid.

Abstract: A micro-electromagnet matrix captures and controls the movement of particles with nanoscale resolution. The micro-electromagnet matrix includes multiple layers of microconductors, each layer of microconductors being orthogonal to an adjacent layer or microconductors. The layers of microconductors are formed on a substrate and have insulating layers therebetween. The field patterns produced by the micro-electromagnet matrix enable precise manipulation of particles. The micro-electro-magnet matrix produces single or multiple independent field peaks in the magnetic field that are used to trap, move, or rotate the particles. The micro-electromagnet matrix also produces electromagnetic fields to probe and detect particles.