Abstract: A first structure of a microfluidic system is fabricated via a first additive manufacturing process. The first structure has at least one first fluidic port and at least one first conduit. Each first conduit connects to one of the at least one first fluidic port. A second structure of the microfluidic system is fabricated on the first structure via a second additive manufacturing process. The second structure has at least one second conduit. The second structure is fabricated such that the at least one second conduit is sealed to the at least one first fluidic port and such that the at least one first conduit is in fluid communication with the at least one second conduit. The second additive manufacturing process employs ex situ direct laser writing, while the first additive manufacturing process employs an additive manufacturing modality different from the second additive manufacturing process.

Abstract: A plurality of heterogeneous microparticles can be provided, each having a shell, a payload, and a cap. The shell can define a core and an orifice in fluid communication with the core. The payload can be disposed within the core. The cap can be coupled to the shell so as to seal the orifice. The shell and cap of the microparticles can be formed by an additive manufacturing method, for example, by patterning of photomaterials using electromagnetic radiation or a particle beam. When subjected to a triggering event, at least a portion of each orifice can be exposed from the respective cap so as to release, through the exposed orifice portion, the corresponding payload from the core of the shell. The microparticles can be used in various applications, such as controlled delivery of drugs, chemicals, or biological agents, self-healing or self-lubricating materials, and failure prevention or mitigation.

Abstract: A bender for conduit which may make ninety degree bends in a length of conduit. The bender includes a bending frame, a bending deck, a rising shoe assembly and a traveling shoe assembly. A length of conduit is oriented parallel to the bending deck and then a desired portion of the conduit inserted into the traveling shoe assembly and a corresponding portion of the conduit is inserted into the rising shoe assembly. The rising shoe assembly is translated along an axis substantially perpendicular to the bending deck. The traveling shoe assembly is then translated along an axis substantially parallel to the bending deck. The complimentary translations of the rising shoe assembly and traveling shoe assembly cooperatively make a ninety degree bend in the conduit.