Abstract: A drift-adjusted interferometer and optical trap are disclosed that employ two reference beams with an optical property that allows them to be separated from the two trapping beams. The reference and trapping beams are combined collinearly and optically inverted so that each reference beam overlays with the opposite trapping beam. Each pair of beams is then focused on a microsphere and the resulting four back-focal plane interferometry signals are monitored such that the relative motion between a given trapping beam with its overlaid reference beam provides a direct measurement of the physical drift occurring due to mechanical drift of the differential path components.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are described for the use of optically driven bubble, convective and displacing fluidic flow to provide motive force in microfluidic devices. Alternative motive modalities are useful to selectively dislodge and displace micro-objects, including biological cells, from a variety of locations within the enclosure of a microfluidic device.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the automated detection of micro-objects in a microfluidic device. In addition, methods are provided for repositioning micro-objects in a microfluidic device. In addition, methods are provided for separating micro-objects in a spatial region of the microfluidic device.

Abstract: Optically-actuated microfluidic devices permit the use of spatially-modulated light to manipulate micro-objects such as biological cells. Systems and methods are described for providing sequences of light patterns to move and direct a plurality of micro-objects within the environment of a microfluidic device. The sequenced light patterns provide improved efficiency in directing the transport of the plurality of micro-objects. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: In situ-generated microfluidic isolation structures incorporating a solidified polymer network, methods of preparation and use, compositions and kits therefor are described. The ability to introduce in real time, a variety of isolating structures including pens and barriers offers improved methods of micro-object manipulation in microfluidic devices. The in situ-generated isolation structures may be permanently or temporarily installed.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the automated detection of micro-objects in a microfluidic device. In addition, methods are provided for repositioning micro-objects in a microfluidic device. In addition, methods are provided for separating micro-objects in a spatial region of the microfluidic device.

Abstract: A drift-adjusted interferometer and optical trap are disclosed that employ two reference beams with an optical property that allows them to be separated from the two trapping beams. The reference and trapping beams are combined collinearly and optically inverted so that each reference beam overlays with the opposite trapping beam. Each pair of beams is then focused on a microsphere and the resulting four back-focal plane interferometry signals are monitored such that the relative motion between a given trapping beam with its overlaid reference beam provides a direct measurement of the physical drift occurring due to mechanical drift of the differential path components.

Abstract: A MEMS-based micro-unmanned vehicle includes at least a pair of wings having leading wing beams and trailing wing beams, at least two actuators, a leading actuator beam coupled to the leading wing beams, a trailing actuator beam coupled to the trailing wing beams, a vehicle body having a plurality of fulcrums pivotally securing the leading wing beams, the trailing wing beams, the leading actuator beam and the trailing actuator beam and having at least one anisotropically etched recess to accommodate a lever-fulcrum motion of the coupled beams, and a power source.