Abstract: Methods and apparatus for generating droplets are disclosed. In one arrangement a peristaltic screw pump is configured to drive pulsatile flows of fluids in different conduits which are phased relative to each other such that a sequence of droplets are formed at a junction downstream from the pump.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for generating droplets are disclosed. In one arrangement a peristaltic screw pump is configured to drive pulsatile flows of fluids in different conduits which are phased relative to each other such that a sequence of droplets are formed at a junction downstream from the pump.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for introducing a sample into a separation channel for electrophoresis are disclosed. In one arrangement sample droplets having a membrane that encapsulates a sample are formed and brought to an injection position in contact with a transport medium of a separation channel. An electric field is applied to rupture the sample droplets and cause the sample to enter the separation channel and undergo electrophoresis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a microfluidic system for generating droplets, the controlled merging of two or more droplets, and the analysis of droplets.

Abstract: We present an invention on the synthesis of elastic, bio-compatible functional microstructures wherein the designed electrical functionalities are achieved by mixing conducting nano to micro-particles with PDMS gels. The methodology for constructing planar and three-dimensional microstructures by soft-lithographic technique is presented. Applications such as electrodes, conducting strips, two and three-dimensional microstructures for electrical wiring connections, micro heaters, micro heater arrays, flexible thermochromic displays, and applications for microfluidic devices are demonstrated, all with demonstrated elastic flexibility and fall-proof characteristics while maintaining their functionalities. Results obtained are very promising for the utilization of such composites in future micro-fabrications, especially for the bio-chips and microfluidic devices.

Abstract: The subject disclosure relates to microfluidic devices, systems and methodologies that facilitate generation of droplets, control, and/or manipulation thereof with electrorheological (ER) fluids. In one aspect, ER fluids can be employed with a carrier fluid or as a carrier fluid to enable droplet generation, control, and/or manipulation. As a further advantage, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can include droplet generation, control, and/or manipulation for liquids, gases, combinations, etc. Further non-limiting embodiments are provided that illustrate the advantages and flexibility of the disclosed structures.

Abstract: We present an invention on the synthesis of elastic, bio-compatible functional microstructures wherein the designed electrical functionalities are achieved by mixing conducting nano to micro-particles with PDMS gels. The methodology for constructing planar and three-dimensional microstructures by soft-lithographic technique is presented. Applications such as electrodes, conducting strips, two and three-dimensional microstructures for electrical wiring connections, micro heaters, micro heater arrays, flexible thermochromic displays, and applications for microfluidic devices are demonstrated, all with demonstrated elastic flexibility and fall-proof characteristics while maintaining their functionalities. Results obtained are very promising for the utilization of such composites in future micro-fabrications, especially for the bio-chips and microfluidic devices.