Micro-Assembler DEP/EP Control for Dividing Micro-Object Sets

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Solution Overview

Problem

The precise placement and orientation of micro-objects on a surface is challenging due to their small size, making it difficult to form specific shapes or select them from a large pool.

Innovation Solution

A micro-assembler system using an array of phototransistors to generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces by switching voltages on capacitors, controlled by a computing device and light patterns, allows for precise manipulation and placement of micro-objects into desired positions and orientations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional methods are used to place micro-objects, then the process is simpler, but the placement precision and ability to form specific shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplacement precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the micro-assembler surface into multiple independently controllable electrode regions, allowing selective activation of specific zones to manipulate individual micro-objects or groups. This segmentation enables precise local control while maintaining overall system manageability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical manipulation methods with electric field-based control. By applying voltages to electrode regions, the system generates forces that manipulate micro-objects without physical contact, achieving high precision placement while avoiding mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If manual selection and placement of micro-objects is performed, then the system is easier to operate, but the productivity and speed of assembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly speedVSAvoidoperational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates sensors that detect the positions and orientations of micro-objects on the micro-assembler. This feedback information is used by the controller to automatically adjust electrode activations, enabling the system to self-correct and achieve precise placement without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The micro-assembler system performs automatic detection, decision-making, and manipulation of micro-objects. The controller autonomously determines which electrode regions to activate based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining high precision and speed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If micro-objects are densely packed to increase assembly capacity, then the productivity improves, but the measurement and detection accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly capacityVSAvoiddetection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different voltage levels and control strategies to different electrode regions based on local conditions. Each region can be independently optimized for detection or manipulation, allowing high-density packing while maintaining detection accuracy through localized control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables rapid and accurate positioning and orientation of micro-objects into specific shapes or patterns, facilitating efficient assembly of devices.

Implementation Method 1

A micro-assembler system using an array of phototransistors to generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectrophoresis:

Implementation Method 2

A micro-assembler system using an array of phototransistors to generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrophoresis: Electrophoresis

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP3674976B1Micro-assembler system for dividing sets of micro-objects

Publication Date: 2025.10.15 PALO ALTO RESEARCH CENTER INC

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AI summary

Disclosed are methods and systems of controlling the placement of micro-objects on the surface of a micro-assembler. Control patterns may be used to cause phototransistors or electrodes of the micro-assembler to generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces which may be used to manipulate, move, position, or orient one or more micro-objects on the surface of the micro-assembler. A set of micro-object may be analyzed. Geometric properties of the set of micro-objects may be identified. The set of micro-objects may be divided into multiple sub-sets of micro-objects based on the one or more geometric properties and one or more control patterns.