Micro-Assembler Light Pattern Control for Precise Micro-Object Placement

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Solution Overview

Problem

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

Innovation Solution

A micro-assembler system using an array of phototransistors that switch voltages to generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces, allowing for the precise manipulation and placement of micro-objects by applying control patterns with light, enabling the formation of specific shapes or patterns on the surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional methods are used to place micro-objects, then the process is simpler, but the placement precision and pattern formation capability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplacement precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical manipulation methods with optical fields (light patterns) to control micro-object placement. Phototransistors generate electric fields that manipulate micro-objects without physical contact, achieving high precision while avoiding mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces phototransistors as intermediary elements that convert light patterns into electric fields. These phototransistors act as mediators between the optical control system and the micro-objects, enabling precise placement through field-based manipulation rather than direct mechanical handling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If manual selection methods are used for micro-objects, then the process is faster, but the selection accuracy from large pools is poor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveselection accuracyVSAvoidselection speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual selection with optical field-based manipulation. Light patterns selectively activate phototransistors that generate electric fields to capture and move specific micro-objects, enabling both high-speed automated selection and high accuracy through programmable control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses dynamically controllable light patterns that can be reconfigured in real-time to select and manipulate different micro-objects. The electric fields generated by phototransistors are dynamically adjusted to track and select target objects from moving pools, maintaining both speed and accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If simple placement methods are used, then the system is easier to operate, but the ability to form complex shapes and patterns is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepattern formation capabilityVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal placement system where light patterns can be programmed to form any desired shape or pattern. The same phototransistor array and control architecture handle both simple and complex patterns, providing versatility without sacrificing operational simplicity through automated control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses pre-programmed light patterns that define target shapes and patterns before micro-object placement begins. The control system预先 configures the electric field distribution to match the desired final pattern, making complex shape formation as simple as loading a pattern file

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 the precise and efficient placement and orientation of micro-objects, allowing for the formation of complex patterns and shapes on the surface, improving the accuracy and speed of micro-object manipulation.

Implementation Method 1

generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectrophoresis:

Implementation Method 2

generate dielectrophoretic (DEP) and electrophoretic (EP) forces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrophoresis: Electrophoresis

Implementation Method 3

A micro-assembler system using an array of phototransistors that switch voltages

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11891299B2Method of controlling the placement of micro-objects

Publication Date: 2024.02.06 GENESEE VALLEY INNOVATIONS LLC

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.