First single platform for 3D imaging and metrology of microfluidic devices characterises subsurface structure in transparent media with submicron accuracy; provides immediate feedback for fabrication
Hyphenated Systems, a provider of hybrid microscopy solutions for three-dimensional (3D) imaging and metrology in micro- and nanotechnology, announces 3Dmap (microfluidics analysis platform), a new platform that provides 3D structural metrology for developers and manufacturers of microfluidic devices.
The high-resolution measurements of size and shape provided by 3Dmap are essential in all phases of microfludics development, from understanding fundamental physical phenomena through developing novel devices and controlling fabrication processes.
3Dmap is said to be unique in its ability to provide fast, accurate sub-micron structural characterisation of all aspects of microfluidic devices, including steep slopes, rough surfaces, and subsurface features in transparent media.
These are not measurable with alternative techniques, says the company.
It is built around Hyphenated Systems' advanced confocal microscope (ACM), which can acquire and render a high-resolution, 3D model of the sample in seconds.
The system's inverted optics and open architecture are designed to facilitate the integration of additional analytical techniques, such as flow measurement, live cell imaging, fluorescent bead characterisation, surface roughness analysis, and more - all on a single platform.
"Although there have been great strides made in the field of microfluidics in recent years, researchers and engineers have been hampered by the lack of a single system that provides fast, accurate characterisation of the complex structures they are designing," said Terence Lundy, vice president and managing director, Hyphenated Systems.
"The detailed size and shape of these structures is absolutely critical to the operation of microfluidic devices.
3Dmap meets this need, and its open architecture provides the user with the flexibility to add additional techniques as they are needed, constituting a complete analytical solution on a single platform".
"Advanced confocal microscopy has the fundamental resolution and subsurface capability required for microfluidics development," said Nick Doe, chief technical officer, Hyphenated Systems.
"The ability to make subsurface measurements quickly and easily provides critical feedback that is essential in understanding and controlling the processes used for microfluidic devices".
3Dmap, and Fluid3D analytical software, are available immediately from Hyphenated Systems.
Hyphenated Systems is a provider of hybrid microscopy solutions for three-dimensional imaging and metrology down to the nanometer level (in the Z axis).
The company's systems are based on combinations of optical (conventional and advanced confocal) and atomic force microscopy.
