Hyphenated Systems, a world-wide provider of hybrid microscopy solutions for three-dimensional (3D) imaging and metrology in micro- and nanotechnology, announced today a joint development program (JDP) with the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). Under the agreement, Hyphenated Systems will make available one of its 3D MAP™ (Microfluidics Analysis Platform) tools to Professor Meinhart’s research group at the Microfluidics Laboratory for use in investigating the fundamental relationships between structure and flow in microfluidic devices.
3D MAP uses advanced confocal microscopy to visualize and measure 3D structure and flow with sub-micrometer resolution. The system is unique in its ability to provide fast, accurate, structural characterization of all aspects of microfluidic devices - including steep slopes, rough surfaces, and subsurface features in transparent media - that are difficult or impossible to measure with alternative techniques.
Dr. Carl Meinhart, Associate Professor at the UCSB Department of Mechanical Engineering says, “Our research includes developing micron-resolution particle image velocimetry (micro-PIV), ac electrokinetic devices for concentrating DNA & enhancing immunoassay reactions, and investigating structure/fluid interactions in biological cells. The 3D MAP from Hyphenated Systems will be help us gain an understanding of the dynamic behavior of fluids and their interactions with solid structures in microfluidic devices.”
Terence Lundy, Vice President and Managing Director of Hyphenated Systems adds, “The field of microfluidics is in its infancy and there is still a lot of research and development to be done. It is our mission to provide the tools that researchers and engineers need to develop a fundamental understanding of microfluidic phenomena and convert that knowledge into commercial products. We are pleased to have the opportunity to support Dr. Meinhart’s pioneering work in microfluidics.”