导致这些结果的研究已根据欧盟第七框架计划（FP7 / 2007-2013）收到的资金从欧洲研究委员会/ ERC赠款协议，N 2 O [291349]光子微型机器人，并从IIT SEED项目Microswim。我们也承认在恩特卡萨迪Risparmio di Firenze酒店的支持。我们感谢复杂系统组的整个光学镜头处反馈和讨论。

注:此协议包含三个步骤:IP-L光栅液晶分子取向的准备，DLW在LCE光驱动特性。直接激光写入系统的示意图示于图1，而在图5中示出的微处理系统。 1. IP-L光栅型准备<ol><li>取一颗颗显微镜盖玻片（直径3厘米），并用丙酮透镜组织清洁。 </li><li>放置一些隔离物（玻璃微球）与金属尖端的帮助下在3个不同的载玻片的点从其中心约0.5厘米。 </li><li>放置在隔板的顶部的另一个载玻片（直径1cm）。使用笔尖轻轻按压在上载玻片的顶部。 </li><li>放置紫外光固化胶在三个不同点一滴（约2微升）分别在上部玻璃的边界。 </li><li>前胶水渗透太多INT澳差距，用UV光固化胶。现已形成细胞。 </li><li>进行IP L的树脂的使用移液管的小区的边界上的一滴（约10微升）。等待几分钟，直到液体被渗透到细胞的整个区域。 </li><li>用胶水固定在样品支架上的细胞，并将其放置到直接激光写入系统。 </li><li>选择一个100X目标，并且发现在上部内表面上的接口，随后在该表面上的倾斜校正。 </li><li>分别写设计的IP-L光栅图案的结构用激光功率和6毫瓦的扫描速度和60微米/秒。光栅图案是由IP-L曲线或直线的。 </li><li>重复步骤1.8 1.9下部内表面上。 </li><li>取出细胞​​，并浸泡在2-丙醇浴中的样品，而无需打开单元，12 - 24小时。 </li><li>取出从溶剂的细胞，并使其干燥的热板（50℃）10 - 20分钟。 </li></ol> 2. LCE微加工<ol><li>天平上测量〜300毫克的单体混合物。 见表1中的分子组成。 </li><li>将准备好的混合物中的玻璃瓶内，并把它放在一个热点板块集中在70 - 80℃。 </li><li>等到所有粉末熔化，加入磁力搅拌器，和1小时混合该混合物（90 - 150转）。 </li><li>放置在热板上的细胞在60℃。 </li><li>放置在更小的玻璃载片的边缘混合物一滴（约20微升），并等待直到液体渗透到细胞中。 </li><li>细胞转移到光学显微镜用交叉偏振器和温度控制器。保持在黑暗中的一切转移期间，把一个橙色滤波器的照明灯之前滤除紫外线。 </li><li>通过使用显微镜温度控制器增加60℃以上的电池单元的温度，然后降低温度（2 - 10°每分钟Ç），测量温度范围为液晶相。不同分子组成的混合物具有不同的液晶相温度。一个良好的均匀向列液晶相可通过观察图像对比度反转而转动样品每45°相对于所述偏振轴被识别。 </li><li>固定在样品支架上的细胞，将其放入DLW系统，并设置为到达液晶相的温度（在步骤2.7测量）。 </li><li>发现在下部内表面的界面和没有找到的接口执行使用100X物镜或10X物镜的倾斜校正。 </li><li>通过使用100X物镜写通过使用DLW的用激光功率和4毫瓦的扫描速度和60微米/秒的较低的载玻片LCE结构。否则，通过使用10X物镜（在整个样品厚度LCE结构被制造）用激光功率和14毫瓦的扫描速度和60微米/秒使用。 </li><li>取出细胞​​，并用刀片将打开细胞除去上层载玻片。 </li><li>沉浸在甲苯浴中结构5分钟。 </li><li>取出样品，并在空气中干燥10分钟。 </li></ol> 3. LCE微观的光致动的表征<ol><li>放置在光学显微镜（20X）的样品和聚焦的激光束 - 通过在结构10X物镜（CW，532纳米，50 500毫瓦）。 </li><li>通过光学显微镜CMOS摄像头（帧频25.8 fps）的观察光致变形。 </li><li>使用显微操作的系统（ 图5）的手动控制放玻璃尖在接近LCE微结构的位置上。 </li><li>开关上以低功率（〜20毫瓦）的激光，在为了增加LCE的温度（由于光吸收），因此软化的结构。 </li><li>使用玻璃尖接起来一听LCE微观结构，并保持它在空气中。需要该处理，以避免从玻璃表面的粘合性。 </li><li>敦Ë激光的高功率（&gt; 100 MW），并观察LCE结构变形。 </li><li>记录与显微摄像机的光致变形。 </li></ol>

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The authors declare that they have no competing financial interests.

IP-L微光栅取向技术已经集成DLW到定向的液晶单体。随后激光写入LCE微型结构也可以与在微观尺度上设计对准图案化。这项技术允许我们创建可支持多种功能复合LCE元素。随着创建精确的三维微结构和驱动控制能力突出，我们预计将用于创建基于弹性体的微观机器人14这种技术，并开辟新的战略，为大量的光可调谐装置15的获得。 有在制备两个关键步骤。第一个是该小区的两个眼镜应紧紧粘（步骤1.4，1.5）。紫外光固化胶水保留的发展过程中的细胞几何形状的稳定性:电池的玻璃在相对于另一个的运动将导致一个最坏的对准在LCE。其次，LCE结构写入期间激光写入速度应而被选择100X物镜尽可能高。由于在激光写入过程中的低碳经济的强劲肿胀，膨胀的结构就会搬出设计位置，从而影响到制造执行器的质量。 在一些情况下，光致变形被观察到的结构恶化。这可能是由于高照明强度下的染料漂白。一旦染料分子已被关闭时，LCE结构表现为透明介质，光吸收/光致变形被抑制。较低的激光功率将是低碳经济的微观结构的动作更安全。 也有这种方法的一些缺点。首先，整个过程需要相当长的时间。为了保持细胞的配置，所述第一IP-L开发过程中（通过浸渍SAMP制成勒在溶剂浴）是在2- proponal进行不打开细胞。因而在显影时间取决于小区大小和间隙的厚度，并且通常需要12 - 24小时。替换IP-L与其它激光可写的模式，如激光诱导烧蚀图案和激光诱导化学修饰的表面光栅，可能导致液晶取向，并在大大降低的制造时间。第二，LCE是总是遭受在玻璃基板上粘附的软物质。当微观粘在表面上的光引起的变形已经被抑制。第三，该结构的高度由该单元的厚度和物镜的工作距离的限制。在激光写入系统中，最大高度为大约100微米。最近研发的3D打印技术可以用于创建从细观光驱动的LCE结构宏观尺度一个很好的候选人。但是，在聚合过程中保持了分子取向可以令人担忧的主要问题。 这种技术是独特的，因为允许人们在真正微尺度，这是不可能与其他现有技术得到的三维的自由形式的致动器。 LCE微观结构可以具有不同的分子取向和功能进行图案化。通过进一步化学工程等技术的实现，将使做出其他的刺激源的执行机构敏感，将开辟发展高效微型机器人和软光子器件。

微致动器是可以发送的外部能量的另一种机制或系统操作微观结构。由于紧凑的尺寸和遥控能力，它们已经被广泛地应用于实验室片上系统1，微型传感2和微型机器人3。可用迄今所述的致动器只能执行简单的操作，例如在水凝胶基质4膨胀/收缩，收缩/与外部字段中的一个方向弯曲5。虽然最近开发的技术已经使制造微观尺度致动结构如图6所示 ，它仍然是相同的长度尺度来控制这些致动的一大挑战。本文报道的方法制备的3D光激活具有可控性驱动的微观结构。该技术是基于直接激光写入（DLW），它展示了在液晶弹性体（LCES）。 LCES的SOFŧ聚合物梳理弹性体和液体结晶取向的财产。这些材料是能够进行大变形-下各种类型的外部刺激7的（20 400％）。使用LCES用于微致动器的优点是在结构工程分子顺序，其允许控制在微观尺度8的致动的便利性。 LC单体与丙烯酸酯部分合成，使单步光聚合。该属性可以访问不同类型的三维微结构的制造的光刻技术。偶氮染料作为光响应分子通过共聚合方法链接到聚合物网络。这种分子与系统，得到光控变形的光感应加热结合自己的强烈的光反应能力（ 反式 顺式异构化）。 DLW是获得在光敏材料 - 聚合物结构的技术人由聚焦的激光束9的空间控制。 DLW能够在LCE创建3D自由形式的结构不失分子排列6。有在LCE微致动器的制造DLW的几个优点。首先，分辨率能达到亚微米级规模，结构是真正的3D 6。此前报道LCE微加工方法， 例如 ，掩膜曝光10和副本成型11，提供分辨率可达约10微米，只有2D几何体。其次，DLW是一种非接触式制造工艺。合适的溶剂可以开发高品质的结构保持设计的配置。副本成型技术很少给出了亚微米分辨率12和结构质量难以控制。第三，激光写入为在微观尺度8,13当地LC方位多功能的选择。在各种类型的LC定向技术，摩擦是MOSŤ有效的方式来定向液晶分子，并已被广泛地应用于LCE薄膜制备。这已通过上摩擦聚合物层，以产生通过LC单体渗入细胞的内表面上的微槽被普遍实现。由于表面锚定的效果，这样的微槽能够定向沿槽方向在LC分子。 DLW使得在预先设计的方向所选择的区域的那些微槽的高得多的精度直接制造。所有这些特点使DLW的制造和在微观尺度驱动控制完美，独特的技术。 根据DLW，LCE微观结构可以具有不同的分子取向被图案化。与单一LCE结构中的复合定位，多功能的促动成为可能。该方法可用于LCE微致动器的制造与任何类型的LC单体混合物。通过进一步的化学工程，有可能使致动器以其他刺激源敏感， 例如 ，湿度或在不同的波长的照明。

<table><tbody><tr><td>Molecular: LC monomer</td><td>SYNTHON Chemicals GmbH &amp;amp; Co. KG</td><td>ST03866</td><td>~78 mol% in the mixture</td></tr><tr><td>Molecular: LC crosslinker</td><td>SYNTHON Chemicals GmbH &amp;amp; Co. KG</td><td>ST03021</td><td>20 mol% in the mixture</td></tr><tr><td>Molecular: Azo dye</td><td>Synthesis referring to Ref. 6</td><td></td><td>1 mol% in the mixture. Light sensitive component, can be excluded in the fabrication for heat driven actuators.</td></tr><tr><td>Molecular: Initiator</td><td>Sigma</td><td>Irgacure 369</td><td>1 - 2 mol% in the mixture</td></tr><tr><td>Spacer</td><td>Thermo scientific</td><td></td><td>Microsphere with diameter from 10 to 100 &amp;micro;m.</td></tr><tr><td>IP-L</td><td>Nanoscribe GmbH</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>UV curing glue</td><td>Homemade</td><td></td><td>IP-L with 1 wt% initiator (Irgacure 369)</td></tr><tr><td>Microscope cover slide</td><td>MENZEL-GL&amp;Auml;SER</td><td></td><td>Diameter: 1 or 3 mm, Thickness: 0.16 - 0.19 mm</td></tr><tr><td>UV LED lamp</td><td>Thorlabs</td><td>M385L2-C4</td><td>Wavelength: 385 &amp;#177; 10 nm</td></tr><tr><td>532 nm laser</td><td>Shanghai Dream Lasers</td><td>SDL-532-500T</td><td>500 mW laser</td></tr><tr><td>Direct Laser Writing system</td><td>Nanoscribe GmbH</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Hot plate</td><td>Linkam Scientific Instruments Ltd.</td><td>PE120</td><td>Temperature range: -20 to 120 &amp;deg;C</td></tr><tr><td>Microscope</td><td>Zeiss</td><td>Axio Observer A1</td><td>With crossed polarizers</td></tr><tr><td>Micro-manipulator</td><td>Narishige</td><td>MHW-3</td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

free-form light actuators &#8212; fabrication and control of actuation in microscopic scale

液晶弹性体（LCES）能够响应于外部刺激可逆形状改变的智能材料，并已引起了研究人员的注意在许多领域。大多数研究侧重于宏观LCE结构（薄膜，纤维）以及它们的小型化仍处于起步阶段。最近开发的光刻技术， 例如 ，掩模曝光和副本成型，只允许在LCE薄膜制作的二维结构。激光直写（DLW）打开进入真正的3D制作在微观尺度。然而，控制在相同的长度尺度的致动拓扑和动力学仍然是一个挑战。 在本文中，我们就来控制液晶（LC）分子排列任意三维形状的LCE微结构的方法报告。这是通过直接激光写入同时为LCE结构的组合以及用于micrograting型态诱导成为可能当地LC对齐。几种类型的光栅图形被用来引入不同的LC路线，它可以随后图案化成为LCE结构。该协议允许一个获得LCE微观与能够执行多个光电机械驱动设计的路线，从而能够多种功能的。应用程序可以在可调光电子，微型机器人，上实验室芯片技术和其他领域预见。

图1示出了用于激光写入光集起来。该系统包括一个780纳米纤维激光器产生在100MHz的重复率130 FSEC脉冲。激光束被反射到望远镜光束轮廓调整到光学显微镜物镜孔径在那里被聚焦到样品。在显微镜中，3D压电阶段安装有一个300×300×300微米3行进范围为样品翻译与在2纳米的分辨率100微米/秒的最大速度。从一个红色灯直线偏振光照射从顶部样品，而图像在由相同的目标的底部收集并通过一个分束器成一CCD照相机反射。相机之前，另一个偏振器用于获得增强的对比度交叉偏振照明。 图2示出了扫描ELEC激光的TRON显微镜（SEM）图像写入IP-L micrograting模式（步骤1）。槽间距在400〜 - 1200纳米，而所述槽（顶部到谷）的高度为约700纳米。具有不同方位的光栅图案可以诱导不同的LC对齐，这取决于LCE元件的所需致动。 图3示出了由IP-L光栅图形（步骤2.7）引起的LC单体取向。第一四种微光栅图案与100×100μm2的大小的每个上制备的玻璃盒（ 图3a示意性地示出）的相对两侧。由于表面锚定，所述渗透的LC单体已与光栅线方向上取向沿，从而表现出在偏光显微镜（POM）图像（ 图3b）45°对比反转。 图4示出了在具有不同取向（步骤2.10）IP-L光栅网络制造的LCE纳米点/线的SEM图像。在光栅网，LCE结构变得更加密闭，用在甲苯开发高得多的阻力。断开LCE的最小宽度已被测量为〜300纳米，这与DLW的分辨率而不光栅格局相一致。对于光子应用另一个有趣的方法可以实现大规模周期性结构的图4的（c，d）表示2D LCE微光栅网络内周期性结构。在比对保存完好这些纳米结构的内部， 如图4的插入POM图像（C，D）。然而，光致变形不能在这些纳米结构得到的。这是因为IP-L光栅内，纳米LCE元件已经高度约束和粘合防止任何可见的变形。 </p&gt; 微操纵系统是基于一个自制的反射镜及在图示意性示出5，一个10X物镜被固定在置于垂直竖立光学平台的透镜管。一个730纳米的IR LED光源通过一个非偏振分束器用于照明。反射图象是由相同的物镜收集并投射在照相机上。连续固态532nm的激光是通过在45°的入射角长传分色镜（50％的透射，并在567毫微米反射）耦合到物镜。功率计测量分色镜对于激光功率的实时检测后的发送波束。直径150微米〜松散聚焦激光光斑产生的〜10 W / mm 2的最大照度。激光强度由放置在激光前面的可变的中性密度滤光器控制。下面的目标，一个3D手动TRanslation阶段被用于样品的翻译。安装在平移台上的加热阶段被用于在一个范围内的样品的温度从-20℃至120℃以0.5℃的精确度的精确控制。安装在两个手动翻译阶段两个玻璃提示已放置在左侧和右侧，靠近样品位置。结构微操纵可以通过仔细的翻译阶段的帮助下移动的尖端来实现。 为了演示的对准和变形的相关性，我们制造具有直径60微米和20微米的高度4 LCE圆柱形结构。这些气瓶都写在四个不同朝向的IP-L光栅区（1微米期）。下光激发下，LCE内的染料吸收光能量，并将其传输到网络中。该LCE结构被加热，然后进行相变（向列各向同性）。这种相变也有帮助通过跨下相同的光刺激的染料的顺式异构化。因此，合同结构沿原液晶排列主任，在垂直方向7扩张。根据由IP-L光栅引起不同的局部路线，这些结构沿不同的方向变形， 如图6（步骤3.1）。 这项技术使化合物的致动器，其包含在一个单一的结构多于一种类型的对准的创建。与对准图案两部分A 400×40×20微米3大小LCE条纹被制作， 如图7示意性示出（a）中 。那些对准部分包含在一个不同的方向上的每个90°的扭曲取向。以平行排列合同表面，而一个与垂直排列在光照扩大。该结构已经PI由显微系统cked起来，并通过一个玻璃尖端举在空中。在光照射（步骤3.3）中观察到双弯曲。调制激光束（使用光学斩波器）可诱发周期性变形。 LCE可以按照激光调制频率（&gt; 1K赫兹）响应。然而，变形幅度随频率的增加而减小14。 <img alt="图1" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig1.jpg" /> 图1:光学设置为直接激光写作 780纳米的激光束（130 FSEC脉冲，100MHz的重复频率）被耦合到显微镜和用光学显微镜物镜聚焦到样品。 300×300×300微米3行程范围内的三维压电阶段用于激光照射在样品翻译。 <a href="https://jove.unicartagenaproxy.elogim.com/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig1large.jpg" target="_blank">请点击此处查看拉</a><html> rger版本这个数字。 <img alt="图2" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig2.jpg" /> 图2:IP-L微光栅的SEM照片的）单向平行线结构。 B）圆光栅图案。比例尺:10微米<a href="https://jove.unicartagenaproxy.elogim.com/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig2large.jpg" target="_blank">请点击此处查看该图的放大版本。</a> <img alt="图3" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig3.jpg" /> 图3:IP-L微光栅诱导的LC取向 a）在设计用于LC取向的微光栅图案的示意图。 b）由所述micrograting图案引起的液晶取向的聚甲醛图像。比例尺是50微米。红色是由于这防止了光聚合的过滤​​器。ge.jpg"目标="_空白"&gt;点击此处查看该图的放大版本。 <img alt="图4" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig4.jpg" /> 图4:LCE纳米结构嵌入到IP-L光栅网络的SEM图像 a）和b）两微光栅图案是由DLW沿不同方向制成，而LCE纳米点光栅网络内制造。 c）和d）定期LCE纳米结构嵌入在相同类型的IP-L光栅内。插图是结构的POM形象。 <a href="https://jove.unicartagenaproxy.elogim.com/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig4large.jpg" target="_blank">请点击此处查看该图的放大版本。</a> <img alt="图5" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig5.jpg" /> 图5:在显微操作设置的原理图 CW固态532 nm激光耦合成<html>自制的显微镜系统。 10倍的目的是用于成像和聚焦的532 nm激光激发。配有玻璃尖操纵两个手动平移台用于样品显微操作。 <a href="https://jove.unicartagenaproxy.elogim.com/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig5large.jpg" target="_blank">请点击此处查看该图的放大版本。</a> <img alt="图6" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig6.jpg" /> 图6:LCE微缸四种不同IP-L Micrograting区域的光与执行机构不同方向一）四LCE圆柱形的结构，直径60微米和20微米的高度，写四个不同取向的微光栅地区。二）LCE钢瓶时暴露于532nm的激光辐射（10宽mm -2）沿不同轴（取决于光栅引起的路线变形）。比例尺:100微米。LES / ftp_upload / 53744 / 53744fig6large.jpg"目标="_空白"&gt;点击此处查看该图的放大版本。 <img alt="图7" src="/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig7.jpg" /> 图7:多分子路线LCE微结构的光驱动变形 ），在一个单一的LCE条纹相反的扭转90°对准的两个部分的示意图。 b）和c）一个400微米长的LCE条下532 nm激光照射（3 W毫米相反的方向弯曲光学图像-2）8。 <a href="https://jove.unicartagenaproxy.elogim.com/files/ftp_upload/53744/53744fig7large.jpg" target="_blank">请点击此处查看该图的放大版本。</a>

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Free-form Light Actuators â€” Fabrication and Control of Actuation in Microscopic Scale at JoVE.com

Free-form Light Actuators &#8212; Fabrication and Control of Actuation in Microscopic Scale

Here, we fabricate 3D polymeric micro/nano structures in which both the shape and the molecular alignment can be engineered with nanometer scale accuracy by the use of direct laser writing. Light induced deformation of several types of liquid crystalline elastomer microstructures can be controlled in the microscopic scale.

自由形式的光驱动器 - 制作和开动控制在微观尺度

Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are smart materials capable of reversible shape-change in response to external stimuli, and have attracted ...

free-form-light-actuators-fabrication-control-actuation-microscopic

Universidad de Cartagena UDEC

Research

JoVE Journal

Engineering

9.2K 次观看.  University of Florence. Here, we fabricate 3D polymeric micro/nano structures in which both the shape and the molecular alignment can be engineered with nanometer scale accuracy by the use of direct laser writing. Light induced deformation of several types of liquid crystalline elastomer microstructures can be controlled in the microscopic scale.

视频: Free-form Light Actuators — Fabrication and Control of Actuation in Microscopic Scale

Microfabricated Platforms for Mechanically Dynamic Cell Culture

The ability to systematically probe in vitro cellular response to combinations of mechanobiological stimuli for tissue engineering, drug discovery or fundamental cell biology studies is limited by current bioreactor technologies, which cannot simultaneously apply a variety of mechanical stimuli to cultured cells. In order to address this issue, we have developed a series of microfabricated platforms designed to screen for the effects of mechanical stimuli in a high-throughput format. In this protocol, we demonstrate the fabrication of a microactuator array of vertically displaced posts on which the technology is based, and further demonstrate how this base technology can be modified to conduct high-throughput mechanically dynamic cell culture in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional culture paradigms.

In this protocol, we demonstrate the fabrication of a microactuator array of vertically displaced posts on which the technology is based, and how this base technology can be modified to conduct high-throughput mechanically dynamic cell culture in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional culture paradigms.

微机械动态细胞培养平台

The ability to systematically probe in vitro cellular response to combinations of mechanobiological stimuli for tissue engineering, drug discovery or ...

科研

生物工程

Fabrication Process of Silicone-based Dielectric Elastomer Actuators

This contribution demonstrates the fabrication process of dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs). DETs are stretchable capacitors consisting of an elastomeric dielectric membrane sandwiched between two compliant electrodes. The large actuation strains of these transducers when used as actuators (over 300% area strain) and their soft and compliant nature has been exploited for a wide range of applications, including electrically tunable optics, haptic feedback devices, wave-energy harvesting, deformable cell-culture devices, compliant grippers, and propulsion of a bio-inspired fish-like airship. In most cases, DETs are made with a commercial proprietary acrylic elastomer and with hand-applied electrodes of carbon powder or carbon grease. This combination leads to non-reproducible and slow actuators exhibiting viscoelastic creep and a short lifetime. We present here a complete process flow for the reproducible fabrication of DETs based on thin elastomeric silicone films, including casting of thin silicone membranes, membrane release and prestretching, patterning of robust compliant electrodes, assembly and testing. The membranes are cast on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates coated with a water-soluble sacrificial layer for ease of release. The electrodes consist of carbon black particles dispersed into a silicone matrix and patterned using a stamping technique, which leads to precisely-defined compliant electrodes that present a high adhesion to the dielectric membrane on which they are applied.

This manuscript shows the fabrication process for the manufacture of dielectric elastomer soft actuators based on silicone membranes. The three key stages of production are presented in detail: blade casting of thin silicone membranes; pad printing of compliant electrodes; and the assembly of all the components.

有机硅为基础的介电弹性体致动器的制作工艺

This contribution demonstrates the fabrication process of dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs). DETs are stretchable capacitors consisting of an ...

工程学

Preparation of Liquid Crystal Networks for Macroscopic Oscillatory Motion Induced by Light

A strategy based on doped liquid crystalline networks is described to create mechanical self-sustained oscillations of plastic films under continuous light irradiation. The photo-excitation of dopants that can quickly dissipate light into heat, coupled with anisotropic thermal expansion and self-shadowing of the film, gives rise to the self-sustained deformation. The oscillations observed are influenced by the dimensions and the modulus of the film, and by the directionality and intensity of the light. The system developed offers applications in energy conversion and harvesting for soft-robotics and automated systems.
The general method described here consists of creating free-standing liquid crystalline films and characterizing the mechanical and thermal effects observed. The molecular alignment is achieved using alignment layers (rubbed polyimide), commonly used in the display manufacturing industry. To obtain actuators with large deformation, the mesogens are aligned and polymerized in a splay/bend configuration, i.e., with the director of the liquid crystals (LCs) going gradually from planar to homeotropic through the film thickness. Upon irradiation, the mechanical and thermal oscillations obtained are monitored with a high-speed camera. The results are further quantified by image analysis using an image processing program.

The goal of the protocol is to create liquid crystalline polymer films that can mechanically oscillate under continuous light irradiation. We describe in great detail the conception of free-standing films, from the liquid crystal alignment method to the photo-actuation. The experimental protocol applied to prepare this material is broadly applicable.

光诱导的宏观振荡运动液晶网络的制备

A strategy based on doped liquid crystalline networks is described to create mechanical self-sustained oscillations of plastic films under continuous ...

Microfluidic Preparation of Liquid Crystalline Elastomer Actuators

This paper focuses on the microfluidic process (and its parameters) to prepare actuating particles from liquid crystalline elastomers. The preparation usually consists in the formation of droplets containing low molar mass liquid crystals at elevated temperatures. Subsequently, these particle precursors are oriented in the flow field of the capillary and solidified by a crosslinking polymerization, which produces the final actuating particles. The optimization of the process is necessary to obtain the actuating particles and the proper variation of the process parameters (temperature and flow rate) and allows variations of size and shape (from oblate to strongly prolate morphologies) as well as the magnitude of actuation. In addition, it is possible to vary the type of actuation from elongation to contraction depending on the director profile induced to the droplets during the flow in the capillary, which again depends on the microfluidic process and its parameters. Furthermore, particles of more complex shapes, like core-shell structures or Janus particles, can be prepared by adjusting the setup. By the variation of the chemical structure and the mode of crosslinking (solidification) of the liquid crystalline elastomer, it is also possible to prepare actuating particles triggered by heat or UV-vis irradiation.

This article describes the microfluidic process and parameters to prepare actuating particles from liquid crystalline elastomers. This process allows the preparation of actuating particles and the variation of their size and shape (from oblate to strongly prolate, core-shell, and Janus morphologies) as well as the magnitude of actuation.

液晶弹性体致动器的微流控制备

This paper focuses on the microfluidic process (and its parameters) to prepare actuating particles from liquid crystalline elastomers. The preparation ...

化学

Fabrication of Soft Pneumatic Network Actuators with Oblique Chambers

Soft pneumatic network actuators have become one of the most promising actuation devices in soft robotics which benefits from their large bending deformation and low input. However, their monotonous bending motion form in two-dimensional (2-D) space keeps them away from wide applications. This paper presents a detailed fabrication method of soft pneumatic network actuators with oblique chambers, to explore their motions in three-dimensional (3-D) space. The design of oblique chambers enables actuators with tunable coupled bending and twisting capabilities, which gives them the possibility to move dexterously in flexible manipulators, to become biologically inspired robots and medical devices. The fabrication process is based on the molding method, including the silicone elastomer preparation, chamber and base parts fabrication, actuator assembly, tubing connections, checks for leaks, and actuator repair. The fabrication method guarantees the rapid manufacturing of a series of actuators with only a few modifications in the molds. The test results show the high quality of the actuators and their prominent bending and twisting capabilities. Experiments of the gripper demonstrate the advantages of the development in adapting to objects with different diameters and providing sufficient friction.

Here we present a fabrication method of soft pneumatic network actuators with oblique chambers. The actuators are capable of generating coupled bending and twisting motions, which broadens their application in soft robotics.

斜腔软气动网络驱动器的研制

Soft pneumatic network actuators have become one of the most promising actuation devices in soft robotics which benefits from their large bending ...

Rapid Manufacturing of Thin Soft Pneumatic Actuators and Robots

This protocol describes a method for rapid manufacturing of soft pneumatic actuators and robots with an ultrathin form factor using a heat press and a laser cutter machine. The method starts with the lamination of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) sheets using a heat press for 10 min at the temperature of ~93 &#176;C. Next, the parameters of the laser cutter machine are optimized to produce a rectangular balloon with maximum burst pressure. Using the optimized parameters, the soft actuators are laser cut/welded three times sequentially. Next, a dispensing needle is attached to the actuator, allowing it to be inflated. The effect of geometrical parameters on the deflection of the actuator are studied systematically by varying the channel width and length. Finally, the performance of the actuator is characterized using an optical camera and a fluid dispenser. Conventional fabrication methods of soft pneumatic actuators based on silicone molding are time consuming (several hours). They also result in strong but bulky actuators, which limits the actuator&#8217;s applications. Moreover, microfabrication of thin pneumatic actuators is both time-consuming and expensive. The proposed manufacturing method in the current work resolves these issues by introducing a fast, simple, and cost-effective fabrication method of ultrathin pneumatic actuators.

This protocol describes a method for rapid manufacturing of soft pneumatic actuators and robots with a thin form factor. The fabrication method starts with lamination of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) sheets followed by laser cutting/welding of a two-dimensional pattern to form actuators and robots.

快速制造薄软气动执行器和机器人

This protocol describes a method for rapid manufacturing of soft pneumatic actuators and robots with an ultrathin form factor using a heat press and a ...

Fabrication of Carbon-Based Ionic Electromechanically Active Soft Actuators

Ionic electromechanically active capacitive laminates are a type of smart material that move in response to electrical stimulation. Due to the soft, compliant and biomimetic nature of this deformation, actuators made of the laminate have received increasing interest in soft robotics and (bio)medical applications. However, methods to easily fabricate the active material in large (even industrial) quantities and with a high batch-to-batch and within-batch repeatability are needed to transfer the knowledge from laboratory to industry. This protocol describes a simple, industrially scalable and reproducible method for the fabrication of ionic carbon-based electromechanically active capacitive laminates and the preparation of actuators made thereof. The inclusion of a passive and chemically inert (insoluble) middle layer (e.g., a textile-reinforced polymer network or microporous Teflon) distinguishes the method from others. The protocol is divided into five steps: membrane preparation, electrode preparation, current collector attachment, cutting and shaping, and actuation. Following the protocol results in an active material that can, for example, compliantly grasp and hold a randomly shaped object as demonstrated in the article.

This article describes a fast and simple manufacturing process of ionic electromechanically active composite materials for actuators in biomedical, biomimetic and soft robotics applications. The key fabrication steps, their importance for the actuators&#39; final properties, and some of the main characterization techniques are described in detail.

碳基离子机电活性软执行器的制造

Ionic electromechanically active capacitive laminates are a type of smart material that move in response to electrical stimulation. Due to the soft, ...

Fabrication and Implementation of a Reference-Free Traction Force Microscopy Platform

Quantifying cell-induced material deformation provides useful information concerning how cells sense and respond to the physical properties of their microenvironment. While many approaches exist for measuring cell-induced material strain, here we provide a methodology for monitoring strain with sub-micron resolution in a reference-free manner. Using a two-photon activated photolithographic patterning process, we demonstrate how to generate mechanically and bio-actively tunable synthetic substrates containing embedded arrays of fluorescent fiducial markers to easily measure three-dimensional (3D) material deformation profiles in response to surface tractions. Using these substrates, cell tension profiles can be mapped using a single 3D image stack of a cell of interest. Our goal with this methodology is to make traction force microscopy a more accessible and easier to implement tool for researchers studying cellular mechanotransduction processes, especially newcomers to the field.

This protocol provides instructions for implementing multiphoton lithography to fabricate three-dimensional arrays of fluorescent fiducial markers embedded in poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels for use as reference-free, traction force microscopy platforms. Using these instructions, measurement of 3D material strain and calculation of cellular tractions is simplified to promote high-throughput traction force measurements.

无参考牵引力显微镜平台的制造和实施

Quantifying cell-induced material deformation provides useful information concerning how cells sense and respond to the physical properties of their ...

Using a Microfluidics Device for Mechanical Stimulation and High Resolution Imaging of C. elegans

One central goal of mechanobiology is to understand the reciprocal effect of mechanical stress on proteins and cells. Despite its importance, the influence of mechanical stress on cellular function is still poorly understood. In part, this knowledge gap exists because few tools enable simultaneous deformation of tissue and cells, imaging of cellular activity in live animals, and efficient restriction of motility in otherwise highly mobile model organisms, such as the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The small size of C. elegans makes them an excellent match to microfluidics-based research devices, and solutions for immobilization have been presented using microfluidic devices. Although these devices allow for high-resolution imaging, the animal is fully encased in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and glass, limiting physical access for delivery of mechanical force or electrophysiological recordings. Recently, we created a device that integrates pneumatic actuators with a trapping design that is compatible with high-resolution fluorescence microscopy. The actuation channel is separated from the worm-trapping channel by a thin PDMS diaphragm. This diaphragm is deflected into the side of a worm by applying pressure from an external source. The device can target individual mechanosensitive neurons. The activation of these neurons is imaged at high-resolution with genetically-encoded calcium indicators. This article presents the general method using C. elegans strains expressing calcium-sensitive activity indicator (GCaMP6s) in their touch receptor neurons (TRNs). The method, however, is not limited to TRNs nor to calcium sensors as a probe, but can be expanded to other mechanically-sensitive cells or sensors.

Using a Microfluidics Device for Mechanical Stimulation and High Resolution Imaging of C. elegans

New tools for mechanobiology research are needed to understand how mechanical stress activates biochemical pathways and elicits biological responses. Here, we showcase a new method for selective mechanical stimulation of immobilized animals with a microfluidic trap allowing high-resolution imaging of cellular responses.

利用微流体装置进行机械刺激和高分辨率成像的研究C.线虫

One central goal of mechanobiology is to understand the reciprocal effect of mechanical stress on proteins and cells. Despite its importance, the ...

神经科学

Microfabrication of Implantable Optics Integrated in a Microstructured Imaging Window for Advanced In Vivo Imaging

In the context of biomaterials and drug testing in animal models, this study presents a streamlined protocol for fabricating a novel implantable integrated imaging window. The micro-device comprises a sophisticated system of microlenses coupled with micro-scaffolds specifically designed for in vivo quantification of the immune response using advanced non-linear excitation microscopy. The protocol is based on two-photon polymerization (2PP) of the biocompatible photoresist SZ2080, which enables the fabrication of micro-scaffolds and micro-lenses in a continuous sequence to enhance manufacturing efficiency and precision. To further improve speed, accuracy, and structural integrity, a hybrid optics fabrication approach was implemented, involving the 2PP of the microlens outer shell followed by UV bulk crosslinking of the inner core. This innovative technique optimizes the optical properties of the microlenses while streamlining the production process. The resulting micro-device demonstrates high reproducibility and mechanical stability, making it an effective method for prototyping microscale optical systems for a range of biomedical applications.

This protocol describes the fabrication of an implantable integrated imaging window using 3D laser printing. The window consists of a system of microlenses coupled with micro-scaffolds. The method involves two-photon polymerization (2PP) of the biocompatible photoresist SZ2080 in a continuous sequence, optimizing manufacturing efficiency and alignment between the different components.

自由形式的光驱动器 - 制作和开动控制在微观尺度

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微机械动态细胞培养平台

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摘要

探索更多视频

此视频中的章节

微机械动态细胞培养平台

有机硅为基础的介电弹性体致动器的制作工艺

光诱导的宏观振荡运动液晶网络的制备

液晶弹性体致动器的微流控制备

斜腔软气动网络驱动器的研制

快速制造薄软气动执行器和机器人

碳基离子机电活性软执行器的制造

无参考牵引力显微镜平台的制造和实施

利用微流体装置进行机械刺激和高分辨率成像的研究C.线虫

集成在微结构成像窗口中的植入式光学元件的微纳加工，用于先进的 体内 成像

集成在微结构成像窗口中的植入式光学元件的微纳加工，用于先进的体内成像