The eLoaD platform endows centrifugal microfluidics with on-disc power and communication

Abstract

In this paper we present a comprehensive description of the design, fabrication and operation of an electrified Lab-on-a-Disc (eLoaD) system. The smart platform is developed to extend conventional Lab-on-a-Disc applications with an electronic interface, providing additional flow control and sensing capabilities to centrifugal microfluidics platforms. Wireless power is transferred from a Qi-compliant transmitter to the eLoaD platform during rotation. An Arduino-based microcontroller, a Bluetooth communication module, and an on-board SD-card are integrated into the platform. This generalises the applicability of the eLoaD and its modules for performing a wide range of laboratory unit operations, procedures, or diagnostic assays, all controlled wirelessly during spinning. The lightweight platform is fully reusable and modular in design and construction. An interchangeable and non-disposable application disc is fitted with the necessary sensors and/or actuators for a specific assay or experiment to be performed. A particular advantage is the ability to continuously monitor and interact with LoaD experiments, overcoming the limitations of stroboscopy. We demonstrate the applicability of the platform for two sensing experiments involving optical, electrochemical, and temperature detection, and one actuation experiment involving controlled heating/cooling, and flow control with active valves. The complete electronic designs and example programming codes are extensively documented in the supplementary material for easy adaptation.

Wireless Electrochemical Detection on a Microfluidic Compact Disc (CD) and Evaluation of Redox-Amplification during Flow

“…Rather than establishing electrical contact with the sensors on the disc, recently efforts have been made to develop wireless power and data connections. The first prototypes employing this approach demonstrate that the elimination of the physical interface reduces the electrical noise and increases the life-time of the device [16].…”

The Design of Tympani Thermometer Using Passive Infrared Sensor

“…The program works as a data processor to be sent by IC AtMega 328 microcontroller. The microcontroller [19], [29]- [32] is the brain to process analog data in the form of digital data that will be displayed on the LCD. A buzzer is used to give a sign that the tool starts detecting objects.…”

Evaluating carbon-electrode dielectrophoresis under the ASSURED criteria

“…However, the function generator was still connected through a slip ring. Recently our group has reported the development of an electrified-Lab-on-a-Disc (eLoaD) platform where any kind of electrical function can be supplied on-chip through wireless communication ( 74 , 75 ). Furthermore, the eLoaD system features on-disk power supply modules, which can be operated through battery power as well.…”