Multi-batch micro-self-assembly via controlled capillary forces

Advances in silicon processing and microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS) have made possible the production of very large numbers of very small components at very low cost in massively parallel batches. Assembly, in contrast, remains a mostly serial (i. e. , non-batch) technique. We argue that massively parallel self-assembly of microparts will be a crucial enabling technology for future complex microsystems. As a specific approach, we present a technique for assembly of multiple batches of microparts based on capillary forces and controlled modulation of surface hydrophobicity. We derive a simplified model that gives rise to geometric algorithms for predicting assembly forces and for guiding the design optimization of self-assembling microparts. Promising initial results from theory and experiments and challenging open problems are presented to lay a foundation for general models and algorithms for self-assembly.

Authors

• Xiaorong Xiong
• Yael Hanein
• Weihua Wang
• Daniel T. Schwartz
• Karl-Friedrich Böhringer

Keywords

• Force control
• Assembly
• Self-assembly
• Silicon
• Micromechanical devices
• Batch production systems
• Costs
• Optimized production technology
• Solid modeling
• Predictive models
• Binding Sites
• Frequency Domain
• Surface Energy
• Local Minima
• Surface Tension
• Finite Element Method
• Interfacial Tension
• Global Minimum
• Simplified Representation
• Functional Overlap
• Overlap Area
• Substrate Binding Site
• Self-assembly Process
• Self-assembled Monolayers
• Substrate Sites
• Hydrophobic Sites
• Unoriented
• Substrate Plane
• Sensor Feedback
• Hydrophobic Binding Site
• Contact Angle