We developed a new system for random separation of a single microorganism, such as a living cell and a microbe, in the microfluidic device under the microscope by integrating the laser-trapping force and dielectrophoretic (DEP) force. An arbitrarily selected single microbe could be isolated in a microchannel, despite the presence of a large number of microbes in solution. Once the target microbe is trapped at the focal point of the laser, we can easily realize exclusion of excess microbes around the target by controlling the electric field, while keeping the target trapped by the laser at the focal point. To realize an efficient separation system, we proposed a new separation cell and produced it by microfabrication. Flow speed in the microchannel is adjusted and balanced to realize high-speed and high-purity extraction of the target. Some preliminary experiments are conducted to show the effectiveness. The target is trapped by the laser, transported, and is taken out from the extraction port. Total separation time is less than 20 s. Our method is extremely useful in the pure cultivation of the cell and will be a promising method for biologists in screening useful microbes.

No abstract

No abstract

A thermoelectric power generation system is developed with a flexible structure. Its micro fabrication has the advantage of miniaturization and integration. Thermoelectric materials are fabricated by using micro fabrication technology. The developed structure is composed of a polyimide sheet as a substrate, thermoelectric materials deposited on the substrate, a heat absorber sheet and a heat sink sheet. The flexibility of this structure depends on the wavy form of the substrate and slits in the substrate, and the heat absorber and heat sink sheets. Because of the characteristic evaluation, open-circuit voltage of 16 µV K −1 per thermocouple was obtained. In addition, the thermopile generator does not break till a bending radius of curvature of 9 mm is reached. A prospect for practical application of the thermoelectric power generator for a curved surface was confirmed.

No abstract