Advanced Microfluidics (AMF) offers microfluidic solutions from laboratory proof-of-concept to commercial series production. And that’s what makes us different, we help and offer components that can adapt to all stages of our client’s project.
Let’s take our RVM as an example, our Industrial Microfluidic Rotary Valve that is available in a trio of meticulously designed components: the P201-O, P211-O, and P221-O rotary valves. Each component is tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients at different stages of their project’s lifecycle—from initial experiments to full-scale OEM deployment.
The field of microfluidics has revolutionized a lot of sectors including biotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and environmental monitoring, by enabling precise management and manipulation of fluids and liquids on a microscopic scale. However, transitioning these innovations from the bench to the production floor poses significant challenges. AMF addresses these challenges through a strategic line of products, ensuring good scalability and integration.
Microfluidic industrialization or OEM microfluidics refers to the process of scaling microfluidic technologies from laboratory research to full-scale commercial production. This field has become a cornerstone of innovation, especially in sectors like healthcare, where it enables the development of advanced diagnostics, and pharmaceuticals, where it plays a crucial role in drug delivery systems and personalized medicine. Additionally, it is vital in environmental monitoring and food safety applications, where microfluidics facilitate the rapid analysis of contaminants and pathogens.
Despite its potential, the journey from a prototype to an industrially viable product involves numerous challenges. These include:
Scalability: Translating a laboratory-scale process to mass production often requires significant redesigns to enable efficienct manufacturing. What works in a controlled small-scale experiment may not directly translate to large. production volumes due to issues such as fluid dynamics changes and material properties.
Cost Efficiency: Initial microfluidic setups can be costly, as they often use specialized materials and require precise, complex chip fabrication. Industrialization aims to reduce costs through economies of scale and process optimization to make technologies affordable and accessible.
Integration and Standardization: For microfluidic devices to be commercially successful, they must integrate existing industrial processes and comply by regulatory standards. This includes ensuring that devices can operate under real-world conditions and meet quality assurance criteria.
Customization vs. Mass Production: A balance must be found between the custom needs of specific applications and the general requirements of mass production. This involves developing flexible systems that can be easily adapted to different uses without extensive retooling.
Our devices are not only components but integrated solutions designed to address the specific stages of microfluidic industrialization.
At AMF, we understand that the journey from a novel idea to a fully operational product is multifaceted and unique for each innovation. To meet these diverse needs, we’ve developed a specialized lineup of OEM microfluidic rotary valves instrument: the P201-O, P211-O, and P221-O. Each devices is designed to support different stages of development and industrialization, ensuring that no matter where you are in your project lifecycle, you have the right tools to succeed.
The P201-O microfluidic rotary valve is the cornerstone of microfluidic project development, supporting innovators from the proof of concept phase through prototyping to the first and second commercial version. This valve is designed to offer a comprehensive solution that accommodates the evolving needs of all-stage development with precision and reliability.
Complete PCB control: The P201-O comes equipped with a comprehensive PCB that includes all necessary controls and interfaces (Serial communication on USB mini, I2C on PicoBlade™, RS232 on DB9 (RS485 on DB9 upon request)). This feature provides users maximum flexibility to experiment with various configurations and settings, ensuring a thorough exploration of the application’s potential.
Driver and encoder system: The P201-O is uniquely equipped with both a driver and an encoder, making it an all-encompassing solution for precise microfluidic management. The driver allows the motor to position the rotor accurately, facilitating the engagement of fluidic sequences. The encoder provides real-time feedback on the precise positions of both the rotor and the stator, ensuring optimal alignment and performance during complex sequencing and automation tasks. This dual capability allows the P201-O to execute highly detailed and controlled operations necessary for advanced research and development.
Adaptability: Designed to be highly adaptable, the P201-O can handle a variety of liquids and conditions, making it suitable for diverse applications across biotech, pharmaceuticals, and diagnostic fields.
Ease of use: The P201-O is designed for user accessibility. It supports various programming languages, including LabVIEW and Python. The available tools enable easy programming and modification of fluidic sequences, making the system highly adaptable to a wide range of experimental needs.
Advantages of Using P201-O:
Flexibility in Application: From initial experiments to small and large-scale commercial production, the P201-O transitions smoothly, reducing the need for multiple equipment changes and thereby streamlining project timelines.
Cost-Efficient Scaling: By providing extensive control features and robust data feedback mechanisms, the P201-O minimizes the typical costs associated with transitioning between development phases, making it an economical choice for startups and established companies alike.
Ease of Use and Implementation: The P201-O’s comprehensive management suite simplifies the complexity often associated with microfluidic applications, enabling researchers and developers to focus on innovation without being hindered by technical restraints.
Use-Case:
For a startup developing a novel lab-on-a-chip device or an R&D group within a large. institution developing a novel product, the P201-O allows for iterative testing and refinement of fluidic paths and reaction zones within the chip. This capability is crucial when preparing for initial market trials, ensuring that the device meets stringent quality and performance standards.
As the foundational tool in Advanced Microfluidics SA’s product line, the P201-O is instrumental in reducing the barriers to entry for new microfluidic applications and ensuring a smooth transition to market readiness. Its built-in versatility and control make it an ideal choice for those looking to efficiently navigate the early stages of device development.
The P211-O microfluidic rotary valve is designed to seamlessly transition projects from advanced prototyping through both the first and second commercial versions. This valve is ideal for applications that require a balance between sophisticated functionality, versatility and operational efficiency, making it a pivotal tool in the scale-up process.
Streamlined PCB: The P211-O features a simplified PCB that retains essential functionalities (communication type upon request (Serial, I2C, RS232, RS485, …) while reducing overall costs. This streamlined approach makes it an ideal choice for prototypes and small batch production, where cost efficiency is as critical as functionality.
Advanced control capabilities: The P211-O, while similar in functionality to the P201-O, differs in that it does not include a driver. It is equipped by an advanced encoder system that continuously monitors the exact positions of the stator and rotor. This feature is vital for ensuring that the valve operates within the precise parameters needed during scaling up operations. The encoder’s feedback is critical for implementing detailed procedural commands and maintaining the integrity of the process.
Enhanced durability: Built to handle more rigorous and repetitive operations typical at this stage, the P211-O is designed with durability in mind. It supports longer operational cycles and more frequent use without compromising performance.
Cost-effective scalability: Specifically tailored for mid to large-scale production, the P211-O optimizes the necessary technological components to offer a high-performing yet cost-effective solution for growing businesses.
Advantages of Using P211-O:
Versatility in scaling: The P211-O is designed to support not only advanced prototyping but also the rigorous demands of first and second commercial production. It serves as a bridge product that enhances process stability and repeatability, which are key for meeting commercial standards.
Reduction in transition complexity: With the ability to support multiple stages of the market entry process, the P211-O reduces the need for multiple transitions between different devices. This continuity saves time and resources, allowing businesses to focus on innovation and market expansion.
Custom integration: Tailored configurations are available to integrate the P211-O into various production lines, ensuring that it meets specific industrial requirements without extensive modifications.
A company aiming to rapidly expand its biotechnological product line would find the P211-O invaluable. After successful prototyping using the P201-O, transitioning to the P211-O allows for efficient scale-up to meet increased market demand while maintaining the high precision required for biotechnological products.
The P211-O is not just a product but a comprehensive scaling tool. It is designed to ensure that transitioning from prototype to full commercial production is as smooth and efficient as possible, making it an ideal choice for businesses focused on rapid growth and market leadership in the microfluidic field.
The P221-O from Advanced Microfluidics SA is specifically engineered for second commercial version production, where high-volume throughput, increased margins and integration for industrial systems are paramount. This model is the pinnacle of efficiency and customization, designed for businesses that require robust, high-performance microfluidic solutions at competitive costs.
Encoder only system: The P221-O is streamlined for high-quantity commercial production, equipped solely with an encoder to monitor the positions of the stator and rotor. This configuration emphasizes essential functionalities to efficiently manage large-scale manufacturing processes. The absence of a driver means that the P221-O relies on external industrial management systems to manage the motor’s operations, which must be programmed to handle the specific production sequences. This setup is designed to integrate advanced sophisticated automation systems in OEM environments, where precision and reliability at scale are paramount.
Industrial-grade integration: The P221-O’s design eliminates the onboard driver, which allows for direct integration into OEM management systems. This model requires advanced programming and control by industrial engineers, enabling highly specialized customization to fit complex production lines.
High efficiency and throughput: Tailored for mass production, the P221-O maximizes operational efficiency. Its design is geared towards minimizing downtime and maximizing output, essential factors for industries operating at a large scale.
Advantages of Using P221-O:
Cost competitiveness in high-volume settings: The P221-O becomes economically viable at very high production quantity where the scale can justify the initial setup complexity and investment. It offers a significant per-unit cost advantage in mass production scenarios.
Customizable for specific industrial needs: The flexibility of the P221-O to integrate among existing OEM setups makes it an ideal choice for manufacturers looking to upgrade or expand their production capabilities without the need for extensive retrofitting.
Designed for rigorous use: Built to withstand the demands of continuous, high-capacity operation, the P221-O is robust and reliable, crafted to deliver consistent performance under the rigorous conditions of commercial manufacturing environments.
Strategic Use-Case:
A In Vitro diagnostic (IVD) company needs to ramp up production of a newly approved diagnostic test, the P221-O offers the precision and scalability required. Its ability to be programmed for intricate fluid handling tasks allows for seamless integration into the company’s production line, ensuring high throughput and quality consistency.
As the most advanced offering in the AMF product line, the P221-O is indispensable for clients who need a microfluidic component that not only meets the high demands of commercial production but also drives down costs and enhances operational efficiency at scale. This model is best suited for clients who are ready to commit to large-scale output and seek a partnership that will deliver unparalleled industrial performance.
At AMF, we understand that no two projects are the same. Each step in the development of microfluidic devices demands unique considerations and solutions. That’s why we offer tailored, flexible options throughout the device lifecycle—from initial concept to full-scale production. Our Industrial Microfluidic Rotary Valve models P201-O, P211-O, and P221-O are designed not just to meet but to adapt to the diverse needs of our clients:
Design: Distribution, switch, on / off, combined distribution & switch
Materials: PCTFE / PTFE, PEEK / PTFE, PCTFE / UHMW-PE, …
Number of channels: from 2 to 24 to up to 64
Channel diameter: from 250 µm to 4000 µm – The conjunction of small internal channel size with the unique AMF geometry allows it to reach extremely low internal volumes which can be as low as 600 nL (for a 4 ports switch valves) due to their exceptionally small 0.25 mm diameter channels).
Motor type: Fast or low power
Interface & Connectors: RS485, I2C, …
Software
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Our team of experts is available to assist in configuring each model to best fit your project requirements, providing insights and support as you scale from prototype to commercial volume. But we also offer strategic advice on optimizing your production cycles to maximize efficiency and minimize costs. Our experience in microfluidic industrialization allows us to provide tailored solutions that not only meet but exceed industry standards.
We also offer comprehensive integration services to ensure that our products perfectly fit into your existing production processes. This includes on-site assessments, system integration planning, and full technical support during the installation and commissioning phases.
At AMF, we go beyond simply supplying high-quality microfluidic devices; we become partners in your success.
Are you ready to take your microfluidic project to the next level? Whether you’re at the concept stage, ready to prototype, or scaling up to full production, AMF is here to support and streamline your journey.
Fill out the form below to tell us about your project needs. Our team of experts is ready to collaborate for you to tailor solutions that enhance your device’s development and ensure successful industrialization. Whether you need detailed product information, customization options, or guidance through your project’s lifecycle, we’re here to help.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make your project a success. Fill out the form now, and let’s create something amazing together.
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