Tianhao Zhang

Behavioral modeling and performance evaluation of microelectrofluidics-based PCR systems using SystemC

Composite microsystems that incorporate microelectromechanical and microelectrofluidic devices are emerging as the next generation of system-on-a-chip (SOC). We present a performance comparison between two types of microelectrofluidic systems (MEFS): continuous-flow systems and droplet-based systems. The comparison is based on a specific microelectrofluidic application-a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system. The behavioral modeling, simulation, and performance evaluation are based on a SystemC design environment. The performance comparison includes the system throughput, system-correction capacity, system-processing capacity, and system-design complexity. By using our system-performance evaluation environment, we demonstrated that the droplet-based MEFS provides higher performance, as well as lower design and integration complexity.

A micro-watt metal-insulator-solution-transport (MIST) device for scalable digital bio-microfluidic systems

In this work new data, models, and applications are presented of an ultra-low power, microfluidic device for use in integrated bio-microelectrofluidic systems (Bio-MEFS). The metal-insulator-solution transport (MIST) device is based on the high-speed manipulation of discrete droplets of analytes and reagents under voltage control, and is the MOSFET equivalent for MEFS.

Behavioral modeling of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with statistical performance-variability reduction and sensitivity analysis

An approach to behavioral modeling of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) is presented emphasizing robust design that minimizes the effects of device parametric variability on overall performance. Using a novel application of Taguchi experimental design and statistical process-control methods, statistical performance-variability reduction and parametric sensitivity analysis are studied. Taguchi performance-variability reduction and parametric sensitivity analyses introduce design-for-manufacturing into behavioral modeling. An example is given for the robust behavioral modeling of a microelectromechanical laterally driven electrostatic-comb microresonator. Applications of the behavioral-modeling approach to high-performance design, manufacturing yield optimization, and operational reliability assessment are also given.

Integrated hierarchical design of microelectrofluidic systems using SystemC

This paper describes the role of SystemC in developing an integrated modeling and simulation environment for microelectrofluidic systems (MEFS). Based on the unique modeling and simulation needs for MEFS, we examine suitability of several existing simulation languages. These languages include VHDL/VHDL-AMS, SLAM, Matlab, C/C++, and SystemC. Next, SystemC is justified as a viable candidate for complete MEFS modeling and simulation. The architecture of the environment and the associated functional packages are discussed. Its application is illustrated through the design of a microchemical handling system.

Design of reconfigurable composite microsystems based on hardware/software codesign principles

Composite microsystems that integrate mechanical and fluidic components with electronics are emerging as the next generation of system-on-a-chip. Custom microsystems are expensive, inflexible, and unsuitable for high-volume production. The authors address this problem by leveraging hardware/software codesign principles to design reconfigurable composite microsystems. They partition the system design parameters into nonreconfigurable and reconfigurable categories. In this way, operational flexibility is enhanced and the microsystems are designed for a wider range of application. In addition, the Taguchi robust design method is used to make the system robust, and response surface methodologies are used to explore the widest performance range for the system. A case study is presented for a microvalve, which serves as a representative microelectrofluidic device.

Performance analysis of microelectrofluidic systems using hierarchical modeling and simulation

With the development of increasingly complex microelectrofluidic devices and systems, system-level performance analysis is becoming an important aspect of design. System-level performance analysis is challenging because coupled-energy dynamics link system-level performance with component-level operation, thus necessitating a hierarchical approach to modeling and simulation. This paper presents a hierarchical modeling and simulation method for microelectrofluidic systems, in particular, and composite microsystems, in general. High-level stochastic queueing modeling is combined with low-level nodal modeling to support simulation accuracy with low simulation times. Results are reported for a microchemical handling system. System-level performance analysis is carried out and applied to architectural design optimization.

A Hierarchical Design Platform for Microelectrofluidic Systems (MEFS)

Composite microsystems that incorporate microelectromechanical and microelectrofluidic devices are emerging as the next generation of system-on-a-chip (SOC). Composite microsystems combine microstructures with solid-state electronics to integrate multiple coupled energy domains, e.g., electrical, mechanical, thermal, fluidic, and optical, on an SOC. The combination of microelectronics and microstructures enables the miniaturization and integration of new classes of systems that can be used for environmental sensing, control actuation, electromagnetics, biomedical analyses, agent detection, and precision fluid dispensing. There remain however several roadblocks to rapid and efficient composite system design. Primary among these is the need for modeling, simulation, and design/manufacturing optimization tools.