The authors thank Sungwon Lim for intellectual contributions to device and mold design as well as Jambu Jambulingam and Rebecca Grossman-Kahn for creating intravaginal silicone probes using this process. This work is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Vodafone Americas Foundation, and the FDA (2P50FD003793).

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IEEE Technical Applications Conference and Workshops Northcon. , 305&#8211;310, doi:10.1109/NORTHC.1995.485087. , (1995).</li><li>Hilton, P. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Rapid Tooling: Technologies and Industrial Applications., 288, Press: Boca. , (2000).</li><li>Ahn, S. -. H., Montero, M., Odell, D., Roundy, S., Wright, P. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Anisotropic+material+properties+of+fused+deposition+modeling+ABS.">Anisotropic material properties of fused deposition modeling ABS.</a> Rapid Prototyping Journal. 8 (4), 248-257 (2002).</li><li>Cheah, C. M., Tan, L. H., Feng, C., Lee, C. W., Chua, C. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Rapid+investment+casting:+direct+and+indirect+approaches+via+fused+deposition+modelling.">Rapid investment casting: direct and indirect approaches via fused deposition modelling.</a> The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology. 23 (1-2), 1-2 (2004).</li><li>Harris, A., Wild, P., Stopak, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Silicone+Rubber+Substrata:+A+New+Wrinkle+in+the+Study+of+Cell+Locomotion.">Silicone Rubber Substrata: A New Wrinkle in the Study of Cell Locomotion.</a> Science. 208 (4440), (1980).</li><li>Moisan, M., Barbeau, J., Moreau, S., Pelletier, J., Tabrizian, M., Yahia, L. 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(1-2), 226-221 (2001).</li><li>Etemadi, M., Chung, P., Heller, J., Liu, J., Rand, L., Roy, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Towards+BirthAlert+-+A+Clinical+Device+Intended+for+Early+Preterm+Birth+Detection.">Towards BirthAlert - A Clinical Device Intended for Early Preterm Birth Detection.</a> IEEE Trans Biomed Eng. 10, (2013).</li><li>Etemadi, M., Chung, P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Novel+device+to+trend+impedance+and+fluorescence+of+the+cervix+for+preterm+birth+detection.">Novel device to trend impedance and fluorescence of the cervix for preterm birth detection.</a> Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2013, 176&#8211;9, doi:10.1109/EMBC.2013.6609466. , (2013).</li><li>Owen, S. R., Harper, J. F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mechanical,+microscopical+and+fire+retardant+studies+of+ABS+polymers.">Mechanical, microscopical and fire retardant studies of ABS polymers.</a> Polymer Degradation and Stability. 64, 449-455 (1999).</li><li>Cassidy, P. E., Mores, M., Kerwick, D. J., Koeck, D. J., Verschoor, K. L., White, D. F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Chemical+Resistance+of+Geosynthetic+Materials.">Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetic Materials.</a> Geotextiles and Geomembranes. 11, 61-98 (1992).</li><li>Akay, M., Ozden, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+influence+of+residual+stresses+on+the+mechanical+and+thermal+properties+of+injection+moulded+ABS+copolymer.">The influence of residual stresses on the mechanical and thermal properties of injection moulded ABS copolymer.</a> Journal of Materials Science. 30 (13), (1995).</li></ol>

Nessuno degli autori ha interessi finanziari in competizione rispetto al lavoro dettagliato in questo articolo.

Di tutte le operazioni descritte, attenta progettazione dello stampo è il più critico per il successo. Il master stampo deve essere creata come un corpo solido con geometrie esterne pari al dispositivo finale. Queste geometrie dovrebbero essere adattati per tenere conto di qualsiasi ritiro del materiale a causa della elastomero scelto e risoluzione della stampante 3D e tolleranze. Il posizionamento di linee di divisione stampi e fori passanti per aste filettate e viti sono dipendenti l&#39;uno dall&#39;altro. Aggiunta...

Stampaggio ad iniezione di liquido (LIM) (noto anche come stampaggio ad iniezione di reazione) viene spesso usato per fabbricare dispositivi elastomerici di elastomeri termoindurenti, ma elevati costi di attrezzature e macchinari richiede una grande quantità di investimento iniziale di capitale 1. Inoltre, LIM può essere tecnicamente difficile e costoso da implementare nei casi con geometria e requisiti per sovrastampaggio complesso. Come risultato, è tipicamente poco pratico da usare LIM tradizionale in volumi ultra-bassa o con disegni periferica fase iniziale che spesso incorrono revisioni iterativi. La procedura tipica per materiali elastomerici ad iniezione consiste nell&#39;iniettare monomeri liquidi a pressioni di circa 150 psi in uno stampo mediante stampaggio macchine specializzate 2. Le temperature e le pressioni sono controllati per garantire un flusso laminare e impedire all&#39;aria di essere intrappolati nello stampo 3. Le materie prime sono tipicamente sistemi di cura in due parti, come ad esempio la cura di platino silicone, tcappello sono conservati in camere distinte e temperatura controllate prima dell&#39;iniezione. Entrambi i componenti della materia prima vengono pompati in una camera di miscelazione ad alta pressione che alimenta successivamente nella cavità dello stampo. Polimerizzazione è ottenuta grazie alla presenza di un catalizzatore che della temperatura di circa 150-200 ° C 4. Le muffe sono in genere ricavati da acciaio o alluminio con tolleranze precise per creare una buona tenuta intorno separazione bordi 3,5. Purtroppo, questo processo è generalmente più adatto per grandi fabbricazione scala di costi degli utensili stampo alto così come l&#39;esigenza di sistemi di iniezione e di controllo in retroazione specializzati. Per prototipazione rapida di poliuretano (PU) parti, è possibile utilizzare stereolitografia (SLA) per creare un master stampo e produrre un silicone stampo in gomma 6,7. Tuttavia, questa tecnica non è adatto per sovrastampaggio poiché è difficile ottenere un allineamento preciso dei componenti sovrastampati, come il silicone è, perprogettare, non una struttura rigida. Inoltre, la produzione di dispositivi con geometrie complesse, come invaginazioni o sezioni su incavate, è difficile o impossibile. Il requisito per linee di divisione stampi complessi o precisi e sottili elementi rigidi sono il più delle volte, incompatibile con il processo di stampaggio gomma liquida. I processi di prototipazione suddetta produzione su scala o in fase avanzata sono spesso poco pratico per stadio precoce sviluppo di dispositivi medici in cui hanno bisogno di un paio di dispositivi da produrre per proof-of-concept e di fattibilità in studi umani, come spesso accade in laboratorio accademico e start-up ambienti aziendali. La mancanza di alternative, spesso significa che anche lo sviluppo della fase iniziale comporterebbe costi elevati, che richiedono molti sviluppatori di dispositivi per limitare la funzionalità del dispositivo o mettere lo sviluppo in attesa, mentre sono sollevati fondi aggiuntivi. Ciò contribuisce ad un drammatico rallentamento del processo di sviluppo da una grande frazione dei dispositivi medici ri<html> attuazione quaderno di funzioni complesse. E &#39;anche difficile per finanziare lo sviluppo costoso di tali dispositivi in ​​quanto i dati proof-of-concept spesso non è stato ancora stabilito. Abbiamo incontrato questo blocco stradale in un recente progetto all&#39;interno di questo laboratorio, che ha comportato lo sviluppo di una sonda intravaginale silicone con sensori sovrastampati elettrici e ottici che richiedevano una punta a tazza per conformarsi alle geometrie cervicali specificati. Il processo descritto in questo articolo documenta il nostro tentativo di aggirare questo circolo vizioso e raggiungere rapidamente proof-of-concept per i dispositivi medici LIM. La tecnica illustrata in figura 1 scompone il processo LIM in 5 attività principali: (1) stampo di progettazione e di produzione, (2) complesso di stampo (3) miscelazione elastomero, (4) iniezione di elastomero, e (5) elastomero polimerizzazione e sformatura. &quot;width =&quot; pg 600 &quot;/&gt; .. Figura 1 Protocollo Panoramica del protocollo, che prevede: (1 bis) la creazione di uno stampo utilizzando strumenti computer-aided design, (1b) stampa i pezzi stampo 3D, (2) assemblando i pezzi di stampo utilizzando barre filettate e viti, ( 3) miscelare elastomero liquido e caricarlo in una siringa, (4) iniettare l&#39;elastomero liquido nello stampo utilizzando un essiccatore modificato, (5a) indurire l&#39;elastomero in un forno a temperatura controllata, e (5b) sformatura dispositivo dell&#39;elastomero vulcanizzato dal i pezzi stampo. Progettazione di stampi comporta lo sviluppo di un maestro stampo in computer-aided design (CAD) software, la sottrazione del master muffa da un blocco solido e la definizione di linee di divisione stampo. I pezzi dello stampo vengono creati e poi assemblati con viti, barre e dadi con componenti sovrastampati posizionate nella cavità dello stampo. Gomma mixing coinvolge combinando parti A e B delle materie prime e degasaggio per rimuovere eventuali spazi vuoti nel materiale. Successivamente, iniezione elastomero comporta riempimento dovuti a pressione della cavità dello stampo, seguita da indurimento elastomero in un forno a temperatura controllata per assicurare reticolazione chimica delle catene polimeriche. Abbattere il processo di stampaggio ad iniezione in questi passaggi ci permette di rinunciare attrezzature LIM tradizionale a favore di alternative low cost. Ad esempio, invece di lavorazione di uno stampo metallico o colata uno stampo in gomma siliconica da un master stampo, stampi creati dal protocollo descritto in questo manoscritto sono stati creati da acrilonitrile butadiene stirene (ABS) utilizzando una modellazione plastica fusa deposizione (FDM) 3D 8,9 stampante. Rispetto alla costruzione di stampi metallici o muffe SLA, FDM è generalmente un processo economico e più veloce. Abbastanza stampi complessi possono essere stampati rapidamente su una stampante 3D in-house, o buon mercato prodotte da uno del contratto molti printin 3Dg servizi disponibili. Ad esempio, una di otto elementi muffa 3D stampato complesso è stato usato per lanciare la sonda intravaginale dimostrato nella sezione risultati rappresentativi e mostrato nelle figure 14 e 15. Tutte le parti di questo stampo possono essere stampati in circa 1,5 giorni su una stampante 3D in-house. Tempi di consegna per forme più semplici possono essere un paio d&#39;ore. La lunghezza complessiva del tempo necessario al prototipo un dispositivo utilizzando stampanti FDM 3D per creare stampi è simile al tempo necessario per lanciare uno stampo di gomma siliconica e creare un prototipo poliuretano. Tuttavia, utilizzando stampanti FDM 3D per creare stampi consente diverse cose che non possono essere facilmente realizzato utilizzando uno stampo in silicone: (1) molti elastomeri termoindurenti possono essere utilizzati, purché lo stampo 3D-stampata può tollerare temperature di indurimento richiesti, (2) geometrie complesse possono essere creati con l&#39;uso di molti diversi pezzi di stampi e linee di divisione, e (3) l&#39;uso di pezzi di stampi rigidi permette precisa e riproducibilitàBLE allineamento dei componenti sovrastampati all&#39;interno della cavità dello stampo. Invece di utilizzare una macchina tradizionale LIM, che combina la miscelazione, iniezione, e polimerizzazione, è possibile usare un miscelatore da laboratorio per permettere una miscelazione omogenea, essiccatore modificato per iniezione, e un forno a temperatura controllata standard per curare. Il sistema di iniezione è stata creata usando componenti off-the-shelf e prevede l&#39;aggiunta di una linea di alimentazione di pressione positiva in un essiccatore che si connette a una siringa riempita di elastomero mista. Sezione pressurizzazione in migliori essiccatori banco è generalmente controllato da una valvola a tre vie fra le camere, una linea di alimentazione di vuoto, e l&#39;atmosfera. L&#39;essiccatore modificata aggiunge una linea di alimentazione di pressione positiva di alimentazione al retro di uno stantuffo della siringa. Questo consente la creazione di un differenziale di pressione 40-50 psi che è sufficiente per l&#39;iniezione materiale liquido nella cavità dello stampo. Questa tecnica ci ha permesso di produttorice silicone sonde intravaginale con sensori elettrici e ottici sovrastampati per raccogliere proof-of-concept dati per una fase I di sperimentazione clinica. Silicone è stato selezionato per la necessità di inerzia biologica nonché la capacità di sterilizzare con una varietà di metodi 10,11. Inoltre, il dispositivo richiede una geometria a tazza complesso e non convenzionale sulla punta della sonda in cui si trovano i sensori per interfacciarsi con la cervice. Senza l&#39;uso della tecnica descritto, sarebbe stato un processo molto più lunghe e costose per produrre questi dispositivi. Questo adattamento del processo LIM riduce i requisiti di costo e attrezzature se confrontato con il processo di LIM tradizionale, rendendolo pratico per adottare un approccio rapido e iterativo per la progettazione di dispositivi elastomerici.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="1434">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>ABS Model Material</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>P430</td>
			<td>Model Material for uPrint Plus SE (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Soluble Support Material</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>SR-30</td>
			<td>Support Material for uPrint Plus SE (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Underwater Silicone Sealant, 2.8 Oz Tube, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>7327A21</td>
			<td>Silicone RTV for sealing gaps at mold parting lines (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, 1/8&#34; ID, 1/4&#34; OD, 1/16&#34; Wall Thickness, Ultra-chemical-resistant Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5046K11</td>
			<td>Forms runner/sprue adapter between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Male Quick-turn (Luer lock) X 1/8&#34; Tube Barb, Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K123</td>
			<td>Connect runner/sprue between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Staight, Female Quick-turn (Luer lock) X 1/8&#34; Tube Barb, Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K213</td>
			<td>Connect runner/sprue between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cap, Female Quick-turn (Luer lock), Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K315</td>
			<td>Cap to prevent silicone from leaking out of mold after injection (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) 30 - 10:1, Implant Grade</td>
			<td>Applied Silicone Corporation</td>
			<td>PN40029</td>
			<td>Substitute with the elastomer of your choice.&#160; This is the one used for the intravaginal probe (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringes (BD), 1mL Slip-Tip, non-sterile clean, bulk</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-00</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringes (BD), 1mL Slip-Tip, non-sterile clean, bulk</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-04</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe, 20mL, Open Bore, Solid Ring Plunger and Grip</td>
			<td>Qosina Corporation</td>
			<td>C1200</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material.&#160; Open bore is used for very viscous elastomers. (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Needle (BD), Non-sterile Clean with Shields, 18 gauge X 1.5&#34; Lg., Stainless Steel, BD Bulk&#160;</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-76</td>
			<td>Used for removing air column between syringe plunger and elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Plastic Cups, 12 Oz., Clear</td>
			<td>Safeway</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Polyethylene Bag, Open-Top, Flat, 5&#34; Width X 6&#34; Height, 2-MIL Thk.</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>1928T68</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rubber Band, Latex Free, Orange, Size 64, 3-1/2&#34; L X 1/4&#34; W</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>12205T96</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Parafilm Wrap, 4&#34;W</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>EW-06720-40</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe Barrels with Stoppers, Luer Lock, Air Operated,&#160; 50mL</td>
			<td>EWD Solutions</td>
			<td>JEN-JG50A-15</td>
			<td>Smaller syringes can be used if less elastomer is required, but make sure it is compatible with Air Operated Syringe Adapter in injection chamber (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sealant Tape, Pipe Thread, 50&#39;Lg X 1/4&#34; W, .0028&#34; Thk, 0.5 G/CC Specific Gravity&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4591K11</td>
			<td>Teflon Tape for air-tight seals around at threads (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Scalpel Blades, Disposable, No. 22</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>21909-646</td>
			<td>Used for cutting tubing and demolding (Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kimwipes</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>21903-005</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-Propanol, J. T. Baker</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>JT9334-3</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>uPrint Plus SE 3D Printer</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>uPrint Plus SE</td>
			<td>Other 3D printers can be used (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Screw, Cap, Hex Head,&#160; 1/4&#34;-28 , 2-1/2&#34; Lg, 18-8 Stainless Steel</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>92198A115</td>
			<td>Screws used with nuts to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Nut, Hex, 1/4&#34;-28, 7/16&#34; Wd, 7/32&#34; Height, 18-8 Stainless Steel&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>91845A105</td>
			<td>Screws used with nuts to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Stud, Fully Threaded, 1/4&#34;-28, 1&#34; Lg, 18-8 Stainless Steel&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>95412A567</td>
			<td>Threaded-rods can be cut to desired length and are used with nutes to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Planetary Centrifugal Mixer</td>
			<td>THINKY USA Inc.</td>
			<td>ARE-310</td>
			<td>Mixers are strongly recommended for fine mixing and to reduce degassing time, but hand mixing is fine (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Laboratory Weigh Scale</td>
			<td>Mettler-Toledo International Inc.</td>
			<td>EL602</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Desiccant Vacuum Canister, Reusable,&#160; 10-3/4&#34; OD</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>2204K7</td>
			<td>This desiccator is used for degassing the elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Custom 3D-Printed Mixer-to-Cup Adapter</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Modeled in Solidworks CAD and 3D printed (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, Smooth Bore, 1/4&#34; ID, 1/2&#34; OD, 1/8&#34; Wall Thickness, High Purity Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5624K51</td>
			<td>Tubing outside of Desiccator (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, Smooth Bore, 3/8&#34; ID, 5/8&#34; OD, 1/8&#34; Wall Thickness, High Purity Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5624K52</td>
			<td>Tubing to adapt to Air/Vacuum Supply (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Reducer, Straight, Vacuum Barb 3/8&#34; Tube ID X Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; Tube ID, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K188</td>
			<td>Adapt Tubing outside Desiccator to Tubing leading to Air/Vacuum Supply (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Clamp, Hose &#38; Tube, Worm-Drive, for 7/32&#34; to 5/8&#34; OD tube, 5/16&#34; Wd., 316 SS</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5011T141</td>
			<td>Used on tubing to create Air/Vacuum-tight seal at junctions (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Clamp, Hose, Smooth-Band Worm-Drive, for 1/2&#34; to 3/4&#34; OD tube, 3/8&#34; Wd., 304 SS</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5574K13</td>
			<td>Used on tubing to create Air/Vacuum-tight seal at junctions (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Tee, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; Tube ID, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K138</td>
			<td>Tee Junction between Vacuum, Three-way T-valve on Desiccator, and Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Tee, 1/4 NPT Female X Female X Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>50785K222</td>
			<td>Tee Junction between Pressure Gauge, Chamber, and Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Valve, Ball, Straight, T-Handle, 1/4 NPT Female X Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4082T42</td>
			<td>Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; ID Tube X 1/4 NPT Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K132</td>
			<td>Adapter for Three-way L-valve-to-Tubing (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Saw, Hole, Bimetal. 1-3/8&#34; OD, 1-1/2&#34; Cutting Depth</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A25</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arbor, 9/16&#34; to 1-3/16&#34; Saw, 1/4&#34; Hex</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A76</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arbor Adapter for 1-1/4&#34; Thru 6&#34; Dia Hole Saws</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A77</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Straight, Through-Wall, 1/2 NPT Female, Polypropylene</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>36895K141</td>
			<td>Throughwall fittings leading to Pressure/Vacuum Gauges (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Reducing,&#160; Bushing, Hex, 1/2 NPT Male X 1/4 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4429K422</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Reducing, Bushing, Hex, 1/4 NPT Male X 1/8 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4757T91</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; ID Tube X 1/8 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K124</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe Adapters, Air Operated, 30/50mL</td>
			<td>EWD Solutions</td>
			<td>JEN-JG30A-X6</td>
			<td>Air operated syringe adapter on the inside of the Desiccator; must be compatible with syringes used to hold elastomer (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gauge, Dual-Scale Vacuum, 2-1/2&#34; Dial, 1/4 NPT Male, Bottom Connector, 30&#34; Hg-0, Steel Case</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4002K11</td>
			<td>Vacuum Gauge (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gauge, Dual-Scale Vacuum and Compound, 3-1/2&#34; Dial, 1/4 NPT Male, Center Back, 30&#34; Hg-0, 100 PSI, Steel Case</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4004K616</td>
			<td>Pressure Gauge leading to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Oven, Vacuum, Isotemp, Economy&#160;</td>
			<td>Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>280A</td>
			<td>Standard non-vacuum oven can be used (Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Solidworks CAD</td>
			<td>Dassault Syst&#232;mes</td>
			<td>Solidworks Research Subscription</td>
			<td>Other CAD Software can be used for mold master and mold design (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

rapid and low-cost prototyping of medical devices using 3d printed molds for liquid injection molding

Elastomeri biologicamente inerte come il silicone sono materiali favorevoli per la fabbricazione di dispositivi medici, ma formatura e curare questi elastomeri mediante processi di stampaggio ad iniezione di liquido tradizionali possono essere un processo costoso a causa di costi di lavorazione e attrezzature. Come risultato, è stato tradizionalmente poco pratico da usare stampaggio ad iniezione di liquido a basso costo, applicazioni di prototipazione rapida. Abbiamo messo a punto un metodo per la produzione rapida e basso costo di liquidi dispositivi stampati ad iniezione in elastomero, che utilizza le stampanti Fused Deposition modellazione 3D per la progettazione di stampi e un essiccatore modificato come un sistema di iniezione. Bassi costi e tempi di risposta rapidi in questa tecnica abbassare la barriera di progettazione iterativa e prototipazione di dispositivi elastomerici complessi. Inoltre, modelli CAD sviluppati in questo processo possono essere successivamente adattati per la progettazione di stampi in metallo utensili, consentendo una facile transizione a un processo di stampaggio ad iniezione tradizionale. Abbiamo usato questa tecnica per fabbricare intravagsonde inali coinvolgono geometrie complesse, nonché sovrastampaggio su parti metalliche, utilizzando attrezzi di uso corrente in un laboratorio di ricerca accademica. Tuttavia, questa tecnica può essere facilmente adattato per creare dispositivi di iniezione di liquidi sagomati per molte altre applicazioni.

Lo stampo e la sonda intravaginale nelle figure 14 e 15 dimostra risultati rappresentativi della procedura presentata in questo articolo. <img alt="Figura 14" fo:content-width="5in" src="/files/ftp_upload/51745/51745fig14highres.jpg" width="500" /> Figura 14. Mold completamente montato. Stampo per dispositivo sonda intravaginale completamente assemblato. <p class="jove_content" fo:keep-together....

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding at JoVE.com

Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

Abbiamo messo a punto un metodo per basso costo e prototipazione rapida di dispositivi stampati ad iniezione in gomma elastomero liquido utilizzando Fused Deposition stampanti modellazione 3D per la progettazione di stampi e un essiccatore modificato come un sistema di iniezione di liquido.

Rapida e basso costo Prototipazione di dispositivi medici che usano 3D Stampo Stampato per stampaggio ad iniezione Liquid

Biologically inert elastomers such as silicone are favorable materials for medical device fabrication, but forming and curing these elastomers using ...

rapid-low-cost-prototyping-medical-devices-using-3d-printed-molds-for

Research

JoVE Journal

Bioengineering

19.7K Views.  University of California, San Francisco.  Abbiamo messo a punto un metodo per basso costo e prototipazione rapida di dispositivi stampati ad iniezione in gomma elastomero liquido utilizzando Fused Deposition stampanti modellazione 3D per la progettazione di stampi e un essiccatore modificato come un sistema di iniezione di liquido. 

Video: Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

Low-Cost Cryo-Light Microscopy Stage Fabrication for Correlated Light/Electron Microscopy

The coupling of cryo-light microscopy (cryo-LM) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) poses a number of advantages for understanding cellular 
dynamics and ultrastructure. First, cells can be imaged in a near native environment for both techniques. Second, due to the vitrification process, samples are
 preserved by rapid physical immobilization rather than slow chemical fixation. Third, imaging the same sample with both cryo-LM and cryo-EM provides correlation of
 data from a single cell, rather than a comparison of "representative samples". While these benefits are well known from prior studies, the widespread use of correlative 
 cryo-LM and cryo-EM remains limited due to the expense and complexity of buying or building a suitable cryogenic light microscopy stage. Here we demonstrate the 
 assembly, and use of an inexpensive cryogenic stage that can be fabricated in any lab for less than $40 with parts found at local hardware and grocery stores. This 
 cryo-LM stage is designed for use with reflected light microscopes that are fitted with long working distance air objectives. For correlative cryo-LM and cryo-EM 
 studies, we adapt the use of carbon coated standard 3-mm cryo-EM grids as specimen supports. After adsorbing the sample to the grid, previously established protocols 
 for vitrifying the sample and transferring/handling the grid are followed to permit multi-technique imaging. As a result, this setup allows any laboratory with a 
 reflected light microscope to have access to direct correlative imaging of frozen hydrated samples.

We demonstrate the fabrication of a low-cost cryogenic stage designed to fit most reflected light microscopes. This lab-built cryogenic stage enables efficient and reliable correlative imaging between cryo-light and cryo-electron microscopy.

Low-Cost Cryo-Stage Light fabbricazione microscopia per Luce correlate / Microscopia Elettronica

The coupling of cryo-light microscopy (cryo-LM) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) poses a number of advantages for understanding cellular 
dynamics ...

Ricerca

Bioingegneria

High Throughput Microfluidic Rapid and Low Cost Prototyping Packaging Methods

In this work, 3 different packaging and assembly techniques are presented. They can be classified into two categories: one-time use and reusable packaging techniques.
The one-time use packaging technique employs UV-based and temperature curing epoxies to connect microtubes to access holes, wire-bonding for integrated circuit connections, and silver epoxy for electrical connections. This method is based on a robust assembly technique that can support relatively high pressure close to 1 psi and does not need any support to strengthen the microfluidic architecture.
Reusable packaging techniques consist of PDMS-based microtube interconnectors and anisotropic adhesive films for electrical connections. These devices are more sensitive and fragile. Consequently, Plexiglas support is added to the microfluidic structure to improve the electrical contact when anisotropic adhesive films are used, and also to strengthen the microfluidic architecture. In addition, a micromanipulator is needed to maintain tubes while using a thin PDMS layer to connect them to the access holes. Different PDMS layer thicknesses, ranging from 0.45-3 mm, are tested to compare the best adherence versus injection rates. Applied injection rates are varied from 50-300 &#956;l/hr for 0.45-3 mm PDMS layers, respectively. These techniques are mainly applicable for low-pressure applications. However, they can be extended for high-pressure ones through plasma-oxygen process to permanently seal the PDMS to glass substrates. The main advantage of this technique, besides the fact that it is reusable, consists of keeping the device observable when the microchannel length is very short (in the range of 3 mm or lower).

In this article we describe different techniques for microfluidic rapid prototyping platforms. The proposed techniques are based on ultraviolet (UV) sensitive and temperature curing epoxies, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based tubing, wire-bonding, and anisotropic adhesive films. The assembling procedures presented are developed for both one-time use devices as well as reusable microfluidic systems.

High Throughput Microfluidic rapido ed economico prototipazione metodi a basso Packaging

In this work, 3 different packaging and assembly techniques are presented. They can be classified into two categories: one-time use and reusable packaging ...

Using Adhesive Patterning to Construct 3D Paper Microfluidic Devices

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct both planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic devices. By spraying an aerosol adhesive through a metal stencil, the overall amount of adhesive used in assembling paper microfluidic devices can be significantly reduced. We show on a simple 4-layer planar paper microfluidic device that the optimal adhesive application technique and device construction style depends heavily on desired performance characteristics. By moderately increasing the overall area of a device, it is possible to dramatically decrease the wicking time and increase device success rates while also reducing the amount of adhesive required to keep the device together. Such adhesive application also causes the adhesive to form semi-permanent bonds instead of permanent bonds between paper layers, enabling single-use devices to be non-destructively disassembled after use. Nonplanar 3D origami devices also benefit from the semi-permanent bonds during folding, as it reduces the likelihood that unrelated faces may accidently stick together. Like planar devices, nonplanar structures see reduced wicking times with patterned adhesive application vs uniformly applied adhesive.

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct 3D paper microfluidic devices. This method of adhesive application forms semi-permanent bonds between layers, enabling single-use devices to be non-destructively disassembled after use and to ease folding complex nonplanar structures.

Utilizzando adesivo Patterning per costruire dispositivi microfluidici di carta 3D

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct both planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic devices. By spraying an aerosol ...

High-throughput Identification of Bacteria Repellent Polymers for Medical Devices

Medical devices are often associated with hospital-acquired infections, which place enormous strain on patients and the healthcare system as well as contributing to antimicrobial resistance. One possible avenue for the reduction of device-associated infections is the identification of bacteria-repellent polymer coatings for these devices, which would prevent bacterial binding at the initial attachment step. A method for the identification of such repellent polymers, based on the parallel screening of hundreds of polymers using a microarray, is described here. This high-throughput method resulted in the identification of a range of promising polymers that resisted binding of various clinically relevant bacterial species individually and also as multi-species communities. One polymer, PA13 (poly(methylmethacrylate-co-dimethylacrylamide)), demonstrated significant reduction in attachment of a number of hospital isolates when coated onto two commercially available central venous catheters. The method described could be applied to identify polymers for a wide range of applications in which modification of bacterial attachment is important.

A high-throughput microarray method for the identification of polymers which reduce bacterial surface binding on medical devices is described.

High-throughput identificazione di batteri Polimeri repellente per dispositivi medici

Medical devices are often associated with hospital-acquired infections, which place enormous strain on patients and the healthcare system as well as ...

Automated Robotic Liquid Handling Assembly of Modular DNA Devices

Recent advances in modular DNA assembly techniques have enabled synthetic biologists to test significantly more of the available &#34;design space&#34; represented by &#34;devices&#34; created as combinations of individual genetic components. However, manual assembly of such large numbers of devices is time-intensive, error-prone, and costly. The increasing sophistication and scale of synthetic biology research necessitates an efficient, reproducible way to accommodate large-scale, complex, and high throughput device construction.
Here, a DNA assembly protocol using the Type-IIS restriction endonuclease based Modular Cloning (MoClo) technique is automated on two liquid-handling robotic platforms. Automated liquid-handling robots require careful, often times tedious optimization of pipetting parameters for liquids of different viscosities (e.g. enzymes, DNA, water, buffers), as well as explicit programming to ensure correct aspiration and dispensing of DNA parts and reagents. This makes manual script writing for complex assemblies just as problematic as manual DNA assembly, and necessitates a software tool that can automate script generation. To this end, we have developed a web-based software tool, http://mocloassembly.com, for generating combinatorial DNA device libraries from basic DNA parts uploaded as Genbank files. We provide access to the tool, and an export file from our liquid handler software which includes optimized liquid classes, labware parameters, and deck layout. All DNA parts used are available through Addgene, and their digital maps can be accessed via the Boston University BDC ICE Registry. Together, these elements provide a foundation for other organizations to automate modular cloning experiments and similar protocols.
The automated DNA assembly workflow presented here enables the repeatable, automated, high-throughput production of DNA devices, and reduces the risk of human error arising from repetitive manual pipetting. Sequencing data show the automated DNA assembly reactions generated from this workflow are ~95% correct and require as little as 4% as much hands-on time, compared to manual reaction preparation.

Here, an automated workflow to perform modular DNA &#34;device&#34; assembly using a modular cloning DNA assembly method on liquid-handling robots is presented. The protocol uses an intuitive software tool for generating liquid handler picklists for combinatorial DNA device library generation, which we demonstrate using two liquid handling platforms.

Automatizzato robot Liquid Handling Assembly di dispositivi modulari del DNA

Recent advances in modular DNA assembly techniques have enabled synthetic biologists to test significantly more of the available &#34;design space&#34; ...

Synthesis of Biocompatible Liquid Crystal Elastomer Foams as Cell Scaffolds for 3D Spatial Cell Cultures

Here, we present a step-by-step preparation of a 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffold. These scaffolds were prepared by cross-linking star block co-polymers featuring cholesterol units as side-chain pendant groups, resulting in smectic-A (SmA) liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). Foam-like scaffolds, prepared using metal templates, feature interconnected microchannels, making them suitable as 3D cell culture scaffolds. The combined properties of the regular structure of the metal foam and of the elastomer result in a 3D cell scaffold that promotes not only higher cell proliferation compared to conventional porous templated films, but also better management of mass transport (i.e., nutrients, gases, waste, etc.). The nature of the metal template allows for the easy manipulation of foam shapes (i.e., rolls or films) and for the preparation of scaffolds of different pore sizes for different cell studies while preserving the interconnected porous nature of the template. The etching process does not affect the chemistry of the elastomers, preserving their biocompatible and biodegradable nature. We show that these smectic LCEs, when grown for extensive time periods, enable the study of clinically relevant and complex tissue constructs while promoting the growth and proliferation of cells.

This study presents a methodology to prepare 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffolds based on biocompatible side-chain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). Confocal microscopy experiments show that foam-like LCEs allow for cell attachment, proliferation, and the spontaneous alignment of C2C12s myoblasts.

Sintesi di biocompatibili a cristalli liquidi in elastomero Schiume come impalcature cellulari per 3D spaziali colture cellulari

Here, we present a step-by-step preparation of a 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffold. These scaffolds were prepared by cross-linking star block ...

Fabrication of Custom Agarose Wells for Cell Seeding and Tissue Ring Self-assembly Using 3D-Printed Molds

Engineered tissues are being used clinically for tissue repair and replacement, and are being developed as tools for drug screening and human disease modeling. Self-assembled tissues offer advantages over scaffold-based tissue engineering, such as enhanced matrix deposition, strength, and function. However, there are few available methods for fabricating 3D tissues without seeding cells on or within a supporting scaffold. Previously, we developed a system for fabricating self-assembled tissue rings by seeding cells into non-adhesive agarose wells. A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) negative was first cast in a machined polycarbonate mold, and then agarose was gelled in the PDMS negative to create ring-shaped cell seeding wells. However, the versatility of this approach was limited by the resolution of the tools available for machining the polycarbonate mold. Here, we demonstrate that 3D-printed plastic can be used as an alternative to machined polycarbonate for fabricating PDMS negatives. The 3D-printed mold and revised mold design is simpler to use, inexpensive to produce, and requires significantly less agarose and PDMS per cell seeding well. We have demonstrated that the resulting agarose wells can be used to create self-assembled tissue rings with customized diameters from a variety of different cell types. Rings can then be used for mechanical, functional, and histological analysis, or for fabricating larger and more complex tubular tissues.

This protocol describes a platform for fabricating self-assembled tissue rings in variable sizes using a customized 3D-printed plastic mold. PDMS negatives are cured in the 3D-printed mold; then agarose is cast in the cured PDMS negatives. Cells are seeded into the resulting agarose wells where they aggregate into tissue rings.

Fabbricazione di pozzi di agarosio personalizzato per la semina delle cellule e tessuto anello auto-assemblaggio utilizzando stampi 3D-stampato

Engineered tissues are being used clinically for tissue repair and replacement, and are being developed as tools for drug screening and human disease ...

Design of an Open-Source, Low-Cost Bioink and Food Melt Extrusion 3D Printer

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an increasingly popular manufacturing technique that allows highly complex objects to be fabricated with no retooling costs. This increasing popularity is partly driven by falling barriers to entry such as system set-up costs and ease of operation. The following protocol presents the design and construction of an Additive Manufacturing Melt Extrusion (ADDME) 3D printer for the fabrication of custom parts and components. ADDME has been designed with a combination of 3D-printed, laser-cut, and online-sourced components. The protocol is arranged into easy-to-follow sections, with detailed diagrams and parts lists under the headings of framing, y-axis and bed, x-axis, extrusion, electronics, and software. The performance of ADDME is evaluated through extrusion testing and 3D printing of complex objects using viscous cream, chocolate, and Pluronic F-127 (a model for bioinks). The results indicate that ADDME is a capable platform for the fabrication of materials and constructs for use in a wide range of industries. The combination of detailed diagrams and video content facilitates access to low-cost, easy-to-operate equipment for individuals interested in 3D printing of complex objects from a wide range of materials.

The aim of this work is to design and construct a reservoir-based melt extrusion three-dimensional printer made from open-source and low-cost components for applications in the biomedical and food printing industries.

Progettazione di una stampante 3D Open-Source, a basso costo per l'estrusione di bioink e di fusione alimentare

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an increasingly popular manufacturing technique that allows highly complex objects to be fabricated with no retooling ...

Rapid Fabrication of Custom Microfluidic Devices for Research and Educational Applications

Microfluidic devices allow for the manipulation of fluids, particles, cells, micro-sized organs or organisms in channels ranging from the nano to submillimeter scales. A rapid increase in the use of this technology in the biological sciences has prompted a need for methods that are accessible to a wide range of research groups. Current fabrication standards, such as PDMS bonding, require expensive and time consuming lithographic and bonding techniques. A viable alternative is the use of equipment and materials that are easily affordable, require minimal expertise and allow for the rapid iteration of designs. In this work we describe a protocol for designing and producing PET-laminates (PETLs), microfluidic devices that are inexpensive, easy to fabricate, and consume significantly less time to generate than other approaches to microfluidics technology. They consist of thermally bonded film sheets, in which channels and other features are defined using a craft cutter. PETLs solve field-specific technical challenges while dramatically reducing obstacles to adoption. This approach facilitates the accessibility of microfluidics devices in both research and educational settings, providing a reliable platform for new methods of inquiry.

Here we present a protocol to design and fabricate custom microfluidic devices with minimal financial and time investment. The aim is to facilitate the adoption of microfluidic technologies in biomedical research laboratories and educational settings.

Rapida fabbricazione di dispositivi microfluidici personalizzati per applicazioni di ricerca e didattiche

Microfluidic devices allow for the manipulation of fluids, particles, cells, micro-sized organs or organisms in channels ranging from the nano to ...

Low-Cost, Volume-Controlled Dipstick Urinalysis for Home-Testing

Dipstick urinalysis provides quick and affordable estimations of multiple physiological conditions but requires good technique and training to use accurately. Manual performance of dipstick urinalysis relies on good human color vision, proper lighting control, and error-prone, time-sensitive comparisons to chart colors. By automating the key steps in the dipstick urinalysis test, potential sources of error can be eliminated, allowing self-testing at home. We describe the steps necessary to create a customizable device to perform automated urinalysis testing in any environment. The device is cheap to manufacture and simple to assemble. We describe the key steps involved in customizing it for the dipstick of choice and for customizing a mobile phone app to analyze the results. We demonstrate its use to perform urinalysis and discuss the critical measurements and fabrication steps necessary to ensure robust operation. We then compare the proposed method to the dip-and-wipe method, the gold standard technique for dipstick urinalysis.

Dipstick urinalysis is a quick and affordable method of assessing one&#8217;s personal state of health. We present a method to perform accurate, low-cost dipstick urinalysis that removes the primary sources of error associated with traditional dip-and-wipe protocols and is simple enough to be performed by lay users at home.