Modeling and Simulations for Magnetic Manipulation of Micro Objects with a Visual Control System

Separation and harvesting techniques of microfluidic objects are widely studied in recent years. This paper presents modeling and simulation studies for a visual control system for the collection and harvesting of the microfluidic objects via non-contact magnetic manipulation techniques. In order to transport microfluidic objects, a small cylindrical magnet is used as a microrobot. Helmholtz coils are used for rotating the robot, which then translates due to hydrodynamic interaction forces with the wall. A visual control system navigates the microswimmer by manipulating the rotating magnetic field so that the microswimmer can transport the objects by dragging into a predetermined place. The rotation of the microswimmer is the key factor for moving the agent. The low pressure enables the microswimmer to transport microfluidic objects with the help of the control system that determines a trajectory and moves the swimmer accordingly. Further studies are necessary to demonstrate that microswimmer can be used in various fields such as biology, medicine, and chemistry.