Less repetitive manual work
SoftFabrix aims to reduce the number of fabrication operations that require direct researcher attention.
Concept under development
Automated fabrication of PDMS microfluidic chips
SoftFabrix is a compact laboratory-machine concept designed to automate repetitive steps in mould-based PDMS chip production—from casting and degassing to curing, demoulding, cutting and punching.
The concept is currently being shaped through early prototype work and feedback from potential users.
Capabilities and specifications have not been validated.
Concept illustration Final design, architecture and specifications may differ.
User-supplied mould Configured workflow Fabricated PDMS chips
The fabrication challenge
PDMS chip fabrication involves repeated manual intervention
Producing PDMS microfluidic devices can require repeated preparation, casting, degassing, curing, demoulding, cutting and punching. Each operation may be straightforward on its own, but repeated batches consume researcher attention and interrupt other laboratory work.
- Researchers must return to the process at multiple stages.
- Repeated batches compete with experimental and analytical work.
- Execution may vary between operators or production runs.
- Multiple interventions make unattended operation difficult.
- Prepare PDMS
- Cast onto the mould
- Degas
- Cure
- Demould
- Cut
- Punch ports
Intended workflow
One configured process, from mould to fabricated PDMS chips
The SoftFabrix concept brings several fabrication operations into one compact laboratory system. Select a step to explore the intended sequence. Exact implementation and operating ranges will be determined through prototype development and user feedback.
Conceptual machine layout Step 01 of 07
Explanatory layout only. It does not represent a final mechanical architecture or validated subsystem design.
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The user places the mould into the intended loading area and selects the required fabrication settings.
Mould or chip: Mould positioned for the configured run.
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The concept is intended to dispense or cast prepared PDMS onto the user-provided mould.
Mould or chip: Mould receives a controlled layer of PDMS.
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The intended workflow removes trapped air from the cast PDMS before curing.
Mould or chip: Uncured PDMS remains on the mould while bubbles are removed.
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Controlled heating is intended to cure the PDMS as part of the configured machine workflow.
Mould or chip: The PDMS solidifies while retaining the moulded channel geometry.
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The cured PDMS is separated from the mould before downstream cutting and punching.
Mould or chip: A cured PDMS layer is released from the mould.
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The concept aims to define the chip outline and create the required inlet and outlet openings.
Mould or chip: Individual chips are shaped and prepared for the next laboratory step.
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Completed fabrication pieces are transferred to an output area for collection by the user.
Mould or chip: Fabricated PDMS chips are ready for inspection and subsequent processing.
Plasma bonding is outside the initial prototype scope and may be explored in a later product generation.
Potential benefits
Designed around the needs of repeated PDMS fabrication
These outcomes are design objectives for the concept, not validated performance claims.
More consistent processing
Configured settings and automated handling have the potential to support more repeatable workflows between batches.
Unattended multi-step operation
The concept is intended to progress through multiple operations without intervention at every stage, potentially supporting overnight runs.
More time for research
Reducing routine fabrication work could allow researchers to focus on experiments, analysis and device development.
Product concept
You provide the process inputs. SoftFabrix performs the configured workflow.
The user provides
- A mould
- PDMS and required consumables
- Desired production settings
- Cutting and punching requirements
SoftFabrix performs
- The configured fabrication sequence
- Processing through the intended stages
- Handling between automated operations
The user receives
- Fabricated PDMS chips
- Pieces prepared for inspection
- Chips ready for the next laboratory step
- Bonding remains a separate operation
Supported moulds, PDMS formulations, dimensions and process ranges have not yet been defined. Feedback from potential users will help establish these requirements.
Early concept and prototype stage
Shaping SoftFabrix with laboratory users
SoftFabrix specifications and compatibility have not yet been validated. Before fixing detailed engineering requirements, the project is seeking input from laboratories that regularly produce PDMS microfluidic devices.
Feedback will help prioritise the workflows, materials, mould formats and operating features that would make the system genuinely useful.
Target users
Could SoftFabrix be relevant to your laboratory?
The concept is focused on laboratories that use mould-based PDMS fabrication and produce repeated devices.
- Microfluidics research groups
- Repeated PDMS production laboratories
- Biotechnology R&D teams
- Pharmaceutical research teams
- Educational and prototyping facilities
- Industrial microfluidics laboratories
SoftFabrix may be relevant if your laboratory:
- Uses mould-based PDMS fabrication.
- Produces repeated batches of similar devices.
- Spends significant researcher time on fabrication.
- Wants to explore multi-step or unattended processing.
- Is willing to share workflow requirements or future prototype feedback.
Pilot programme
Register interest in the SoftFabrix pilot
The SoftFabrix pilot is currently an interest and feedback programme. Registering allows us to learn about your fabrication workflow and contact you about future research, prototype development or testing opportunities.
- 01You may be contacted to discuss your current workflow.
- 02You may be invited to provide feedback on proposed features.
- 03You may be considered for future prototype testing.
- 04Registration does not create a purchase commitment.
Timing, location, prototype-access arrangements and participation terms have not yet been fixed. These details will be shared before any testing commitment is requested.
Pilot interest
Tell us about your laboratory workflow
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We may contact you to learn more about your laboratory workflow. If you requested updates, check your inbox to confirm your subscription.
Return to the product overview → Frequently asked questions
What is known at this concept stage
What is SoftFabrix?
SoftFabrix is an early laboratory-machine concept intended to automate repetitive operations in mould-based PDMS microfluidic chip fabrication.
Is SoftFabrix commercially available?
No. The project is currently at an early concept and prototype stage.
Can laboratories use their own moulds?
The concept is based on user-provided moulds. Supported mould materials, dimensions and other compatibility requirements have not yet been defined.
Which PDMS formulations will be supported?
Compatibility has not yet been established. Information from potential users will help determine which formulations should be prioritised.
Does the initial concept include plasma bonding?
No. Bonding is outside the initial prototype scope, although it may be considered for a later product generation.
What does joining the pilot mean?
It currently means registering interest and potentially sharing feedback. It does not create a purchase commitment or guarantee access to a prototype.
Who should register?
Laboratories and research teams that use mould-based PDMS fabrication and are willing to discuss their workflow requirements are encouraged to register.
How will submitted information be used?
Information will be used to respond to enquiries, understand potential interest and improve the product concept. Product updates will only be sent when optional consent has been provided.
Help shape automated PDMS fabrication
Tell us which fabrication operations consume the most time and which capabilities would make an automated system useful to your laboratory.