The Need

Microfluidic and organ-on-chip platforms are gaining importance in drug discovery, toxicity testing, diagnostics, and advanced biological research. However, widespread adoption remains constrained by the difficulty of connecting microscale devices to conventional fluid delivery hardware. Existing connection approaches often suffer from large footprints, high dead volumes, complex assembly requirements, limited substrate compatibility, or excessive cost. The industry needs a simple, scalable, and user-friendly interconnection solution that enables reliable fluid handling while supporting high-density device architectures and streamlined system integration.

The Technology

OSU engineers have developed a novel chip-to-world interconnection approach that simplifies the interface between microfluidic devices and external fluid delivery systems. The platform utilizes readily available components and a straightforward assembly process to establish reliable fluid communication with minimal disruption to device operation. Designed for broad compatibility across microfluidic formats and materials, the technology provides a practical alternative to conventional connectors while reducing system complexity. Its compact architecture supports next-generation microfluidic platforms that require dense integration, multiplexing, and scalable manufacturing.

Commercial Applications

• Organ-on-chip and microphysiological systems for pharmaceutical development
• Microfluidic diagnostic and analytical testing platforms
• Cell culture, bioprocessing, and life science research tools
• Commercial microfluidic instrumentation and consumables

Benefits/Advantages

• Smaller footprint
• Reduced dead volume
• Broad compatibility
• Simple, low-cost implementation