Modular three-level microfluidic architecture for diverse analytical chemistry applications

To address the growing complexity of microfluidic applications, we present a modular architecture that simplifies and unifies integrationof microfluidic devices across analytical chemistry and related fields. The architecture comprises three levels: (1) a microfluidic device (MFD) at the lowest level; (2) specialized module that integrate either the microfluidic device with fluidic interfaces or a microcontroller / auxiliary electronics / interfaces (middle level); and (3) a complete unit, where four modules are stacked on a baseplate for operation via USB 3.0 and under dedicated software control (highest level).