Rapid prototyping of microstructures with bell-shaped cross-sections and its application to deformation-based microfluidic valves

Rapid prototyping of microchannels with bell-shaped (as opposed to rectangular) cross-sections (see Figure) is reported. These microchannels are ideal for deformation-based microfluidic valving using piezoelectric vertical actuator arrays in refreshable Braille displays. The fabrication method is based on diffused backlight exposure with a transilluminator and is cost and time efficient.