Modeling of Fluidic Self-Assembly for Integration of Silicon Components on Plastic

We present a finite element model for the fluidic self-assembly of microfabricated silicon components onto plastic substrates. The model encompasses both the surface energy minimization and hydrodynamic drag minimization of the microparts as they assemble at prescribed binding sites on the plastic substrate. The model is used to determine the trajectory of microcomponents as they self-assemble, and to understand the interactions between the fluid dynamics and the capillary forces acting on the components to increase the assembly yield.