Challenge:
Advanced Liquid Logic had developed digital microfluidics, an innovative and efficient method of working with and analyzing very small amounts of liquid. They had created a breadboard version of a benchtop device, and needed to develop and design a commercially viable unit based upon already-defined mechanical components. This first product needed to solve several significant mechanical problems, differentiate Advanced Liquid Logic in the market and begin to establish a brand language for future products.

Innovative Thinking:

• A significant challenge was keeping the instrument light-tight while in operating mode. Forma developed a sealing system to prevent light penetration around the edges, as well as from the cord penetrations in the rear of the unit. We accomplished all this while ensuring that the unit would have adequate ventilation to prevent overheating

• We developed a form for the instrument that echoed shape elements of Advanced Liquid Logic’s corporate logo, thus establishing a product language that is unified with the company’s overall marketing communications.

• The unique shape of the instrument makes it stand out among other instruments on a crowded lab bench.

Results:
Our design of Advanced Liquid Logic’s instrument has generated significant excitement both within the company and among potential investment partners as Advanced Liquid Logic moves forward in its quest to commercialize their technology.