An Open Platform for High‐Resolution Light‐Based Control of Microscopic Collectives

Abstract

Engineering microscopic collectives of cells or microrobots is challenging due to the often limited capabilities of the individual agents, the inability to reliably program their motion and local interactions, and difficulties visualizing their behaviors. Herein, a low‐cost, modular, and open‐source Dynamic Optical MicroEnvironment (DOME) is presented with the ability to augment microagent capabilities, and drive collective behaviors using light. The DOME offers an accessible means to study complex multicellular phenomena and implement de‐novo microswarms with desired functionalities. An interactive preprint version of the article can be found at: https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.164191998.84940186.

Keywords

• closed-loop control
• light-based control
• microcollectives
• open platform
• swarming