The dynamic optical micro-environment

: an open platform for the closed-loop control of microscale collectives using light

Abstract

The of engineering microscopic collectives such as bacteria, mammalian cells and microrobots has implications from the design of novel biomedical therapies to the development of functional materials. Controlling microagent behaviour is challenging however, due to the limited capabilities of individual agents, lack of straightforward programmability and difficulties in visualisation. To address this, the Dynamic Optical Micro-Environment (DOME) has been developed as a low-cost, modular and open-source device for closed-loop light-based control of microagent systems at both an individual and collective level. The DOME offers an accessible means to study complex multiagent phenomena and implement new behaviours with desired functionalities. This work explores the state-of-the-art regarding light-based microagent control and the current hardware
landscape for optical control systems. The DOME is presented, with details of the low-cost fabrication process and characterisation of key specifications. Control over microsystem behaviour using light is demonstrated through the implementation of building blocks towards swarm control in a system of light-responsive Volvox agents. Future steps explored include the engineering of
cellular collectives, such as biofilms and migrating tissue, as well as the potential for integration of machine learning techniques for the discovery of de novo swarm behaviours.

Date of Award	27 Sept 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bristol
Supervisor	Thomas E Gorochowski (Supervisor) & Sabine Hauert (Supervisor)