Introduction

PyMFCAD is a Python package for the rapid design and prototyping of 3D-printed microfluidic devices. It is designed for researchers, engineers, and anyone interested in building complex microfluidic systems using modern additive manufacturing techniques.

This guide is a step-by-step learning path. It focuses on concepts and workflows first, with the API reference as a separate resource.

Key Features

  • Component-based design: Build devices from reusable, modular parts (components and subcomponents), making it easy to share and standardize designs.
  • Flexible geometry: Create a wide range of shapes, including cubes, spheres, rounded cubes, text extrusions, and advanced structures like polychannels and Bézier curves.
  • Pixel/layer precision: All designs are specified in pixels and layers, matching the resolution of high-end 3D printers for maximum fidelity.
  • Automatic routing: Tools for connecting ports and features with fully automatic or manual routing, supporting complex device layouts.
  • Rendering and visualization: Preview your designs interactively before printing, and export to standard 3D formats for further processing or slicing.
  • Slicing support: Convert your designs into printer-ready slices (currently optimized for custom 3D printers).
  • Extensible: Import community or custom component libraries, and create your own reusable features.

Typical Workflow

  1. Define components: Create basic building blocks using shapes and labels.
  2. Assemble devices: Combine components and subcomponents into complete devices, positioning and transforming as needed.
  3. Add connections: Use routing tools to connect ports and features.
  4. Preview and render: Visualize your device in 3D, check for errors, and export models.
  5. Slice and print: Generate printer-ready files for fabrication.

Mental Model (30‑second version)

  • Component: a reusable block made of bulk material (solid) and negative features/voids (channels).
  • Device: a printable assembly tied to a printer’s resolution.
  • Labels: named colors used to group geometry and settings for visualization purposes.
  • Ports + routing: define connections between components.
  • Slicer: turns the device into a JSON print job + image stack.

You will build up this model gradually throughout the tutorial.

What you will learn

By the end of Part 14, you will be able to:

  • Design and preview components
  • Assemble devices and connect ports
  • Configure slicing settings
  • Generate print files and inspect outputs
  • Apply regional settings (membranes, secondary dose, etc.)

Who Should Use PyMFCAD?

PyMFCAD is ideal for:

  • Researchers developing new microfluidic devices
  • Engineers prototyping lab-on-a-chip systems
  • Educators teaching microfluidics or digital fabrication
  • Anyone interested in rapid, reproducible microfluidic design

Whether you are new to microfluidics or an experienced designer, PyMFCAD provides a powerful, scriptable environment to accelerate your work.

Next: Part 2: Installation