Real-time mapping of small forces with micrometer resolution is essential for studying soft and biological matter. However, existing techniques are slow, limited in spatial sampling or require non-planar substrates that can perturb cell behavior. Here we present silicon sensor arrays for rapid surface force mapping that operate using the elasto-optically induced wavelength shift in thin polymer-cladded optical ring resonators. Using a nano-indenter, we demonstrate that the sensor array reaches a force resolution down to 12 µN and shows a linear response. We present both a five-ring linear array and a 10×5 two-dimensional array at 15 µm pitch, and demonstrate the feasibility of localization and force mapping of a spherical nanoindentation tip. Combined measurement of forces by nano-indenter and the optical ring resonator sensor presents a methodology for calibrating this type of photonic force sensor. Moreover, good correspondence between measurements and finite element simulations provides evidence for the proposed operation mechanism. The shown combination of biocompatible claddings, strong opto-mechanical coupling, and foundry-ready photonics, presents a route towards scalable, real-time force mapping for soft-matter metrology, tactile interfaces, and in vitro mechanobiology.

Osteochondral tissue engineering remains a significant challenge due to the complex biochemical and mechanical gradients between cartilage and subchondral bone. In this study, we present the development of a 3D-printed, multi-material magnetic hydrogel scaffold with tunable stiffness. To achieve this, we formulated a gelatin-alginate hydrogel matrix with various levels of embedded iron oxide magnetic particles (MPs) to create controlled hard-soft interfacial regions. The optimal composition (i.e . , 2.5% gelatin, 5% alginate, and 10% (w/v) MPs) demonstrated magnetorheological behavior, including increased effective Young’s modulus from 159 to 172 kPa and decreased viscosity from 175 to 145 kPa·s under a static magnetic field. Later, we evaluated scaffold printability through filament collapse, fusion, and porous scaffold tests, identifying a Gel:Alg ratio of 1:2 as optimal for structural fidelity. Mechanical and rheological characterizations confirmed that MPs significantly enhanced stiffness and responsiveness to magnetic fields. A checkered scaffold design enabled the fabrication of alternating hard and soft regions, and a bi-layered scaffold demonstrated improved interfacial adhesion. Micro-computed tomography provided quantitative evidence of magnetic field-induced particle redistribution within the hydrogel, confirming internal reorganization beyond bulk mechanical response. Importantly, in vitro live/dead assays confirmed that scaffold fabrication and magnetic functionality did not adversely affect cell viability. This platform offers a tunable, bioactive, and magneto-responsive scaffold architecture with potential for osteochondral repair or other applications requiring dynamic interface tissue engineering.

Miniaturized optomechanical devices are well-suited for applications in the automotive, aerospace, and biomedical sectors due to their compact size and lightweight design, which make them ideal for measuring small forces [1]. The significant refractive index contrast between the silicon waveguide core and the silicon dioxide cladding in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) structures enables submicron core dimensions. This design supports single-mode propagation at a wavelength of 1.55 µm, with strong optical confinement that allows for sharp bends with radii as small as a few micrometers [2]. Micro-optical-electromechanical systems (MOEMS) offer several advantages over traditional micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), including higher optical sensitivity, simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for use in electromagnetically active environments and ultra-high vacuum conditions [3].