The objective of this project is to design and produce an interchangeable rotational device to accommodate biologic samples of varying size, shape, quantity, rotational direction, and environmental requirements.
Sponsor
PSU Medina Lab
Team Members
John Burns | Jasmine Ferrence | Brendan Knouse | Yihao Lin | Luke Vaughters | David Ziegler | | | | | |
Project Poster
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Project Video
Project Summary
Project Summary
Overview
The Medina Lab is in need of a slow rotational device to gently agitate biological samples that is better than the one it currently uses. The device should have a large sample capacity and be interchangeable, in order to accommodate samples of different shapes and sizes. The device should also be programmed to rotate at different speeds and come with an optional water bath.
Objectives
– Conceptualize an interchangeable design that can accommodate different sample shapes, sizes, and rotation directions.
– Procure and manufacture parts to produce and deliver a working prototype within the budget.
Approach
– Participated in weekly group meetings with our sponsor for information on developing needs and feedback on progress.
– Visited the Medina Lab for information on their existing deviceās successes and shortcomings.
– Researched commercially available biological lab rotational devices for inspiration.
– Developed and selected concepts for different aspects of the device, including the interchangeability aspect, the sample holders, the water bath, and the stand.
– Created CAD model prototypes for leading concepts in order to better judge feasibility.
– 3D printed prototype paddles, connectors, and spacers.
– Procured commercially available parts for the rotation axle, drivetrain, controller, and stand.
– Programmed the device using a Raspberry Pi board.
– Performed stress tests to understand device limits. The tests indicated that various aspects of the alpha prototype were insufficient for this application, thus calling for a beta prototype. The beta prototype performed much better.
Outcomes
– The Medina Lab will no longer require multiple devices to rotate different sample sizes, saving bench space and the cost of separate devices.
– The Medina Lab now has a way to rotate sample containers of non-standard shapes, adding flexibility to experimental procedures.
– A much larger quantity of samples can now be rotated at one time, greatly reducing the lead time for experiments.
– The Medina Lab will now be able to regulate the speed and direction of sample rotation, improving experimental accuracy and flexibility.
– Should the Medina Lab need to rotate samples through a heated water bath, they are now able to do so without the need to purchase a separate device.