Projects

Intro: Building Tools for Better Experimenting

Creating tools that enable open-science and improve experimental workflows.

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5. Flow-Meter Addition to Dinoflagellate Sampler

Jamie Pierson’s lab wanted to measure dinoflagellate density in bays and esuaries of Puerto Rico. An earlier project connected up the phytometer, and we needed to measure the flow-rate to calculate the density.

• Inexpensive flow-meter
• Arduino based system

• Built into a portable “tub” for on site use with a battery.

  

  

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4. Pump Monitor for Zebra-fish Circulation

The ARC needs to replace filters before they are too clogged, using pressure as an excellent proxy. The system was an analog pressure-gauge that has to be checked manually. Remote monitoring allows for 24/7 access, and notification, saving time and improving responsiveness.

• IOT based, open-source.
• Designed for the research-aquaculture group (ARC) at IMET.
• Provides a dashboard showing the current and historical data.

• Can send TXT and email alerts.

  

  

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3. Six-Headed Peristaltic Pump

• Designed for biocement experiments as part of an NSF grant:
  • IoT-based control and monitoring.
  • Runs pumps independently or in complex patterns, including reverse flow.
  • Open-source and remotely accessible via browser or lab interface.

  

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2. Freezer Alarm System

• Alarm system for -80°C freezers:
  • Sends text or email alerts during temperature issues.
  • Operates during power outages or internet loss.
  • Open-source, adaptable, and no subscription fee, offering a cost-effective alternative to commercial solutions.

  

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1. Spectrophotometer Data Logger

• Custom-built data logger for Shimadzu UV 1601 spectrophotometer:
  • Captures “% transmission” values for biomass.
  • Uploads data to a cloud database, plots in real time, and allows for direct analysis or publication-ready outputs.
  • Open-source and tailored to speed up experiments, especially where time-sensitive accuracy is critical.