Group 3 – The Microbe Mixers

Team Members

Michaela Baughn, Hugh Brittenham, Kyle Cunningham, Samuel Falzone, Ricardo Martinez, Darryl Mijares, Thierry Momplaisir, Asher Siddiqui

Abstract

The Microbe Mixer, a microbial shaker table, spares no expense in its design. Focusing on the mechanical, electrical and software aspects of the product, the Microbers have greatly improved and optimized the original base design. This table is capable of preforming three separate shaking patterns: linear, orbital, and even double orbital which has been proven to boost cell growth even further in certain cases. To ensure users are getting the most out of the product, optical density and florescent intensity testing was incorporated, and with software improvements the table can adjust the shaking pattern if no cell growth is detected in the samples. Software updates have been made to the table to give the users more customization in their shaking patterns, including choosing a specific orbit length as well as speed, and more flexibility during shaking with mid-shake changes to these values. Slight modifications to the electrical schematics have improved usability, making it possible to detach the UI from the rest of the table to keep the sensitive components out of the harsh environments intended for the samples. Mechanically, the table has obtained an IPX-5 waterproof rating and all its parts have been overhauled with a new robust design specifically intended for easy mass production. Special care has also been taken to ensure the table is highly modular so in the unlikely event of a part failure, the faulty piece can be repaired inexpensively and quickly. The Microbe Mixer is a new gold standard of shaker tables on the market.

Pitch Video

3D Interactive Product Model

The following is an interactive 3D model of the product design. You can view and rotate the product assembly in different orientations and views, including an exploded view to see the various parts that make up the assembly.

Files