Overview
During our experimental phase, we have discovered several problems. For instance, errors in human operation are the leading cause of inaccuracy while repeating. In order to tackle these issues, we decided to design a fountain-like model in Tinkercad.
The chief purpose of the model is to perform a fair test on carcinogens in an accurate and efficient way. This is because three technical samples can be repeated per experiment. Also, it can be directly observed under confocal microscopy without nurturing cells in coverslip or dish seed cell as the base is very thin. Thus, reducing the cost.
Our Design
After several build and test phases, we have finalised our prototype. There are three components in our hardware design, from top to bottom: a carefully constructed box, a slope with different angles, and a base.
The box on the top is in the shape of a cylinder, with a diameter of 35.7mm and a height of 6mm. It is separated into three layers: a cup, a lid, and a funnel. In addition, there are three holes in both the cup and lid, thus, the fluid will only flow down when the holes are matched. With a principle similar to a powder jar cover, we want to ensure that the fluid is completely mixed. Moreover, the reaction time stays constant in all three holes as a result.
Simultaneously, we have moderated a slope for the fluid to flow down. Although the fluid is supposed to flow faster on steeper ones, there is a possibility that the fluid will spill out. At the same time, the gradient of the slope will affect the amount of residue on the slope. To find out the most suitable gradients, we have attempted the experiments with different angles of slope, including 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 75°. In the meantime, corresponding stands of different heights are used to support the box. After comparing the results, we have chosen 45 degrees as our apparatus at the end.
The area of the base is 170.94mm*85.47mm, with a height of 40.38mm. The fluid flows down into the three big holes via the tubes and is stored in the base until. This process ensures the homogeneity of the mixtures, and that they are reacted simultaneously.
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