After completing our laboratory work, we engaged in discussions with some workers, hoping that they would use our solution for detection. Workers informed us that our current workflow is overly complex and challenging to operate, particularly for those without a background in biology. Furthermore, the majority of factories lack standardized laboratories capable of conducting such procedures.

We aimed to design a hardware device for detecting the concentration of p-cresol in factories. We consulted with the workers to understand their expectations for this hardware device. Workers expressed a desire for simplicity, affordability, and visual feedback.

Based on these requirements, we developed this device, primarily composed of:

The design of this device was shaped by the need for ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and providing visual feedback to users.

The reaction vessel is designed with two ports, one long and one short. The long black port is connected to the air tube, while the short red port is exposed to the atmosphere. Below the short port, there is a small tube that aids in the dissolution of air into the reaction liquid.

The time control chip regulates the duration of the reaction process in the device. It ensures precise timing for the various steps involved in the detection process.

This code, written in Python, simulates a time controller with four buttons: time plus, time minus, time reset, and switch. The default time is 20 minutes:

When we initially introduced this device to workers for the first time, we encountered the following issues and received some suggestions:

Based on consumer feedback, we can consider improving the hardware design to address these issues and improve the reliability and suitability of the device.

Based on feedback from the first version of the hardware, we have made improvements to address the issues identified.

To address the first issue, we have added a buffer bottle to prevent accidental damage to the device due to misconnections. For a detailed explanation of how this works, please refer to the video demonstration:

This improvement significantly enhances the device's durability and user-friendliness while reducing the risk of damage due to misoperation.

To address the second and third points, we have added a plastic casing to the device. Below is a description of the casing design:

The casing primarily features four testing ports, an empty buffer bottle compartment, a slot for storing a 5ml syringe, and a time control area.

This casing serves to protect the device's internal components, reducing the risk of damage from liquid splashes or accidental detachment of wires during operation. It enhances the device's robustness and durability.

To address the fourth point, we have redesigned the device to support portable power sources. It primarily includes:

This modification allows for greater mobility and versatility in the device's usage, especially in locations where suitable power outlets may be limited.

This is a video demonstration of the hardware presentation process. The results indicate that our hardware device can effectively detect p-cresol in the air.

The successful demonstration of our hardware device's capability to detect p-cresol in the air is a significant achievement, and it underscores its practicality and value in real-world applications.

This user manual serves as a vital resource to ensure the effective and safe utilization of our p-cresol detection device. It empowers users with comprehensive guidance on device operation, maintenance, and safety, ensuring accurate results while adhering to iGEM's rigorous hardware standards. The manual is a testament to our commitment to user success, providing clarity and support throughout the p-cresol detection process.

Please note that these cost estimates are provided in a more cost-effective range. Actual costs may vary depending on suppliers, material quality, and regional factors. It's advisable to obtain real quotes from suppliers for precise cost information.

Due to biosafety concerns, we believe that conducting validation experiments with this hardware in real factories at this stage poses a risk of biological leakage. Therefore, we have opted to perform these operations within a fume hood for added containment and safety measures.

This precautionary approach ensures that any potential biohazardous materials are safely contained and mitigates the risk of unintended biological release into the environment during testing.

Our hardware device embodies the principles of open-source and replicability. We firmly believe in the openness of science, and as part of our ongoing commitment, we plan to openly share the design blueprints, manufacturing files, and software source code of our hardware. This will enable other research teams to freely review, modify, and enhance our design to address a diverse range of application needs. Our vision includes actively encouraging and welcoming participation from the community. We aim to create online forums and establish a supportive community that will serve as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, fostering continuous evolution and innovation in hardware. We eagerly anticipate the wider adoption of our open-source hardware by more teams, collectively driving the frontiers of scientific research. For inquiries and collaborations, please contact us at 1746921258@qq.com.