Open-source 3-D Platform for Low-cost Scientific Instrument Ecosystem
| Type | |
|---|---|
| Authors | Joshua M. Pearce |
| Status | Designed Modelled Prototyped Verified |
| Years | 2016 |
| Made | Yes |
| Replicated | Yes |
| Cost | USD 499 |
The combination of open-source software and hardware provide technically feasible methods to create low-cost, highly-customized scientific research equipment. Open-source 3-D printers have proven useful for fabricating scientific tools. Here the capabilities of an open-source 3-D printer are expanded to become a highly-flexible scientific platform. An automated low-cost 3-D motion control platform is presented having the capacity to perform scientific applications including: i) 3-D printing of scientific hardware, ii) laboratory auto-stirring, measuring and probing, iii) automated fluid handling and iv) shaking and mixing. The open-source 3-D platform not only facilities routine research while radically reducing the cost, but it also inspires the creation of a diverse array of custom instruments that can be shared and replicated digitally throughout the world to drive down the cost of research and education further.
- This project derived from: MOST Delta RepRap and the MOST Athena RepRap
- Bill of materials https://osf.io/5kev4/
- OpenSCAD code: https://osf.io/v2pwa/
- Open Source Software: Franklin
Keywords
[edit | edit source]3-D printing, 3-D platform, fluid handling, open source hardware, laboratory equipment
BOM
[edit | edit source]- Full Bill of Materials https://osf.io/5kev4/
Assembly
[edit | edit source]- Follow basic build instructions for MOST Delta RepRap and the MOST Athena RepRap and then fashion the Athena Mobile Tool Effector and Athena Fixed Tool Mount
Use
[edit | edit source]- Use Franklin directly or through scripting to do whatever experiment you want.
- Use as a free and open-source automated 3-D microscope
See also
[edit | edit source]| Authors | |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-3.0 |
| Organizations | Michigan_Tech's_Open_Sustainability_Technology_Lab |
| Cite as | J.M.Pearce (2016–2025). "Open-source 3-D Platform for Low-cost Scientific Instrument Ecosystem". Appropedia. Retrieved June 6, 2026. |
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