Arduino Tissue Incubator

What is the project?

We designed a acrylic enclosure that would enable visible light to pass through while also insulating heat within experimental requirements. We utilized heating mesh directed by a micro controller to generate heat and a secondary convection system tied to a temperature sensor for regulation. Validation of even heating was achieved through 3 temperature sensors covering different regions of the enclosure. The solution was successful in that is was able to through a 72 hour experimental span, regulate internal environmental conditions optimal for tissue growth.

What problem does it solve?

Our client needs an apparatus that can hold a 96 well plate and heat it relatively quickly to an ideal experimental temperature while maintaining a constant heat distribution across the entire enclosure.

What constraints does it have?

1. 96 well plate, must be able to be used on a microscope platform (dimensions: L 127.71mm, H 14.1mm, W 85.43mm)
2. 300mm/300mm/100mm (Max size)
3. Allow clear illumination and imaging of 120 x 90 mm well plate
4. Less than 5kg
5. Must maintain constant temperature +/- 0.2 degrees C at any point among the wells
6. Clear view on top and bottom
7.  <100w power draw

What are the objectives of the project?

1. Steady-state temperature regulation for 96 well plate
2. Apparatus that can heat from cold start
3. Reach Temperature in less than 10 min
4. Sustain Temperature for 1 hour+
5. 37 Celsius, +-.2 Celsius (at any point among the wells)