Hardware

SmartBox for Ideal Pesticide Concentration Measurement

Introduction

Pesticide concentration can be determined by measuring the colour intensity of the green light from the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). However, accurate measurements of the light intensity require a dark environment and a precise blue light source.

In a bid to provide an ideal environment for pesticide concentration measurement.SmartBox is designed.

Design Features of the Box

SmartBox consists of three major components:

• A. a black box with an orange filter
• B. an LED light source
• C. cover for placing samples

Features of the first component are introduced in this section

Figure 1: Smartbox features

SmartBox is a black box. The black color aims to minimize the reflection of light inside the box that may affect the experimental results.

Figure 2: Smartbox design overview

Besides, when the box is in use. There will be no extra openings for external light to enter the box, also for the good of the validity and accuracy of the data collected.

SmartBox, a foldable black Box, needs to be capable of various laboratory samples, specifically 1.5 ml Eppendorf tubes and 15 ml tubes. Thus, our team made use of 3D printing technology and produced adapters with a smaller opening. Thus, SmartBox can accommodate the two tubes with different sizes by applying or removing the plate. The adapter can be easily swapped out, making it versatile for different laboratory needs.

Moreover, SmartBox has a foldable structure. The box can be folded flat, minimizing space during transport and storage.

The Foldable Black Box is a practical and adaptable solution for laboratory environments. Its innovative design and functionality cater to the needs of researchers requiring efficient sample management. By integrating a foldable structure with an adjustable opening, this hardware not only optimizes space but also enhances the usability of different tube types.

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UV LED Integration for GFP Imaging

Introduction

The SmartBox incorporates a UV LED light source at the bottom, designed to facilitate the visualization of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) expression in samples. To enhance the imaging quality, a specialized orange filter is used, allowing for optimal contrast and clarity in capturing GFP fluorescence.

UV LED Light

Positioning: The UV LED is strategically placed at the bottom of the black box to provide even illumination across the samples. The specific wavelength of the UV light is chosen to effectively excite GFP, ensuring bright and valid fluorescence for the precise measurement of RGB value.

Orange Filter

Purpose: The orange filter is essential for filtering out excess light and enhancing the visibility of GFP fluorescence. It allows only the emitted green light from the excited GFP to pass through, improving image quality.

Compatibility: The filter can be changed for the flexibility to capture images of different colors, such as RFP and normal light.

Imaging Process

1. Sample Preparation (details to be discussed in the ‘software’ part): Place the sample tubes containing GFP-expressing organisms within the black box.
2. Illumination: Activate the UV LED light to excite the GFP.
3. Photography: Use a camera or smartphone equipped with the orange filter to capture images of the fluorescence.
4. Analysis: Analyze the images for GFP expression levels via the software.

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Advantages of the SmartBox

1. Cost-Effective Design: The use of readily available materials(acrylic boards) and 3D printing technology keeps production costs low, making it an affordable solution for laboratories and research institutions.
2. Portability: The foldable structure allows for easy transport and storage, making it ideal for field research and situations where space is limited.
3. Versatility: With its adjustable opening and integrated UV LED light, the box accommodates various tube sizes and facilitates the visualization of GFP expression, enhancing its utility across multiple applications in biological research.
4. High compatibility: In the future, under various types of other pesticides concentration may be detected by not only GFP, but also RFP etc. Thus, different LED colors may be needed for better observation or image analysis by the software.SmartBox can easily adapt to the circumstances simply by changing the color of the LED light source.