Hardware

The Chrome-Q Light Chamber is a 3D-printed imaging measurement system used to quantify results of nutrient deficiency. For our current project, it is also used to quickly and inexpensively measure relative protein degradation through quantification of the color in chromoprotein expression.

One of the most critical variables in imaging today is the consistency of light. Different wavelengths, intensity, power, wattage, and even angling of lights can affect the result of camera imaging. To this end, the Chrome-Q is designed to control these variables of light. The dimensions and dome shape have been optimized for ideal imaging distance and lighting amount. A series circuit was used in order to disrtibute full and equal voltage to each LED in the Chrome-Q.

First dome information and multiple iterations

As a high school lab, one of the many problems we face in research is the lack of funding and monetary support. Sophisticated equipment is incredibly expensive, and so it is very hard to afford the necessary tools and measurement systems for our research. The Chrome-Q Light Chamber is designed to conquer the issue of the cost of a fluorimeter – instead of visualizing with fluorescence, the project uses chromoproteins, which can then be imaged with the chamber we built, and results can be obtained that way. This technology can be used by other teams and facilities for their research, and the full plan of the design is available below so that any team can build it themselves.

Tools

1. 3D Printer (Build Area of at least 7 x 7 x 8in)
2. Super Glue
3. Sanding tools
4. Non-Reflective Spray Paint(Optional)

1. All the STL files included within the file(5 Pieces).
2. LED Lights(At least 4 LED bulbs)
3. Camera

For best results, print at a slow speed to ensure the best outcome possible and make sure the 3D printer is tuned correctly. Print each of the Parts at any desired infill percentage and layer height. Also, it’s recommended to print with brims so it does not curl when printing. If need be, the SLDPRT versions are included in the file.

1. Transfer all the STL files into preferred slicing software.
2. Change settings accordingly to the printer.
3. Orient the parts where it will create the least amount of support for best results.
4. Convert it into GCODE files.
5. Transfer the GCODE files into preferred printing software.
6. Start Printing. Print 4 copies of Parts 1, 3, 4, and 5. Print 5 copies of Part 2.

7. Carefully remove the prints.
8. Sand any defects and remove support materials on the prints.
9. Test that all parts fit correctly.
10. Lightly sand the connecting surfaces for each piece for the best adhesion.
11. Arrange the 4 prints of Part 1 into a square and glue them.

12. Insert 4 prints of Part 2 onto its designated location and glue them.

13. Connect Part 5 on top of Part 4 and glue them.

14. Repeat Step 13 for 3 more times.

15. Arrange 2 of the 4 Parts side by side and glue them along with the last Part 2 print.

16. Repeat the rest as mentioned in Step 15 and glue them to the Part created in Step 15.

17. Place the Assembly created in Step 16 onto the Assembly created in Step 12 and glue them all together.

18. Insert the 4 prints of Part 3 into the 4 holes of the side of the box and glue them.

19. Insert the LED lights into the holes present in the Part 3 prints. (LED lights: 0.6 Watts, 20mA current; solder into series circuit with 2 9-volt batteries)

20. If needed, spray some non-reflective paint inside the box to seal and block out light, for best results spray several coats.

Dhakar, L. (n.d.). Image Color Picker (Z. A., Ed.). Retrieved October 10, 2017, from http://www.colorcodepicker.com/

Purple color codes. (n.d.). Retrieved October 10, 2017, from http://www.rapidtables.com/web/color/purple-color.htm

RGB Color Gradient Maker. (n.d.). Retrieved October 10, 2017, from http://www.perbang.dk/rgbgradient/

Tamura, K., Shimada, T., Ono, E., Tanaka, Y., Nagatani, A., Higashi, S., . . . Hara-Nishimura, I. (2003, September). Why green fluorescent fusion proteins have not been observed in the vacuoles of higher plants. The Plant Journal, 35(4), 545-555. doi:10.1046/j.1365-313X.2003.01822.x