Considerations and Justifications for Choice
As we dismantled the microscope, a frame is needed for the mounting of the components.
Prototyping Process: Cycle of Test, Critique and Re-Design
V1
Our original idea was to build an aluminium frame from scratch to separate the axes for remote control of the microscope movement.
However, to build a frame entirely from scratch would be time consuming and difficult to do. We eventually decided to use a 3D printer’s frame and mount our microscope parts onto it. The frame we are using is from the Creality Ender 3 3D printer. We kept the motors on the frame to allow change of microscope focus and the x and y axis positions of the slide.
![](https://blogs.ntu.edu.sg/ps9888-2021-g18/files/2021/06/3d-printer-frame.gif)
V2
![](https://blogs.ntu.edu.sg/ps9888-2021-g18/files/2021/06/Screenshot-2021-07-07-at-1.09.43-PM.png)
Identified Issues with Previous Prototype:
- Skeleton frame is customised and has fixed dimensions. Drilling screw holes requires a specialised environment for that particular material.
Modifications Made:
- Replaced part of the original metal skeleton frame with aluminum file
- Added a 3D printed L bracket to avoid having to drill holes through the skeleton frame for mounting of Arduino board and Raspberry Pi screen on frame