HardwareX最新文献

{"title":"Design and construction of a small embeddable nuclear magnetic resonance sensor utilizing 3D-printed components","authors":"Floriberto Díaz-Díaz ,&nbsp;Prisciliano Felipe de Jesús Cano-Barrita","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00678","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00678","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper presents the design and construction of a cost-effective embeddable nuclear magnetic resonance sensor using 3D printing to improve the construction process. The sensor comprises two 25.4 mm diameter x 3 mm thick neodymium-iron-boron disk magnets and an elliptical radio frequency coil. Magnetic field simulations were employed to determine the optimal separation between magnets, achieving a relatively homogeneous B₀ field of 180 mT at the center of the array. Custom 3D-printed parts ensured precise magnet alignment and facilitated coil fabrication. The sensor was encased within a Faraday cage constructed from a printed circuit board to mitigate external electromagnetic interference. A remote tuning circuit was developed to tune the coil to 7.66 MHz. Initial testing involved using an eraser sample to determine the required 90° and 180° pulse amplitudes and duration. The sensor’s performance was further validated under immersion conditions in milk, yogurt, and fresh cement paste, using the Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill technique. The signals obtained were processed by fitting the data to an exponential decay function to obtain the T₂ lifetimes and their corresponding signal intensities, and by Inverse Laplace Transformation to obtain the T₂ lifetime distribution. Results indicate the sensoŕs capability to detect variations in samples having different compositions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00678"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144654756","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"PhotoNeuro: A compact photodetector for synchronization of visual stimulus presentation during behavioural experiments in neuroscience","authors":"Xavier Cano-Ferrer ,&nbsp;Marcelo J. Moglie ,&nbsp;George Konstantinou ,&nbsp;Antonin Blot ,&nbsp;Gaia Bianchini ,&nbsp;Albane Imbert ,&nbsp;Petr Znamenskiy ,&nbsp;M. Florencia Iacaruso","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00677","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00677","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Presenting visual stimuli in neuroscience experiments often requires precise temporal alignment between visual events and electrophysiological or behavioural recordings. This is typically achieved by combining analogue signals that convey timing information about the visual cue shown on liquid crystal displays (LCDs), sensed via photodetectors and recorded through analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) acquisition boards. However, most commercial photodetector systems pose limitations such as high voltage requirements, large sensor footprints that interfere with stimulus presentation, and limited compatibility with open-source platforms. Here, we present a compact, low-cost photodetector system designed for compatibility with common 3.3–5 V microcontroller-based development boards (e.g., Arduino) and the open-source visual programming language Bonsai, widely used in neuroscience for experiment control. The circuit consists of a photodiode, an amplification stage, and a low-pass filter, and can optionally incorporate an infrared filter—useful for experiments involving infrared touch displays. To facilitate reproducibility, we provide complete design files, a bill of materials and detailed building and operational instructions. We further introduce a four-channel variant, enabling the detection of four-bit binary signals for more complex synchronization needs. Validation and characterization of the device were performed through grayscale gamma correction analysis of LCD monitors using Bonsai. Additionally, we demonstrate the system’s utility in a head-fixed mouse experiment, synchronizing visual stimulus onset with neuronal recordings acquired via Neuropixels 2.0 probes. Performance comparisons with a commercial photodetector device indicate that our system achieves equivalent signal fidelity at a substantially lower cost, while maintaining a minimal footprint suitable for experimental use.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00677"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144670576","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Eight-channel high-speed electrical impedance tomography device implemented on a programmable system on a chip","authors":"Fausto Andrés Escobar ,&nbsp;Carlos Felipe Rengifo ,&nbsp;Víctor Hugo Mosquera","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00667","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00667","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study proposes an electrical impedance tomography (EIT) device based on a programmable system on a chip (PSoc). The EIT-PSoC system is implemented using two PSoC 5LP platforms. A resistive phantom is used to study frame frequency (fps), accuracy (Ac), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). A saline phantom, along with both conductive and non-conductive objects, is employed to evaluate the system’s ability to detect changes in impedance distribution. Finally, the dielectric characteristics of the human lower pelvis is emulated using four agar phantoms, allowing an evaluation of the EIT-PSoC system’s performance in response to changes in fluid volume and conductivity. Experiments conducted on the resistive phantom to characterize the EIT-PSoC system demonstrate a frame frequency of 100 fps, a median SNR of 63.59 dB, and an accuracy of 95.39% when using a 0.98 mA sinusoidal current signal at 50 kHz. EIT image reconstruction shows that the proposed system can distinguish impedance changes in the saline phantom. Additionally, by utilizing the global impedance (GI) index and the agar phantoms, the EIT-PSoC system can detect changes in volume and conductivity, making this system a promising alternative for monitoring the volume and conductivity of biological fluids.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00667"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144632309","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Design and implementation of three-phases energy storage system using DSP F28379D for laboratory research","authors":"Hoai Phong Nguyen ,&nbsp;Thuan Thanh Nguyen ,&nbsp;Minh Phuong Le ,&nbsp;Minh Tan Tran ,&nbsp;Cong Duy Pham","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00675","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00675","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper presents the hardware design for a three-phases energy storage system connected to the grid through a safe isolation transformer, suitable for use in university laboratory experiments. The power hardware configuration includes a bidirectional DC/DC buck-boost converter and a bidirectional 3-phase 6-switch DC/AC converter. Additionally, the control board uses the Texas Instruments DSP F28379D with a charging-discharging control program written in C programming language and compiled with Code Composer Studio (CCS v12). The current and voltage sensing circuits use Hall-effect sensors to isolate the power circuit from the control circuit. A unique aspect of this research is the modular design, allowing for quick and easy upgrades and changes to the configuration and power capacity, facilitating the testing of control algorithms for the storage system. Experiments were conducted on a 3-phase 380(V) power grid through an isolation transformer and a simulated battery bank powered by the APS1000 amplifier, with a 100(V) output voltage controlled in charging mode from the grid and discharging mode to the grid at a controlled power of 230(W). The results show that the hardware model can be used effectively in laboratory settings to serve educational needs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00675"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144604654","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Open-source tubing-free impeller pump platform for controlled recirculating fluid flow for microfluidics and organs-on-chip","authors":"Sophie R. Cook ,&nbsp;Erin E. Lawrence ,&nbsp;Parastoo Sakinejad ,&nbsp;Rebecca R. Pompano","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00673","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00673","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Fluid flow is utilized in many microscale technologies, including microfluidic chemical reactors, diagnostics, and organs-on-chip (OOCs). In particular, OOCs may rely on fluid flow for nutrient delivery, cellular communication, and application of shear stress. In order for microscale flow systems to be readily adopted by non-experts, a tubing-free, user-friendly pump would be useful, particularly one that is simple to use, affordable, and compatible with cell culture incubators. To address these needs, here we share the design and fabrication of an impeller pump platform that provides recirculating fluid flow through a microfluidic loop without the need for tubing connections. Flow is driven by rotating a magnetic stir bar or 3D-printed impeller in a pump well, using magnets mounted on a DC motor. The DC motors used produce negligible heat output in a compact system, making it compatible with cell culture incubators. The pump platform accommodates user-defined microfluidic or OOC device geometries, which may be easily customized by 3D printing. Furthermore, the system is easily assembled from low-cost materials and simple circuitry by someone with no prior training. We demonstrate the ability of the platform to drive recirculating fluid flow in a microfluidic device at well-characterized flow velocities ranging from µm/s to mm/s for use with microfluidic technologies. Though designed with OOCs in mind, we envision that this platform will enable users from ranging disciplines to incorporate fluid flow in customized microscale technologies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00673"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144579549","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Temperature string device (TSD): A new low-cost instrument for sea ice observations in remote areas","authors":"Lasse Alexander Nissen Pedersen ,&nbsp;Jeppe Don ,&nbsp;Claus Melvad ,&nbsp;Søren Rysgaard","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00668","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00668","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Warmer conditions in the Arctic regions are causing sea ice to melt. Sea ice plays critical roles in reflecting solar radiation, mitigating heat absorption and slowing temperature rise. However, the reduction in annual sea ice formation, driven by rising temperatures, contributes to a positive feedback loop that accelerates further warming. This underscores the importance of monitoring seasonal sea ice growth. To address this need, a Temperature String Device has been developed. This innovative, low-cost, compact, and customizable solution is designed for easy deployment, requiring just one person or even a robot for non-human deployment. The device measures temperature throughout the sea ice and transmits data in real-time to the cloud, enabling immediate analysis to estimate sea ice thickness. Its default configuration collects 30 data points over a 3-meter depth at 30-minute intervals and remains operational for up to one year. Its affordability allows production of multiple units, enabling widespread deployment and enhancing spatial resolution. Furthermore, its suitability for robotic deployments makes it ideal for remote, inaccessible locations, facilitating simultaneous monitoring.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00668"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144570208","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Low-cost, LoRa GNSS tracker for wildlife monitoring","authors":"Adam F. Parlin ,&nbsp;Ned A. Horning ,&nbsp;Jason P. Alstad ,&nbsp;Bradley J. Cosentino ,&nbsp;James P. Gibbs","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00669","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00669","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The advent of GNSS tracking has allowed researchers to obtain detailed information on animal movement, which informs basic natural history and conservation management decisions. However, many devices are tailored to specific taxa thus limiting broader applicability. We present an open-source LoRaWAN (long range wide area network) GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) tracker, and an alternative commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) development board global positioning system (GPS) tracker, a subset of the GNSS system. The COTS development board tracker provides a pathway for designing and implementing a general purpose LoRaWAN tracking unit, while the advantages of the Wildlife Movement Institute (WMI) tracker permit specific animal tracking and additional information to be collected, such as battery voltage, estimated precision error, and received signal strength intensity. Both units have documentation for setting up a LoRa application and network server and can be easily programmed using the Arduino Integrated Development Environment. To test the utility of these trackers in a LoRa data transmission application, we pilot tested the units on Eastern gray squirrels in Syracuse, New York, USA. Our trackers highlight the capability for customizable, open-source tracking technology that can be tailored to a suite of study organisms allowing researchers to design, develop, and deploy low-cost, specialized wildlife tracking equipment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00669"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144570209","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Respiratory pressure and flow data collection device providing a framework for closed-loop mechanical ventilation","authors":"Samuel Hastings,&nbsp;Jacob Mildenhall,&nbsp;Kayla Sinclair,&nbsp;Ella F.S. Guy,&nbsp;Jaimey A. Clifton,&nbsp;Jordan F. Hill,&nbsp;Yunpeng Su,&nbsp;J. Geoffrey Chase","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00671","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00671","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This article details a pressure and flow sensor system device which enables a framework for the research and development of personalized mechanical ventilator support in a closed-loop or semi-closed-loop control system, where the measurements from this device could be hooked to digital twin models and any ventilator allowing open control.</div><div>In current practice, patient response to mechanical ventilation is highly variable. Furthermore, current weaning best-practice relies on clinical experience which can lead to variability and inequality in both care and health outcomes. Personalized care can improve these inequalities in care due to patient variability when combined with digital twin models, which simulate physiology based on patient specific data, by improving the level of care possible in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit), regardless of clinician experience and/or patient variability.</div><div>The device consists of two 3D printed custom Venturis and a Y-piece, with differential pressure sensors measuring gauge, inhalation, and exhalation pressure at the patient. The sensor system has an operating range of ±50.8<!--> <!-->cmH₂O and a mean error in flow data of 3.2%. The system uses BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication between ESP32-S3 development boards to facilitate the closed loop framework. Within this loop, pressure data is sent to a digital beside sheet, which runs digital twin protocols and sends commands to a BLE controlled ventilator. Overall, this device allows the future development and validation of personalized mechanical ventilation treatment through integration with digital twin models.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00671"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144514213","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"MDT: A simple tool to facilitate dropcasting on in situ TEM MEMS chips","authors":"Matthias Quintelier,&nbsp;Joke Hadermann","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00666","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00666","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>In situ</em> transmission electron microscopy with holders based on the use of micro-electromechanical systems provides valuable insights into material kinetics, yet sample preparation remains complex due to fragile silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) windows and the risk of leaks and contamination during dropcasting. This results in failed experiments and increases experimental costs. This paper introduces the MEMS Dropcasting Tool (MDT), a cost-effective, in-house 3D-printable solution that confines the droplet to a specific area, preventing particle migration under the O-ring and reducing contamination risks at the inlet and outlet ports of closed cell chip holders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00666"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144364745","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exoskeleton for Upper Limb Rehabilitation (EULR) with 3D printing technology based on force sensor","authors":"Triwiyanto Triwiyanto ,&nbsp;Levana Forra Wakidi ,&nbsp;I. Putu Alit Pawana","doi":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00665","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ohx.2025.e00665","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The paper addresses the significant challenge of limited accessibility and high costs associated with commercial exoskeletons for hand rehabilitation, particularly for individuals with low to middle incomes. The aim of this study is to design and develop a low-cost, 3D-printed hand exoskeleton that integrates force sensor technology, providing a more adaptable solution for rehabilitation. The methodology involves creating a prototype that combines 3D printing with real-time monitoring of upper limb (elbow) movements and forces, ensuring personalized treatment for patients. The design incorporates a lightweight structure, powered by a rechargeable LiPo battery, and utilizes mini ESP32 microcontrollers to collect the sensor parameters and drive the servo motor, enhancing user experience and functionality. Results indicate that the proposed exoskeleton significantly reduces costs to approximately 98.4 US$ per unit, compared to existing products priced above 1,500 USD. The mean root mean square error (RMSE) for the exoskeleton’s finger movements was measured at 0.498° ± 0.709°, demonstrating high accuracy in tracking hand movements. The mean linearity error of load cell across all data points was 0.2292 %. These results indicate that the load cell maintains good linearity and accuracy within the calibrated range, and is suitable for precise force measurements in static applications. Additionally, the integration of force sensors allows for precise feedback during rehabilitation exercises, promoting better outcomes. The study concludes that this innovative approach not only makes hand rehabilitation more accessible but also encourages further research and development in the field. By providing an open-source design, the research fosters collaboration among researchers and developers, paving the way for future enhancements and adaptations of the exoskeleton to meet diverse patient needs. Overall, this work contributes to advancing rehabilitation technology, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals recovering from neuromuscular disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":37503,"journal":{"name":"HardwareX","volume":"23 ","pages":"Article e00665"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144298826","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}