The Ring Stand Microscope

Versatile technology for Material Science

Needs of our budding scientists

Chemistry, Physics, Geology and Engineering have need of a microscope.

Science and Engineering students need lab experience in supramolecular phases and nanotechnology.

The cost associated with lab equipment is prohibitive to many high schools and colleges.

The solution:Design a better ‘scope

Low cost Easy setup and modification Polarizing Media supportive for camera/video Temperature controlled

The prototype:

Prototype One, results:

The design process:

Prototype one: Pros Light weight Temperature regulated Easy to setup and use Utilizes low cost components User friendly

The design process: cont.

Prototype one: Cons Platform is too small Slide is constrained in non-rotating groove Very sensitive to temperature influences Unit is not attached to solid support structure Light polarizing lenses are not built in

The current design:

Platform is larger and rotates Slide is not constrained in a groove Less sensitive to temperature influences

(more mass in platform) Unit is attached to support structure and is

very stable Light polarizing lenses are provided for in

two separate areas

A picture is worth…..

More pictures:

Further developments

Rapid Prototyping in plastic (ABS) of ‘scope body for economic considerations.

Developing light source that is bright but low cost.

Pressure control adapter Spectrometer module Productions costs and considerations to

keep cost down……student projects in manufacturing and marketing?

Market applications

High schools/colleges introducing students to subject matter in Material Sciences.

Project Lead the Way curriculum for science explorations.

Geology subject matter. Video/still capture of changing

structures/cells.

Thank you for coming

UC Clermont College faculty

Cliff Larrabee…….Chemistry

Dexter Hulse……..Computer Aided Design