Summary of RWXBioFuge – Open source centrifugation machine
RWXBioFuge is an open-source microcentrifuge designed for low-resource labs, educators, makers, and DIY biologists. It provides assembly guides, Arduino source code, rotor designs, bill of materials, CAD and wiring files, plus seven demo experiments and tutorials to teach practical lab techniques and basic science principles. The V0.1 is used at Waag Society's Open Wetlab, with ongoing improvements and community support available via contact.
Parts used in the RWXBioFuge:
- Arduino Ethernet (source code provided)
- Rotor (OpenSCAD source)
- 3D printed rotor parts
- Bolt, nuts, and fasteners for rotor assembly
- Motor suitable for centrifugation
- Power supply for motor and Arduino
- Electronic components and wiring (Fritzing wiring available)
- Chassis and enclosure parts (3D model and 2D CAD files)
- Microcentrifuge tubes or sample holders compatible with rotor
- Bill of Materials as documented in Device folder
RWXBioFuge
Centrifugation is a powerful method for isolation of compounds such as DNA, proteins, oil or membrane vesicles from a complex mixture. The RWXBioFuge was designed to bring this powerful tool into the hands of labtechnicans, scientists, hackers, makers, diybio-ers and those who cannot afford to procure A-label equipment in low-resource settings.
It may also be used as an educational project to teach some fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, biology and electronics hands-on. Apart from an assembly guide, this documentation also includes 7 instructions for demonstration experiments and science classes.
For assembly workshops or any questions, remarks or suggestions please contact [email protected]
This repository contains the code, source files and instructions for operating the RWXBioFuge Open Source microcentrifuge.
- ArduinoCode: source code for the Arduino Ethernet
- Rotor: OpenSCAD source code for the rotor, preview at YouMagine
- Device: Bill of Materials, 3D model, 2D CAD files and Fritzing wiring
- Docs: assembly and tutorial documents
The V0.1 machine is used in the Waag Society’s Open Wetlab and future improvements will be made during the Open Wetlab open evenings.
For more detail; RWXBioFuge – Open source centrifugation machine
- What is the RWXBioFuge?
The RWXBioFuge is an open-source microcentrifuge project providing hardware, software, and documentation for low-resource labs, educators, and makers. - Who is the RWXBioFuge intended for?
It is intended for lab technicians, scientists, hackers, makers, diybio-ers, educators, and those who cannot afford commercial equipment in low-resource settings. - What materials and files are included in the repository?
The repository includes ArduinoCode, Rotor OpenSCAD source, Device files with Bill of Materials, 3D models, 2D CAD, Fritzing wiring, and Docs with assembly and tutorials. - Can the RWXBioFuge be used for teaching?
Yes, it includes seven demonstration experiments and tutorials for teaching physics, chemistry, biology, and electronics hands-on. - Is there example code for the RWXBioFuge controller?
Yes, Arduino source code for the Arduino Ethernet is provided in the ArduinoCode folder. - Are rotor designs provided?
Yes, the rotor OpenSCAD source code is included and a preview is available at YouMagine. - Where can I find assembly instructions?
Assembly guides and tutorial documents are included in the Docs folder of the repository. - Who do I contact for workshops or questions?
For assembly workshops or questions contact [email protected] as listed in the documentation. - Is the RWXBioFuge already in use?
Yes, the V0.1 machine is used in the Waag Society's Open Wetlab and will be improved during open evenings.
