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Machine Design
The machine consists of a food container and pump, a UV light, a rotary table, a high resolution camera, 2 water valves, drainage system, and a 16 vial well plate.
The process begins when the user manually places 5-10 larvae in each vial, and loads the plate onto the pegs of the rotary table. When the program starts, larvae are rinsed, and food is dispensed into each vial. The larvae then feed for 30-40 minutes. When they are done eating, the food is washed out of each vial by means of a pulse wash. With the UV light on, and the larvae glowing because they have eaten food containing fluorescein dye, a high resolution camera snaps a picture of each of the vials for photo analysis.
Summer Work
As part of the BEND program, Clara and Lana have taken over the robotic automation device to test and collect data. At its current state, the machine only runs a demo program. Many changes were needed before testing with live specimens
Initial problems:
• Overflowing vials
• Poor camera lens
• Camera placement
• Leakage
• Food consistency and placement of container
• Loose connection to the UV light
• Torn tubing
• Escaping larvae
• Peeling epoxy in the well plate
• Valve pressure
• Loose wiring
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