Ender3 3D printer kit transformed into open, programmable syringe pump set

Abstract

A cheap, open source 3D printer (Creality Ender 3) is transformed into an Open Hardware, programmable syringe pump set. Only 3 parts need to be purchased outside of the printer kit. All other parts are either in the Ender 3 kit, or can be 3D printed. No prior knowledge in electronics or programming languages is required. The pumps are controlled by the 3D printer firmware and motherboard and programmed in simple G-code text files. The total cost of a three pumps setup is $€170. The pumps are capable of reaching stable flows down to 5 mL/min using cheap, disposable 10 mL syringes. Higher flow speeds are also achievable, in the order of mL/min.

An Open‐Source Modular Framework for Automated Pipetting and Imaging Applications

“…The low positioning error of less than +/− 4% within the FOV with repeated movements over 18 h was a surprising finding for the low-cost x/y laser engraving table and shows the strength from the already well-engineered maker hardware for use in the scientific context. [45] Other critical points within an experiment are possible malfunctional behavior of components within an ongoing experiment leading to a cancelation of the process, as reagents such as antibodies are often very expensive and should not be wasted. This can be remedied by early debugging in the form of a protocol run with "dummy reagents" such as dyed water and checking the intermediate results or evaluating a series of time lapses made using a cell phone camera.…”

“…The low positioning error of less than +/− 4% within the FOV with repeated movements over 18 h was a surprising finding for the low‐cost x/y laser engraving table and shows the strength from the already well‐engineered maker hardware for use in the scientific context. [ 45 ]…”

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“…Emerging examples of the use of enabling technology in supramolecular chemistry showcase the potential impact on the field: from faster discovery and screening to efficient optimisation, analysis, and scale-up ( Figure 2 ). Commercial flow reactors, robots and high-throughput work stations are increasingly available alongside low-cost, home-build options ( Baas and Saggiomo, 2021 ), meaning these enabling technologies are becoming more accessible to research laboratories. It is likely that as this availability of technology increases, it will become more integrated in research laboratory procedures and industrial manufacturing.…”

The Field Guide to 3D Printing in Optical Microscopy for Life Sciences

“…Direct pump control via G‐code can be easily realized by repurposing motors and controllers of a 3D printer. [ 65 ]…”

“…Direct pump control via G-code can be easily realized by repurposing motors and controllers of a 3D printer. [65] Adapted under the terms of the CC-BY license. [31] Copyright 2020, The Authors, published by Springer Nature Group.…”