This graduation project looks to improve the shortcomings of open-source RTI-microscopes based on Raspberry Pi by means of design. Such as messy cable management, providing a case to house the electronics and improving the workability of the RTI-dome supporting the microscope. More specifically, the improvements in this project were dedicated to enhancing the design of the case, hiding the Raspberry Pi and cables, thus giving the microscope a finished look.
Additionally, improving the RTI-dome by making it consist of multiple parts, also hiding the cables, changing the material so it is less reflective and making it able to split, so workability with the RTI-dome is increased. The basis of this project is a prototype of an RTI-microscope built by a previous graduation group, based on a Raspberry Pi and an attachable HQ-camera module. To inspect samples, they adapted an open-source X,Y-stage, known as OpenFlexure. However, this X,Y-stage was later ditched in this project for various reasons.
These enhancements are realised using 3D printing technology alongside CAD modelling in Fusion 360. By quickly iterating through different case designs and dome models within Fusion, then printing them to see and test their feasibility, rapid prototypes could be created. In the end, a successful RTI-dome that could be split, reducing the time to switch out samples, was created. On top of that, a functional case design was found that had a modern look to it and was able to hide all of the electronics.