- Single Board computers and microcontrollers are ideal for bespoke automation projects!
- Whether simple measurement setups or complex analytical systems, the versatile technology can be adapted to your research projects.
- Leverage miniature computing technology to enhance your experimental and analytical processes in both laboratory and field settings.
Key Benefits of a Compact Computing System
- Cost-effective hardware platform
- Energy-efficient and compact design
- Flexible I/O capabilities
- Compatibility with a wide range of sensors and modules
- Strong community support and extensive documentation
- Freedom to modify the Python source code of the custom control software we develop for you.
- With extensive experience in trace gas analysis, elemental and stable isotope analysis, and automation utilizing compact computing systems, we develop tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
- Our services include consulting, planning, and technical implementation of automation for your experimental and analytical processes.
- We provide ongoing operational support and promote continuous improvement.
- Additionally, we offer training in developing specific control programs using Python for individual applications.
Selected Projects
From Simple Measurement Setups to Complex Analytical Systems.
Following are selected projects we realized with Raspberry Pi single board computers or microcontrollers.
Raspberry Pi is a trademark of Raspberry Pi Ltd.
EACobot
Cost-Efficient Co-Worker for Elemental Analysis – Controlled by Raspberry Pi 4
The EACobot is a small robotic arm that automatically transfers samples from the sample plate directly into the autosampler's sampling channel of an elemental analyzer, without using the sample carousel. This eliminates manual sample loading and significantly reduces potential errors in analysis. After receiving the autosampler's start signal, the EACobot robotic arm automatically delivers the samples according to the current sample list.
- Processing of custom sample lists
- Handling of two sample plates with 96 samples each per run
- Use of two suction lances for separate handling of isotopically enriched samples or separately stored standards
- Reduced cross-contamination through self-cleaning of the suction lances before each sample transfer
- Helium flushing of the autosampler channel is ensured.
- Autosampler reversibility: Minimal mechanical intervention through Reed technology. Simply remove the carousel from the autosampler housing to use the EACobot or reattach it for conventional use.
- User-friendly operation with intuitive software
- Remote access available
- Cost-effective yet powerful
The EACobot is ideally suited for coupling with a simple sample transfer system that does not require complex carousel mechanics. We are seeking partners interested in collaborating with us to manufacture simple EA sample transfer systems without carousel mechanics.
BagSampler
Automated Air Sampler System for Research Aircraft – Controlled by Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller
The Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller operates servo-controlled ball valves for both the inlet and outlet, connected to a manifold featuring 10 solenoid valves. The system is equipped with a GPS receiver and sensors for pressure, temperature, and humidity, which provide threshold values for the automated sampling process. The operator determines the start time of the sampling. Status data are stored internally in a log file, and measurement values can be recorded at a resolution of 1 Hz and made available as a data stream for an external computer.
Keywords:
W. Junkermann, J. Hacker, Airborne Research Australia
The 1.7L sample volume is flushed at a high flow rate at least five times per second, after which servo-controlled ball valves close the inlet and outlet. This enables the sample to be taken within approximately 0.3 seconds. The less time-critical transfer of the sample into transportable bags takes about two minutes, driven by an inflating bellow that pushes the sample into one of the ten sampling bags. Resetting the sampler takes another two minutes. After approximately four minutes, the ball valves reopen, and the system is ready for the next sampling sequence.
VialFiller
Gas Vial Filling System – Controlled by Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller
The VialFiller controls a GC-PAL autosampler that fills 12 mL sample vials in a 96-position gas vial rack with standard gases in a user-defined order. The Raspberry Pi Pico controls the filling and evacuation sequences, enabling the filling of the vials with various gases according to a predefined program. The filling and evacuation of the vials is performed by using solenoid valves.
Filling Sequence: An injection needle pierces the vial septum, after which a vacuum pump evacuates the vial. The desired gas is then introduced. Multiple gas exchanges are performed to ensure thorough gas replacement, followed by the final filling to a predetermined pressure. The filling process for one vial takes approximately three minutes.
A standard single-channel injection needle is used, eliminating the need for complex dual-channel needles that are typically required in gas bench applications. This simplification of the needle leads to lower operational costs.
Keywords: U. Ostler, M. Dannenmann, IMK-IFU Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry
Preconcentration Unit for N2O and CH4
A device for preconcentration of N2O and CH4 from ambient air for Measurement with QCLAS – Controlled by Raspberry Pi 4
The Preconcentration Unit, also known as "TREX" (J. Mohn et al., EMPA), is a specialized device designed to concentrate N2O and CH4 from ambient air. This allows for the precise measurement of stable isotopes, such as δ15N and δ13C in N2O and CH4, using a Quantum Cascade Laser Absorption Spectrometer (QCLAS).
This project serves as an excellent example of how complex processes can be managed using a Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi controls numerous components to manage a sophisticated sample collection sequence.
The Stirling cooler is used to cool a cold trap in a vacuum chamber, allowing N2O and CH4 to be adsorbed, while most other air components pass through. This technology eliminates the need for liquid nitrogen as a cooling medium. During desorption, the cold trap is gradually heated to remove any remaining unwanted components.
The technology was developed by EMPA for the measurement of δ15N and δ13C in N2O and CH4 in air samples using the QCLAS spectrometer.
Based on this development, a modified version with Raspberry Pi-controlled components was built for the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT, IMK-IFU).
Keywords:
B. Wolf, KIT, N2O, CH4
J. Mohn, EMPA, TREX
20-Channel Temperature Control
Simultaneous Control and Data Acquisition of Water Temperature in 20 Incubation Chambers for Plant Experiments by Raspberry Pi 3:
Simultaneous Temperature Regulation of 20 Plant Experiment Chambers Using Raspberry Pi 3: A Python-based control software was developed to regulate the temperature in 20 incubation chambers. It controls the inner temperature of each chamber by switching the corresponding cooling water valves to maintain the respective temperature. The measured values and valve states are recorded for monitoring purposes.
Keywords: N. Ruehr, A. Gast, IMK-IFU Plant Ecophysiology