Low-Cost, Controllable Hypoxia Chamber

=Problem Definition= The purpose of this project is to design and manufacture a low-cost, controllable hypoxia chamber for stem cell research.

Background
A crucial component to conducting stem cell research is maintaining a hypoxic growing environment. Stem cells naturally grow in a low-oxygen environment and simulating this environment during experiments allows researchers to more efficiently cultivate stem cells and conduct research regarding the effect of low-oxygen environments on the cells’ development. A hypoxic environment can be simulated by using cobalt chloride, but this has undesired side effects on the cells’ health. A more realistic and effective solution is to cultivate the cells in a hypoxic chamber. However, current commercial hypoxia chambers are expensive. The objective of this project is to develop a functional, simple, and low-cost hypoxia chamber for stem cell research. The results of this project will include the hypoxia chamber design and physical product as well as a published paper detailing our design and construction process. This will allow other researchers to utilize our technology and ideas.

Deliverables
The hypoxia chamber must:
 * Be designed to fit within an incubator.
 * Be capable of maintaining a hypoxic environment for a minimum period of 21 days.
 * Be made of components that can withstand being autoclaved or sterilized with a solution.
 * Have a user interface that allows monitoring and control of O2 and CO2 levels.

Specifications
Chamber specifications:
 * Must be capable of controlling oxygen levels between 1% and 21%.
 * Must be capable of maintaining carbon dioxide level at 5%.
 * Control system for chamber will have an operational voltage of 5V.
 * Chamber components must withstand temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius and a humidity level of 85-95%.
 * At least four 13cm x 9cm x 2.5cm well multidishes must fit inside.
 * The chamber should be easily portable.
 * When closed, it should be airtight for ease of maintaining hypoxic environment.
 * Final product should be transparent so that well multidishes are visible.
 * Total cost of chamber and manufacturing must not exceed $1000.

=Design Considerations=

=Project Learning=

=Final Design=

=Validation=

=Team Members=

=Additional Documentation=

Project Schedule



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Client Interview