Build Your Own Atomic Force Microscope

 

I’ve been fascinated by atomic force microscopy ever since I compiled this slideshow for Wired back in 2008.

AFMs are expensive pieces of kit however –way beyond the means of most private individuals.

Another technology that fascinates me is the 3-D printer, which is used for rapid design prototyping in three dimensions. 3-D printers are really coming into their own in recent years with the cheapest models starting to become affordable for private buyers and the concept of desktop manufacturing starting to take off.

So, you can imagine my delight when I stumbled across this tutorial that shows how to build a cheap AFM head using a 3-D printer.

As the author explains:

As the acquisition cost for commercially available AFMs is in the order of some hundred thousand dollars, this is an approach to make these instruments available to more research groups. Most of the structure can be made with rapid prototyping mehods, all that is left to do is to screw together the pieces. Nevertheless the user is supposed to have some experience with the matter as he doesn’t get the support that comes with a commercial instrument.

While I won’t be making an AFM anytime soon –I lack the time and expertise to do all but dream– it’s great to see the DIY spirit entering the world of high-tech microscopy.

BTW, check out the fabbaloocious Fabbaloo blog for regularly updated news about the world of 3-D printing. Is it inconceiveable that in the future we will be able to print out new limbs for people using their personal genetic code?

Five Asides 1

This University of Reading Bio-bot might help researchers better understand Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and how the brain recuperates from strokes. (Image courtesy of University of Reading)

1. Science Daily is reporting that a multidisciplinary team at the University of Reading has developed a robot that can be controlled by a biological brain made from cultured rat’s neurons. The researchers hope to examine how memories manifest themselves in the brain, and how brains store specific pieces of information.

2. Meanwhile, Slate is running a piece about general reforms needed in the field of forensic science, with bad science, cognitive bias, and pressure from prosecutors, top of the list.  

Umbrella vending machine. Pic: PhotoMann.Com

3. Wired News’ Gadget Lab blog has a fun piece on The World’s Weirdest Vending Machines, which include everything from eggs to umbrellas. Check out PhotoMann’s website: he has a whole section dedicated to Japanese vending machines.