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Research Development of microcontroller based systems for science Several projects involve the use of microcontroller systems to design new instrumentation and sampling devices. The systems are based on the open source Arduino microcontroller and the popular BASIC Stamp modules from Parallax. 
Breadboard development for keypad input to underwater sampling system
Connecting solenoid valves to pump
MOSFETS to control solenoids
Pumping volumes are displayed on the LCD and stored in EEPROM for later downloading along with an error file if generated
Nautilus - an autonomous reactive underwater sampling system.
Collecting samples from remote areas or over extended periods of time require specialized equipment. Much of this equipment is not commercially available so we need to design, build, and test this equipment. Early schematics and plans of NAUTILUS - an autonomous underwater sampling system AquaDox - Underwater Dissolved Oxygen Reader Working underwater, we need to be able to read the values of temperature, light level, and oxygen sensors. AquaDox allows us to read the sensor values while underwater, freeing the instrument from any cables and allowing the scientific diver to react to current conditions.
The dissolved oxygen level is displayed in real time so we know what the conditions are within the chamber and when the experiemnt is completed.
 Interior electronics of AquaDox is based on an arduino microcontroller. An annotated version is on flickr. AquaDox deployed on reef sand in the Florida Keys. The LCD panel is visible which doisplays sensor data. |
Here is AquaDox connected to a benthic flux chamber in the Florida Keys. A "magic wand" is used to turn on the sensor, and also log the data that can be downloaded at the end of the experiment.