Robot-Assisted Biomedical Experiments to Speed Up Low-Cost Cancer Diagnosis: Hardware Track
Project Description
Cancer is one of the top killers in Hong Kong and the other world. Conventional cancer diagnostics using invasive biopsy and/or positron emission tomography in hospitals is expensive and time-consuming. The goal of this project in collaboration with HKUST Robotic Institute is to develop robotic end-effector (that is, robotic hand) that is able to speed up the pace of our bio-medical experiments toward low-cost cancer diagnosis in the future. See the following videoclip to understand how robots can be of help in a similar area, drug development: https://goo.gl/wnSpE2.
Supervisor
LEE Yi-Kuen
Quota
2
Course type
UROP1000
UROP1100
UROP2100
UROP3100
UROP3200
UROP4100
Applicant's Roles
Successful candidates are expected to work on control improvements. The main tasks will require programming Arduino in C++ (Arduino IDE environment) and LabVIEW (using its graphical programming language). In addition, a study about pros and cons of switching from Arduino MEGA control to a PLC will be required as well. Tasks to be done in this project:
- Integrate the GUI on the prototype (tablet using LabVIEW)
- Design and implement an automatic calibration system
- Study of the migration from Arduino-based to PLC-based control system design
- Integrate sensors to inform the system if the syringes, samples and/or chemicals are
placed
- Test current prototype and improve the system reliability and design improvements
Applicant's Learning Objectives
- Improve programming skills in Arduino and LabVIEW environment for real applications
- Gain knowledge about GUI using LabVIEW
- Understand and analyse Arduino MCU and industrial PLCs, developing the ability to
choose between them depending on the system requirements
- Acquire real hands-on experience in a system which is being used in hospitals and research labs
- Collaboration with those biomedical engineers and medical doctors
Complexity of the project
Moderate