Form 9.B Project Summary

Chron: 971718

Proposal Number: 09.01-9591

Project Title: Modular System of Microscopic Observation Chambers for the Study of Fluids and Living Systems

Technical Abstract (Limit 200 words)

Improved techniques for microscopic observation of cells, proteins, microcapsules, and fluids in general, are commercially important for both space and ground-based research laboratories. Modular components, which can be configured to function in multiple applications, compose an innovative system of microscopy equipment. A uniquely designed hollow microscope slide offers an opportunity to study the effects of magnetic fields, electrokinetic fields, and microscopic hydrodynamics on a wide range of fluids and biological samples. The key element of the system is the hollow slide, which interfaces with other modular components, providing novel opportunities to manipulate the sample. Three sets of endcaps, each specifically designed to accommodate magnets, electrodes, or pumps, offer flexibility, stringent control of the applicable field, and user-friendly interfaces for the investigator. Now, rather than maintaining a large inventory of different slides and culturing dishes, the investigator can purchase a modular system of components that can be assembled to perform a multitude of experiments and variety of field application research. Whether used in the gravity-free environment of space or in ground-based research and analytical laboratory applications, our modular observation chamber system has the potential to be an efficient technique for observing specific biological components in, or interactions between, fluid materials.

Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words)

Commercial applications will capitalize on the widespread need for unique microscopic observation techniques both on earth and in the low gravity environment of space. The commercial product anticipated from this proposed research program is an innovative microscopic observation system for use in both space and ground-based laboratories. Such a system has potential applications in areas such as magnetically delivered therapeutics, electrokinetic phase demixing, particle aggregation in electric fields, electrophoretic mobility of particles and drops, and the motion of solutes in simulated iontophoresis. Microscopic observations of interfaces provides an opportunity to examine: the coalescence process in aqueous two-phase systems; solutocapillary motion during macrovoid formation; macromolecular crystallization when free diffusion is used as the crystal growth method; and tracking of solute movement in simulated transdermal delivery experiments. Additional spin-off products and services are expected to have broad applications in numerous scientific and medical research fields; hence, the market for our technology is the widely segmented biomedical field. While our technology will have broad global applications in the ground-based markets, our target market niche is application of the technology in the unique environment of space in the glovebox on the International Space Station.

Name and Address of Principal Investigator (Name,

Organization Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)

D. Scott Dunn

Space Hardware Optimization Technology (SHOT), Inc.

5605 Featherengill Road

Floyd Knobs , IN 47119

Name and Address of Offeror (Firm Name, Mail Address,

City/State/Zip)

Mark S. Deuser

Space Hardware Optimization Technology (SHOT), Inc.

5605 Featherengill Road

Floyd Knobs , IN 47119