PCB Design for Laboratory Syringe Pump

Job ID: 39154841

Budget: €30 – €250 EUR

I'm seeking a seasoned PCB designer to conceptualize and create a PCB for a laboratory syringe pump. The project encompasses:
- Completing 10 pre-defined tasks
- Providing post-design support for testing and functionality.

Project Overview:


1. PCB Specifications:
A 2-layer or 4-layer FR4 board, with a thickness of 1.6mm and copper weight of 1oz or 2oz, depending on current handling requirements.

2. Motor Control:
DRV8825 stepper motor drivers will be used, capable of handling up to 2.5A peak current, offering better microstepping performance than the A4988.
The board will control four independent stepper motors for the syringe pump, allowing flexible operation with one, two, or all channels simultaneously at different or identical flow rates.

3. Power Supply:
A 12V, 15A power supply will be recommended for stability when all four channels are used simultaneously.

4. Communication Protocols:
UART for communication with the Nextion display.
I2C for sensor integration. SPI as an optional interface for other components.

5. Embedded System:
The system will be based on the ESP32 microcontroller.

6. Safety Features:
Sensors or programmed mechanisms will be implemented to prevent motor overload, automatically stopping the syringe pump when the syringe reaches its barrier (empty).

7. User Interface:
The Nextion display will be integrated with individual pages for each syringe pump, providing easy touchscreen control.

8. Power and Environment:
The system will operate in a laboratory environment (microfluidic laboratories and research institutions), not for human use. Power requirements will be around 12V, 15A, considering the simultaneous operation of all four channels with syringes.

9. App Control:
The system will support Arduino code uploads for further customization.

10. Certification and Documentation:
The design will adhere to relevant standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CE), ensuring compliance with necessary certifications.

Full documentation will be provided for production and future updates or changes, including the open-source nature of the Arduino programs.

After the design phase, the selected freelancer must be able to supply a mix of remote troubleshooting, comprehensive documentation and guidelines, as well as hands-on testing support.

Ideal candidates should have:
- Extensive experience in PCB design, particularly for laboratory equipment.
- Ability to translate complex engineering concepts into clear, understandable documentation.
- Experience in providing remote troubleshooting support.
- Skills in collaborating during hands-on testing.

The PCB design will be handled separately from manufacturing and assembly, which will be managed independently. Key to this project is an expert who can deliver a high-quality, functional PCB design, and provide thorough post-project support.

*The project has been considered as fixed price.