Open Source Test Tube Spinner

This slideshow is part of: Eric Lima

The Cooper Union's Open Laboratory Initiative aims to develop open source alternatives for traditionally expensive, specialized machinery. In striving for this goal, the Open Source Test Tube Spinner was developed. 

The device is built from basic electronic components, a 12V gear motor and a laser cut ABS body. The design features an ability to hold multiple test tubes of three standard sizes. It is highly customizable, compact, easy to build and most importantly, accessible to everyone in the spirit of open source development. 

Visit the project site for more information and to download the design blueprints.

  • Founded by inventor, industrialist and philanthropist Peter Cooper in 1859, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art offers education in art, architecture and engineering, as well as courses in the humanities and social sciences.

  • “My feelings, my desires, my hopes, embrace humanity throughout the world,” Peter Cooper proclaimed in a speech in 1853. He looked forward to a time when, “knowledge shall cover the earth as waters cover the great deep.”

  • From its beginnings, Cooper Union was a unique institution, dedicated to founder Peter Cooper's proposition that education is the key not only to personal prosperity but to civic virtue and harmony.

  • Peter Cooper wanted his graduates to acquire the technical mastery and entrepreneurial skills, enrich their intellects and spark their creativity, and develop a sense of social justice that would translate into action.