This microscope is designed to be used as a teaching tool for students learning about the fundamentals of a microscope. We estimated that this cost about $0.40 /microscope.
We pre-cut the microscope parts for the students and they assembled it using the video provided in the attached link. Once they confirmed function, they were asked to label the parts (note the extensive decorations). Finally, they were asked to extend upon it by suggesting improvements and using the iPad attachment to observe objects through the iPad screen.
Here's the blog entry describing the project at Castilleja http://bournidealab.posterous.com/lets-build-a-microscope
Laser_cut_microscope.ai | 1.0MB | |
Laser_cut_microscope.cdr | 537.0KB | |
Laser_cut_microscope.pdf | 431.6KB |