Terminology and Nomenclature - BrendonWatsonLab/Digital-Homecage GitHub Wiki

Term Definition
Assembly An "assembly" is made up of one or more components.
Part A "part" is the smallest working physical unit of a project. It refers to either a "purchased components", or a "modified component".
Purchased Component An unmodified physical piece that has been purchased from a vendor.
Modified Component A purchased component that has been modified after being received from a vendor before use.
Electronic Parts Parts with power running to or through them
Solenoid Valve that opens and allows water to flow from the water reservoir to the water dispenser in the cage when the mouse activates the corresponding infrared sensor.
Infrared Sensors Composed of a photo-interrupter breakout board which has the infrared beam-break sensor, and an attached male three-pin connector.
Hygro-thermometer To monitor internal temperature and humidity from outside the exterior encasement.
Pellet Dispenser chute A hexagonal cylinder that the food pellets slide down to be delivered to the mouse.
Pellet Distributor Disk A circular disk with holes around the circumference that distributes the pellets to be dispensed.
Hardware Components Non-3D printed parts that contribute to the structure of the box
External Encasement The outermost box, constructed of white 3/4 Foam PVC
Acrylic Light Diffuser Panel Translucent acrylic panel to diffuse the infrared LEDs to evenly illuminate the infrared camera
Diffuser Panel Supports Supports for acrylic light diffuser panel that keeps the panel securely in place at the correct angle to provide even illumination.
Light-Tight Air Vent Vent to provide air circulation while isolating the cage from light
Animal Cage Base The floor and sides of the murine home environment
Animal Cage Lid The covering of the murine home environment
Water Reservoir The 10mL container that holds the murine water supply.
Basin Collar Detachable base that connects to Pellet base, allows for easy swapping of food locations.