biosample-cloud-tracker

Cloud-based Android application for real-time laboratory inventory and sample tracking. Developed using MIT App Inventor

BioSample Cloud Tracker

A cloud-based Android application developed using MIT App Inventor for real-time laboratory inventory management.

Key Features

• Cloud Synchronization: Uses CloudDB to sync lists across multiple devices (perfect for lab teams).
• Dynamic Inventory: Add and remove items (reagents, DNA samples, primers) on the go.
• Persistent Storage: Data is stored remotely and persists even after closing the app.

Tech Stack

• Platform: Android
• Environment: MIT App Inventor
• Backend: CloudDB (Redis-based)

Logic Overview

The app utilizes event-driven programming blocks to handle data input, selection picking, and cloud storage triggers.

Application Logic (Blocks)

Data Addition and Cloud Sync

This part handles input validation and stores entries into the CloudDB.

Selection and Navigation

Logic for picking items from the list and switching between screens.

Algorithm Workflow:

Input: User enters a sample name in TextBox1.

Local Update: The item is added to the global List variable and displayed in ListView.

Cloud Sync: The app calls CloudDB.StoreValue using the sample name as both the Tag and the Value, ensuring data is saved on the server.

How to Test:

Download the BioSample_Tracker.apk from this repository.

Install it on your Android device (enable "Unknown Sources").

Alternatively, import the .aia file into MIT App Inventor to view the source blocks.

Roadmap / Future Improvements

• QR/Barcode Integration: Use the phone's camera to scan tubes and instantly find sample data.
• Export to CSV/Excel: Ability to send the current inventory list to email for documentation.
• Expiration Alerts: Automated notifications for reagents with upcoming expiry dates.
• Offline Mode: Local caching of data when Wi-Fi in the lab is unstable.