# Key Technical and Conceptual Points from #hplusroadmap

• Developers are creating "SKDB" (Societal Knowledge Database), a package management system for hardware that automatically determines compatible mechanical parts based on their interfaces, using OpenCASCADE via PythonOCC for 3D geometry handling and YAML for interface definitions.

• The "pymates" component of SKDB checks geometric compatibility between mechanical parts (like pegs and holes) using transformation matrices, collision detection, and volume displacement metrics to determine if parts can physically connect.

• Biohackers in the channel are conducting laboratory experiments involving cell transformation with amphocilin, transfection, electrophoresis, and microfluidics, as well as working with umbilical cord stem cells (HUVECs) and restriction enzymes.

• The group is developing fabrication lab management tools with YAML-based formats for tracking inventory, receipts, and equipment specifications, showing a focus on open-source approaches to lab resource management.

• Participants are establishing advanced fabrication capabilities including SU8+PDMS photolithography for microfluidics and acquiring RepRap 3D printers, demonstrating practical implementation of distributed manufacturing technologies.

• The discussion highlighted several open-source medical and scientific tools including OpenVista (an open-source version of the VA's healthcare information system) and Code_Saturne for modeling contamination risks in medical environments.