FluorCam
FluorCam system based on RoboCam, adapted for fluorescence imaging applications
FluorCam is a low-cost, open-source fluorescence and IR dark-field microscope system based on RoboCam. The system achieves fluorescence imaging comparable to commercial microscopes at a fraction of the cost, making advanced imaging accessible for research and education.
Project Overview
FluorCam adapts the RoboCam platform for fluorescence imaging:
- Coaxial Optics: Specialized optical design for fluorescence imaging
- Raspberry Pi Imaging: High-quality imaging using Raspberry Pi camera hardware
- Custom Python Automation: Automated acquisition and control workflows
- Low-Cost Design: ~$500 total cost vs. $20,000+ commercial systems
Key Features
- Fluorescence Imaging: Comparable performance to commercial fluorescence microscopes
- IR Dark-Field Imaging: Infrared dark-field capabilities for enhanced contrast
- Coaxial Optics: Custom optical design optimized for fluorescence applications
- Automated Acquisition: Python-based automation for experiment workflows
- Cost-Effective: Dramatically lower cost than commercial alternatives
- Based on RoboCam: Inherits motion control and automation from RoboCam platform
Technical Implementation
FluorCam extends RoboCam with:
- Optical Filters: Integration of excitation and emission filters for fluorescence
- Mounting Systems: Custom gantry alignment and optical mounts
- Automated Acquisition: Specialized workflows for fluorescence imaging experiments
- Mechanical Design: Custom 3D-printed components for optical alignment
Research Impact
FluorCam demonstrates that high-quality fluorescence imaging can be achieved with:
- Open-source hardware and software
- Low-cost components
- Custom design and fabrication
- Accessible automation tools
Repository
The complete source code, documentation, and setup instructions are available in the RoboCam-Suite repository, which includes the FluorCam implementation.