By Angela Jorge
Optics are often overlooked in the machine vision system world. Optics come in different types and optical assemblies can be used in the life science industry such as in microscopy, medical imaging, pill counts, slide reading, and quality control of pharmaceuticals.
In life science, the use of optics for super-resolution microscopy utilized for research is increasing. DNA sequencing, live-cell imaging, other research applications require sophisticated custom optics, highly-sensitive cameras, and custom illumination. Moreover, optics is also popularly used in the clinical diagnostic point of care. The field is now pushing for the development of instruments that let medical professionals draw and test as well as give instant results in an office. There is also an increasing push for HIV testing in the field. These systems work without having very sophisticated optics. In fact, they can have an imaging lens or perhaps a focusing lens for a smaller laser. Keep reading to learn more about the application of optics in the life science industry:
Important Considerations in the Use of Optics in the Life Science Industry
The application of optics in machine and robotic vision does not require expensive lenses. But, more sophisticated lenses with tight tolerances and robust mechanics are required in medical imaging. The lens needs to image with the frequencies of light present. When applying optics in medical imaging, illumination is often performed with lasers and LEDs.
What to Keep in Mind when Using Optics
It is important for users to specify optical quality and mechanical quality. They need to prioritize quality and repeatability when incorporating optics into life science systems. In such kinds of applications, users must find very high performing lenses that can perfectly work in low light conditions. Also, the lenses can be optically corrected from the visible to the Near IR spectrum. Optical or color correction is also necessary for the inspection field and some companies that manufacturer lens implement color lenses on all these lenses.
Some of those who are looking for machine vision systems don’t know the specifications of everything and overlook the important measurements such as the object’s amount of displacement and rate of motion. Knowing the constraints of and resolution limited by the lens is necessary instead of the available light or camera. Because of the system’s interdependence, everything is essential. To determine the most suitable lens for the application, it is necessary to consider the measurement speed, accuracy, and exposure times.
