Optics
Invetech has a strong and dynamic optical capability developed over many years and many dozens of successful projects.
Example Applications: Microscopy, Cell imaging, Molecular diagnostics
Distinct optical architectures for fully integrated systems
Our breadth of experience includes many fields of microscopy, fluorescence, spectroscopy, low light applications, light absorbance, cytometry, and surface plasmon resonance. Core capabilities in optics, mechanics, mechatronics, electronics and software ensure a fully integrated solution. Our dedicated optics laboratory is used extensively for initial development of proof of principle and prototype optical systems where our extensive stock of optical components (e.g. lenses, filters, mirrors) and optomechanical hardware (mounts, carriages, rails), coupled with in house manufacturing capabilities and a range of test and measurement equipment, supports our agile development philosophy. Optical subsystems are often further developed, integrated, tested and commissioned in this laboratory before moving out to our project designated laboratory for full integration into the equipment under development.
Most optical systems require controlled incident light to interact with a target or sample to create an observable and quantifiable result.
Regardless of the application, considerations for the design of an illumination source include:
- Conditioning of the illuminating light (Source shape, intensity, direction, collimation and focus)
- Size, shape and uniformity of illuminated area at the sample
- Polarization state of the incident light
- Spectral requirements and banding
- Monitoring and control of spectral bands and intensity
- Consideration of the physical alignment (adjustability and stability)
- Thermal management of the source
Light emitted from target media often needs to be collected, modified or controlled in some way before being captured or measured. With careful consideration, matching light collection and detector specification, detection efficiencies and sensitivity can be optimized.
Typically with a design one or more of the following areas will be critical to the application.
- Spectral bandpass
- Maximizing light collection solid angle
- Image magnification factor
- Stray light suppression – baffle design, aperture placement and surface finish
Whether you are trying to solve inconsistent results, optimize your measurement set up or simply looking to investigate a phenomena, Invetech’s team of experienced optics personnel are help to help you.
All optical instruments require a means of detection of optical signals.
Detection uses various electronic means of capture which allows the signal to be captured in analogue or digital formats. This has enabled fast data capture, signal amplification, data retention and post processing of signal.
Invetech has experience in integration of many technologies for light detection:
- CCD & CMOS 2D arrays used to capture extended images of a sample
- Linear arrays (Line scan cameras) typically used in scanning applications
- Discrete photodetectors generally used for monitoring medium to strong light signals, often for absorbance and photometry applications and in monitoring light levels used for feedback control
- PMT (Photomultiplier Tube), APD (Avalanche Photodiode) and SPCM (Single Photon Counting Module) technologies required for detection of very low light levels, and very short response times
- Alignment, physical stability and thermal management are also critical considerations in the design of the detector solution
Invetech understands how to navigate this space and arrive at the best outcome in the fastest time. Typical questions include:
- What do I need to see?
- resolution
- magnification
- objective class
- camera selection
- How do I find what is of interest?
- sample positioning,
- storage and retrieval
- focusing
- location of target
- illumination
- How much do I need to see?
- single image
- large mapped area
- scanned volume
- What do I need to do with the data?
- collect and store images,
- stitch images
- find/count/track/classify objects (eg: Machine learning)
- How do I ensure long term quality of data?
- vibration isolation
- thermal control
- tuned frequency response
- optomechanical stability
