The Importance of Machine Vision Cameras in Life Science Applications

Crucial developments in science have often been linked to advances in vision technology. For example, the microscope made it possible to observe some of the smallest, most mysterious mechanisms of the body.

As science has advanced, it has called upon increasingly subtle tools for augmenting human vision. These days, machine vision systems can work together with more traditional tools to deepen the data that can be collected.

Machine Vision Cameras Enter the Life Science Laboratory

In industrial applications, machine vision cameras are used in quality control. Believe it or not, many of the fundamental applications are the same in life science. Some key uses of vision systems include:

• Checking to ensure adequate biological samples have been collected;

• Inspecting disposable materials, such as needles, to check for defects;

• Monitoring lab specimens for changes while researchers are away;

• Validating test results by ensuring appropriate specimen handling.

To deliver on these duties, life science camera systems should be small, compact, and self-contained. The more sophisticated the on-board image sensor, the better the image quality and clearer the results.

Increasingly, systems need to be truly multi-function to meet laboratory needs. Lighting and communication capabilities should be embedded into the camera as a cohesive whole. This facilitates continuous capture of information using a network.

Developing the Ideal Life Science Camera System

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Size, longevity, durability, and other physical characteristics are crucial to an effective scientific camera. The life sciences, in particular, have many requirements other fields do not – for example, researchers might have to wait years for FDA approval of their findings!

As a result, reliability becomes even more important in all aspects of the system.

Researchers generally seek these traits:

Resolution

Resolution is one of the most important specifications of any camera. It’s especially critical in life sciences because many experiments focus on precise reactions and tiny quantities of matter. Color reproduction is essential for fixed samples.

Frames Per Second (FPS)

When samples are in motion, FPS becomes key. In general, the frame rate must be faster the smaller the sample is. Whether tracking bloodflow or the movement of fish, images must faithfully replicate motion.

Aperture

The choice of aperture depends largely on the experiment’s requirements. The right aperture type must work effectively in the research environment to consistently provide correct amounts of exposure.

Sensor Type

Sensor type is a vital consideration in difficult environments, including low-light, and in cases where noise must be minimized. To further reduce distortions, high-grade glass should be used for lenses.

For more information on machine vision's scientific role, see Vision in Life Sciences, part of our AIA Vision Online website.

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