Adapting Legacy Microscopes for Digital Imaging through 3D Printing
By Tariq Roberts | 9 May, 2024
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Forensic Drug Laboratory faced a challenge with their older generation microscopes. While reliable, they lacked modern computer interfaces and built-in cameras to capture digital images of the lab’s samples.
This created the following problems for the lab’s staff:
Repeating steps: If evidence needed to be re-examined, time would be spent preparing samples again, since past images were unavailable.
Writing reports: Report detail was limited since clear pictures to support findings could not be included.
Design and Material Selection
The lab considered attaching their digital camera (Olympus Tough TG-6) to the microscope lens as a cost-effective solution to purchasing new equipment. However, finding compatible lens adapters proved difficult. Recognising the potential of 3D printing, they contacted Vincy Makers for assistance.
The adapter’s relatively simple design drew inspiration from the functional elements of a camera lens. Multiple adapters were designed to match with varying lengths and diameters of each microscope’s eyepiece. A crucial aspect of the design was the method of securing the adapter to the camera, which mimicked the camera’s lens cap “locking detents”.
Although the required measurements for the design could have been communicated virtually, visiting the lab provided valuable insights and opportunities. Including:
Obtaining first hand measurements for design accuracy,
Negotiating with the lab to keep key equipment in our workshop, thus speeding up prototype cycles,
Material selection considerations (e.g. proximity to chemicals that could degrade the part).
PLA was chosen for the final parts considering its cost, performance and relative inertness to the low-impact chemicals typically used in this lab's environment. However, we also experimented with other materials such as ASA, Nylon Carbon Fiber (PA12-CF) and TPU, to broaden our knowledge and gain insights into their printing behaviour for future applications (Findings summarised in Table 1).
Table 1: Material Comparisons
Key Takeaways
3D printing has once again proven its ability to breathe new life into legacy equipment. This reduces environmental impact and costs associated with disposal and new equipment purchases. This is particularly important to developing Caribbean nations who typically contend with limited resources, high import costs, complex import logistics, long lead times, and an environment that is sensitive to change.
Projects like these exemplify the power of 3D printing. By utilising a simple 3D printed adapter, the lab has significantly improved its capabilities in capturing digital images of their samples. This not only enhances their efficiency but also strengthens its ability to serve the community, reduce its environmental impact and resource consumption.
This project aligns very well with our values, and goals towards finding positive and useful ways to apply 3D printing in the Caribbean. It demonstrates how this technology can modernise legacy equipment across industries, save resources by extending equipment lifespans and reduce reliance on hard-to-find parts.
Are you facing a similar challenge? Contact us to see if 3D printing can be your solution!
Additional Project Details
Microscope Brands: Fisher Scientific, National Digital, Leica CME
Digital Camera: Olympus Tough TG-6
3D Printers: Prusa MK3S (Prototyping), Ultimaker S3 (Final Parts)
3D Printing Materials: TPU, ASA, PLA, PA12-CF
Design Software: Fusion 360
Slicer Software: PrusaSlicer, Cura
