Delivering a customised, portable lighting solution for field microscopy, ensuring precision, portability, and seamless integration for real-time sample inspection.
Our client sought a custom solution for portable, field-ready illumination compatible with their existing stereo microscope. The purpose was to enable real-time inspection of samples requiring low magnification zoom optics. Specifically, they required illumination that would seamlessly integrate with their microscope, supporting ease of use in field environments.
The client’s specifications for the illuminator were precise and focused on functionality, portability, and ease of integration.
The client’s preferred lighting method was a ring illuminator, chosen for its ability to maintain consistent illumination across various system orientations. The main challenge was matching the optical system’s working distance with the LED ring light’s optimal working distance—a crucial yet often overlooked aspect for optimising vision systems.
The primary challenge lay in designing a portable, battery-powered illumination solution that retained the high-quality lighting typically found in lab-based equipment. Most high-quality illuminators are designed for stationary, mains-powered applications and lack the adaptability needed for fieldwork. Our solution would require a reliable, rechargeable power source without compromising on light quality or intensity.
Another consideration was ensuring that the ring light’s working distance aligned with that of the stereo microscope. A precise match between the microscope’s focal range and the ring light’s reach was essential for delivering consistent, clear illumination.
After evaluating potential lighting options, we determined that an LED ring light would be the optimal solution for this setup. LED ring lights are known for their energy efficiency, which allowed us to power the device with a USB interface while still maintaining high-intensity illumination. We prioritised a ring light design that could easily mount onto a stereo microscope, with a control box to adjust light intensity and segmentation, maintaining the compact form factor necessary for field use.
The next step involved collaboration with Starlight GmbH, our trusted partner in illumination technology. Together, we reconfigured one of their high-quality mains-powered ring lights to run on USB power, creating a solution that could easily connect to any standard USB power bank. This modification leveraged the widespread availability of USB power banks, making it an affordable, versatile solution for the client. With USB-powered portability, the client gained a simple, cost-effective, and reliable way to power the illuminator in the field.
To ensure optical compatibility, we selected a ring light with an optimal working distance range of 50-150mm, aligning closely with the 1x configuration of the client’s stereo microscope. The chosen ring light also featured a 66mm diameter interface, a common size compatible with most stereo microscopes, facilitating easy installation.
The final solution met all the client’s requirements. Together we successfully provided a high-quality ring light adapted for field use, complete with adjustable intensity, segmentation, and compatibility with the client’s existing setup. The USB-powered approach proved both economical and effective, ensuring continuous illumination without the need for mains power. See the RL66-80 USB Ring Light here.
This project exemplifies our commitment to delivering customised solutions that enhance and adapt existing equipment for specific needs. If you have unique requirements or need to retrofit or upgrade your equipment, contact us for a consultation. We provide tailored configurations to meet your precise imaging and operational needs. All our solutions are carefully assessed and recommended based on your application needs, detailed in a no-obligation quotation.
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