Automatic xy micro-stage for microscopy

thingiverse

This is a project to construct a cheaper and custom-made automatic xy micro-stage for mouse imaging. It is meant to reduce time under anesthesia for mice in-vivo experiments as well as to improve consistency of mouse positioning inter-timepoint under imaging probe. These are important considerations for successful longitudinal studies in accordance to the 3R's of ethical animal research (reduction, replacement and refinement of protocols). This was modelled fully in Fusion 360 CAD software with dimensions custom to our optical table for our lab's in-house built optical coherence tomography machine. 3D printed materials mostly do not matter, but I am experimenting with the use of TPU for dampening vibrations due to stepper motor in rest state which may be impactful during imaging, and the use of carbon-fiber nylon for parts which may require sterilization via dry auto-clave. Non-3D printed materials required are: heating array sticker, linear rail rods of 8mm (x4) and 5mm diameter >=30mm length (x2), M3 and M2 nuts and bolts of various lengths, inserts, 17HS4401 stepper motors with integrated T8 lead screws >=30mm length (x2), LMK8UU Square Flange Linear Ball Bearings (x2), micro-controller with CNC shield expansion board and A4988 Stepper motor driver. All programing of positioning of micro-stage is performed using universal g-code sender. Please stay-tuned for potential updates on model design (or hopefully on successful use!) .