Abstract: Microscope imaging and illumination systems and methods are included that may be used to image multiple specimens at different locations relative to a specimen fixture without the need for repositioning a source of illumination. In some cases, light patterns emitted from illumination screens may be repositioned and reconfigured electronically as needed with an illumination signal communicated to such illumination screens. Specialized microscope imaging techniques such as phase contrast microscopy may also be used with the systems and methods discussed herein.

Abstract: Microscope imaging and illumination systems and methods are included that may be used to image multiple specimens at different locations relative to a specimen fixture without the need for repositioning a source of illumination. In some cases, light patterns emitted from illumination screens may be repositioned and reconfigured electronically as needed with an illumination signal communicated to such illumination screens. Specialized microscope imaging techniques such as phase contrast microscopy may also be used with the systems and methods discussed herein.

Abstract: Microscope imaging and illumination systems and methods are included that may be used to image multiple specimens at different locations relative to a specimen fixture without the need for repositioning a source of illumination. In some cases, light patterns emitted from illumination screens may be repositioned and reconfigured electronically as needed with an illumination signal communicated to such illumination screens. Specialized microscope imaging techniques such as phase contrast microscopy may also be used with the systems and methods discussed herein.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compact, inexpensive fluorescence microscope capable of high-resolution imaging with high light throughput suitable for use in both laboratory and field environments, and methods of use. A simple and inexpensive fluorescence microscope allows health care workers to perform various medical assays at the point of care instead of having to collect and transport biological samples to distant labs, and subsequently return the results to the patient. The microscope of the present invention is also useful for educational use and field use, and other uses as well.

Abstract: An automated biological sample analysis system and method for use in incubating and analyzing multiple samples for protein crystallization. A temperature controlled cabinet houses sample storage, sample transport, and sample imaging systems. The operation of the system is automated and can be controlled by software, which can be reconfigured remotely. An array of storage shelves includes multiple shelf columns arranged around a core. Multiple banks of removable shelves arranged as magazines are accessed through a door on the cabinet. Each shelf stores a multi-well plate and different sizes can be stored in different shelves. The core houses a sample transport system that includes a multi-axis robot that rotates about a vertical axis to access the shelves in the shelf array. The transport system retrieves and replaces the multi-well plates in the shelves and can move plates from the shelves to an imaging system where each sample can be automatically imaged.

Abstract: An automated biological sample analysis system and method for use in incubating and analyzing multiple samples for protein crystallization. A temperature controlled cabinet houses sample storage, sample transport, and sample imaging systems. The operation of the system is automated and can be controlled by software, which can be reconfigured remotely. An array of storage shelves includes multiple shelf columns arranged around a core. Multiple banks of removable shelves arranged as magazines are accessed through a door on the cabinet. Each shelf stores a multi-well plate and different sizes can be stored in different shelves. The core houses a sample transport system that includes a multi-axis robot that rotates about a vertical axis to access the shelves in the shelf array. The transport system retrieves and replaces the multi-well plates in the shelves and can move plates from the shelves to an imaging system where each sample can be automatically imaged.

Abstract: An imaging system for automation of sample monitoring includes an image capture device that cooperates with a lens assembly for imaging the samples. A translator positions the lens assembly and/or a sample plate mount for acquisition of the images. Some embodiments of the system include a light source configured to provide low temperature, flash illumination of a sample plate.

Abstract: An image analysis system and related methods for automation of the monitoring of samples to determine crystal growth. Samples are imaged from time to time using a set of imaging parameters. The resulting images are evaluated to determine the contents of the samples. If the evaluation of the image indicates the presence of crystals, the sample may be re-imaged using a different set of imaging parameters, and the resulting image analyzed to determine its contents. The sample may also be evaluated by generating multiple images of a sample using various sets of imaging parameters, identifying pixels that depict regions of interest in a plurality of images, merging the pixels from each region of interest into a composite image and analyzing the composite image. An image of a sample can also be evaluated by classifying the pixels of the image based on the contents of the sample that they depict, color-coding the pixels using the classifications, and displaying the colored image for analysis.