Abstract: The present invention provides, in various embodiments, a miniature movable-beam laser objective configured to fit within the very small dimensions of a standard objective. This small, portable movable-laser source allows the beam to be directed at a computer-generated target or at the spot of a focused target-designator beam.

Abstract: The present invention provides, in various embodiments, a miniature movable-beam laser objective configured to fit within the very small dimensions of a standard objective. This small, portable movable-laser source allows the beam to be directed at a computer-generated target or at the spot of a focused target-designator beam.

Abstract: A laser assembly is provided which includes an objective assembly having an objective and a dichroic mirror, a collimating assembly having a collimating lens and a selectively displaceable mount, and a laser supply assembly having a laser source. The laser assembly can provide laser light through the collimating lens, which collimates the laser light into a collimated beam. The laser beam is preferably transmitted onto the dichroic mirror, which reflects the laser light through the objective along the optical path of the objective which converges into a focal point. Such a laser assembly preferably provides substantial control of the laser beam, for example, for micromanipulation of a sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for using eye-safe infrared energy from a Class I laser to manipulate cells in culture. The laser energy produces one or more phase boundary propulsion events, which generate hydrodynamic forces sufficient to manipulate cells at the focal point.

Abstract: A modular laser objective for use with a microscope is provided. A mounting modular body permits the modular objective to be releasably mounted to the turret of a microscope. The objective has an optical axis that permits an image beam to be emitted through the objective toward the eyepiece of a microscope. The modular body supports a mirror positioned at an angle to the optical axis of the objective. A modular laser assembly is mounted on the modular body on a first side of the mirror for directing a laser beam toward the mirror so that the energy is reflected off the mirror and through the objective in a direction that is substantially aligned with the optical axis of the objective.

Abstract: The invention relates, generally, to a method of removing sharp edges from a microscope coverslip comprising grinding down the edges and polishing the edges The invention also relates to a device for determining cell motility comprising a slide, a coverslip, comprising at least one edge that has been smoothed and a chamber, created by the slide and the coverslip and which is tangential to the coverslip, such that motile cells entering the chamber are substantially undamaged. The invention also relates to a method for using the device to determine cell motility.