FlowFlexure

An open source hardware flow imaging microscope

Overview

FlowFlexure is an open-source hardware flow imaging microscope designed for high-throughput imaging and analysis, particularly useful for plankton research. Built on the preliminary work of the OpenFlexure Project, FlowFlexure adds specialized functionality for flow imaging microscopy to serve a broader range of scientific applications. It features standard microscope optics that make it more modular and enhance image quality.

This project aims to offer a more accessible, cost-effective, and higher-quality alternative to existing systems like the PlanktoScope. We are currently at a proof-of-concept stage and welcome contributions to help move the project forward.

Features

• Flow Imaging: Advanced flow imaging capabilities for dynamic samples.
• Modular Design: Easily customize and extend functionalities.
• Standard Optics Microscope: Provides superior image quality.
• High-Quality Software : Includes advanced image processing and analysis tools.
• Cost-Effective: Easier and cheaper to manufacture than current market alternatives.

Getting Started

• Order the parts from the Bill off Material
• Print the 3D parts from the release page
• Assemble the parts as described in the manufacturing documentation

Contributing

Feel free to open an issue for bugs, feature requests, or questions. We appreciate all contributions to help improve the FlowFlexure microscope.

License

This project follows the REUSE Specification and is licensed under the following:

• Software: The GNU General Public License v3.0 Licence
• Hardware: CERN Open Hardware strongly reciprocal Licence
• Documentation: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 Licence

Acknowledgements

To all the contributors to the following open source communities for their continued support:

• OpenFlexure Project
• Planktoscope Project