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We demonstrate a simple and cost-efficient scanning confocal microscope setup for use in advanced instructional physics laboratories. The setup is constructed from readily available commercial products, and the implementation of a 3D-printed flexure stage allows for further cost reduction and pedagogical opportunity. Experiments exploring the thickness of a microscope slide and the surface of solid objects with height variation are presented as foundational components of undergraduate laboratory projects and demonstrate the capabilities of a confocal microscope. This system allows observation of key components of a confocal microscope, including depth perception and data acquisition via transverse scanning, making it an excellent pedagogical resource.
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The Visible Microscope
The Visible Microscope is inspired by the OpenFlexure microscope. The Open Flexure microscope is a laboratory-grade microscope constructed using 3D printed parts and a single-board computer that is widely used in research laboratories internationally (Sharkey, Foo, Kabla, Baumberg & Bowman, 2016). The Visible Microscope is an adapted version of the Open Flexure microscope designed for K-12 schools.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2229627
- PAR ID:
- 10559900
- Publisher / Repository:
- National Technology Leadership Society
- Date Published:
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Location:
- Charlottesville, Virginia
- Institution:
- University of Virginia School of Education & Human Development
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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