Custom Optical Vision System for Particle Motion Analysis at Aston University

Client: Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME), Aston University
Industry: Scientific Research / Optical Instrumentation
Application: High-Resolution Particle Motion Analysis

Overview

Best Scientific successfully designed, configured, and supplied a custom optical vision system for particle motion analysis at Aston University. The system integrated advanced components including the Navitar Resolv4K Zoom System, IDS USB3 digital camera, and Starlight LED illumination, combined with the university’s existing Nikon infinity-corrected objective lenses.

Enquiry

Aston University approached us seeking expert assistance in building a high-resolution vision system tailored to their specific research needs. The Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) required a modular and precise solution for inspecting and analysing fine particle motion—leveraging existing in-house Nikon components.

Brief

The system needed to meet the following criteria:

• High magnification capable of resolving particles between 1–100μm
• Coaxial brightfield illumination for high-contrast imaging
• Video capture functionality for dynamic analysis
• Direct camera output with user-friendly software
• Retrofit mounting clamp for integration into their custom rig
• M25 thread interface for Nikon infinity objective lenses

Solution

1. Core Optical Platform: Navitar Resolv4K Zoom System We selected the Navitar Resolv4K Detented Zoom Module as the core of the system. Its detented zoom feature allows repeatable magnification settings—critical for consistent experimental results. We equipped it with an M25 objective adapter to interface seamlessly with Nikon infinity lenses.

2. Illumination System: Starlight LED10 + Coaxial Fibre To achieve bright, high-contrast coaxial illumination, we specified the Starlight LED10 light source, paired with a 1-meter fiber optic cable to minimise light loss. The LED10 is fan-cooled and rugged, ideal for laboratory environments requiring prolonged operation.

4. Digital Imaging: IDS USB3 Camera For image and motion capture, we integrated a USB3 digital camera from IDS Imaging. This model comes bundled with IDS Peak software, known for its intuitive interface and fast learning curve—enabling researchers to begin imaging immediately.
5. Mounting Solution A precision-machined 4-point mounting clamp was added to secure the optical system within the client’s existing rig. (Note: The copy stand shown in the images was used for demonstration only and not included.)

Results

The final system exceeded performance expectations, providing:

• High-resolution particle visualisation
• Seamless integration of existing Nikon objectives
• Modular expandability for future system upgrades
• A compact, lab-ready footprint

This build empowered Aston University researchers to conduct detailed motion analysis using both new and existing optical components—saving cost and maximising performance.

Conclusion

This project exemplifies our ability to deliver custom optical systems that combine cutting-edge technology with client-owned components. Our modular approach ensures flexibility, compatibility, and clarity in what your system can achieve—before you commit to a purchase.

Need Help with a Custom Optical Vision System?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading a legacy setup, Best Scientific can help. Our experts will provide a detailed consultation, ensuring full transparency on system performance—no guesswork, no surprises.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you build your next optical vision system.

Note: The Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) is funded by UKRI’s Research England as part of their Expanding Excellence in England (E3) fund

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