Innovation in digital portable field microscope, capable of capturing images down to ten microns, is set to replace the role of the traditional laboratory microscope in industrial applications
Originally developed by Lumos Technology, the X-Loupe camera system effectively takes microscopy and reporting out of the laboratory and onto the factory floor and areas where it is most required.
Now available in the UK through distributor EC Williams, the X-Loupe camera has been hailed as a significant technical breakthrough, suitable for a whole host of engineering and manufacturing applications, such as industrial quality control and inspection of surface finishes and micro components, where it can save time, expense and help safeguard against potential errors and misconceptions.
Weighing less than 300gm, this unique concept consists of a modified Canon Ixus 65 digital camera, a Li-ion rechargeable battery module (capable of lasting a good four hours) and three interchangeable 60X, 100X to 150X lenses, which transform it into a portable digital portable field microscope.
The detachable lenses incorporate four adjustable built in white-light LEDs for dim or dark conditions, and can take micro photographs of objects with a detailed field of view as small as ten microns without relying on digital zoom.
High definition still images or video footage of objects can then be transferred to PC, laptop and made available worldwide via the internet within minutes, along with detailed technical annotations and measurements, which can be produced using the X-Loupe Image management software.
"This convenient, versatile and cost effective, pocket sized digital camera is a highly effective precision instrument with a wide range of applications on the factory floor and out in the field, enabling engineers to collect and transfer data almost instantly for immediate inspection and analysis." said Henrik Skouby, managing director of EC Williams.
