OpenMIC: a DIY twelve slides scanner microscope with evolutive and multimodal capabilities

Abstract

Microscopy is essential in academic and medical research, driving the quest for cost-effective solutions. Inspired by modified 3D printers, these innovations enable the scanning of 2D and 3D samples, leveraging affordability and three-dimensional movement. In the realm of multimodal imaging, LED panels and LCD screens offer adaptable lighting options, balancing cost, ergonomics, and image quality remains a formidable challenge. Introducing OpenMIC, a groundbreaking solution seamlessly integrating multiple scanning features and multimodal lighting. Transformed from a 3D printer using a Raspberry Pi 4, a 64x64 LED array, and an optical module, it offers four lighting modalities, micrometric autofocus, focus stacking, image stitching, and automated scanning of 12 histological slides. OpenMIC is marked by its scalability, professional imaging quality, and a manufacturing cost under 4,000 euros.