Modular Light Sources for Microscopy and Beyond (ModLight)

TL;DR

This paper presents modular, affordable, open-source light source designs using off-the-shelf components for microscopy and other imaging applications, enabling customizable illumination across various wavelengths.

Contribution

It introduces a flexible, low-cost modular light source system with detailed build instructions, expanding access to advanced illumination tools for diverse imaging fields.

Findings

Designs cover multiple wavelengths including near-infrared, red, green, and blue.

Uses simple components like LEDs, mirrors, and prisms for beam delivery.

Facilitates affordable and customizable illumination solutions.

Abstract

Delivering light to an object is one of the key steps in any imaging exercise. Tools such as LEDs and lasers are available to achieve this. These components are integrated into systems such as microscopy, medical imaging, remote sensing, and so many more. Motivated by the need for affordable and open access alternatives that are globally relevant, we share the designs and build instructions for modular light source devices that use simple, off-the-shelf components. Light emitted by near-infrared, red, green and blue LEDs are combined with a choice of mirrors or X-Cube prisms to deliver collimated beams of light.