LabEmbryoCam
An opensource platform for automated measurement of developing animals
The LabEmbryoCam is a project originating with the EmbryoPhenomics research group at the University of Plymouth, UK. It has been made possible by support from UKRI, NERC, BBSRC and Plymouth Science Park
- The LabEmbryoCam provides:
Automated movement of a camera and lighting in the X, Y and Z direction, over prolonged periods making it well suited to recording the process of embryonic development in aquatic animals
A custom user interface for easy setup of experiments, within a multiwell plate format, but also has sufficient flexibility for other culture formats - petri dishes, or even custom culture solutions
Incorporates an optional humifidification chamber to significantly reduce evaportation thereby solving one of the key challenges of long term timelapse imaging of aquatic animals
Vibration dampening addressing vibration, the enemy of timelapse imaging. LabEmbryoCam incorporates sorbothene feet, 3D printed leafsprings and cable dampeners to minimise its effects on your imaging
A low cost, modular and versatile phenotyping platform taking advantage of 3D printed parts, single board computers, microcontrollers, stepper motors and lower cost cameras and lenses
Hackability this is an active project - if in doubt about any aspect of this instrument and its suitability to your activities, just ask
The LabEmbryoCam consists of both hardware and software, and the process of building both is described in the following series of pages.