Tolerancing is often an essential step in understanding the manufacturing/assembly requirements of an optical system designed for use in medical devices. The use of optical design software for tolerancing simulations is a valuable tool for identifying the specific manufacturing/alignment errors that can be allowed and their limits. Zemax OpticStudio® is a popular optical design software […]
Several companies offer microscopes specifically designed for microfluidic applications and cell imaging. However, they are often price prohibitive and, in most cases, do not readily fit the specific requirements for a particular microfluidic application.
Optical imaging tools can enhance the crucial role of biomedical imaging in accurately identifying diseases and monitoring their progression. Conventional medical imaging devices such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and positron emission tomography (PET) are commonly used in clinical settings (Figure 1). However, these imaging modalities are limited in their […]
We recently asked our engineering and QA/RA leaders which new developments are likely to impact medical devices in the near- and long-term future. Their responses cover a variety of technology, regulatory, and supply chain activities.
Produce the most high-fidelity images and/or cleanest data possible Part 3: Types of Image Sensors Camera sensors are common components of medical devices. This blog covers various types of image sensors. Generally, image sensors consist of an array of photosensitive pixels. In typical camera applications, such sensors measure the spatial pattern of light focused by […]
Moulded plastic light guides are an inexpensive means to “pipe” light around inside a medical device. Their design process makes light guides amenable to a variety of shapes and sizes. Applications include delivering light to an indicator, a switch, or a peripheral diagnostic attachment, thus, these optical guides are an attractive technology for solving a […]
The April 29, 2021 online edition of MPO (Medical Product Outsourcing) magazine features 5 Guidelines for Productizing an Optically Based Medical Device written by Brian King, Principal Optical Systems Engineer at StarFish Medical. Sub-headed Pitfalls most relevant to optical medical devices, but many are applicable to medical devices without optics, the article highlights pitfalls most […]
In this post, I’d like to share with you a toolkit that I’ve found works quite well with both my creative process and my workflow: the Jupyter notebook, and the Python/Numpy/Scipy stack.
Make a real-time, wavelength-calibrated spectrometer using common household items. Like many others, I’m currently working from home due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Fortunately, a significant portion of my optical engineering work, such as research, modelling and design, can be done without going into the office. On the other hand, I generally avoid going into […]
StarFish Medical May 2020 Medtech Optics Issue is now online. In this issue: 8 Tips for POC diagnostic optical detection Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging Optics handling during manufacturing Approaching medical device optics projects In-Person vs. Virtual Training Careers April Images About StarFish Medical and May Medtech News Empowering Medtech Innovation® StarFish Medical is a […]
Five powerful perspectives for the Optics Laboratory Implementing medical device optics projects like a novel measurement scheme, or bringing up a breadboard prototype for the first time, is a dynamic and messy endeavour. I’d like to share five key recommendations for approaching such journeys based on my 25 years of designing and implementing laser-based measurements.
How to build a breadboard proof-of-concept system It’s advantageous, when possible, for medical techniques to be non-invasive and inexpensive. One method of imaging flow (of blood and other optically scattering media) that meets these criteria is Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI).